Meet the Team
At Vision to Venture, we're more than dreamers; we're architects of potential.
We're building bridges to a brighter tomorrow, a thriving community where entrepreneurs aren't just nurtured; they're ignited!
Director - Founder, Mentor, Investor, and
OCD Enthusiast
W Michael Buckovich
W. Michael Buckovich serves as Executive Director of VisionToVenture.org, where he leads initiatives to strengthen North Carolina’s entrepreneurial ecosystem and accelerate small-business creation. Under his direction, Vision to Venture has recently partnered with Greater Winston-Salem Inc., Winston Starts, SPARQ @ Innovation Quarter, Center for Creative Economy (Kinetic and Velocity Programs), and other innovation-driven organizations to help idea/early-stage founders to validate concepts, connect to resources, and de-risk their businesses before and after seeking capital.
A veteran of over 30 years in digital strategy, marketing, and software development, Mike has developed and implemented customer-experience and product strategies for Fortune 500 firms and emerging startups from Chicago and New York to Washington, Richmond, and the Carolinas.
By connecting entrepreneurs, educators, investors, and civic leaders, he is helping position North Carolina as a national model for how inclusive entrepreneurship drives job creation, community vitality, and long-term economic resilience.
Director of Community Development and Events
Kami Leslie
Cross-functional and resilient director, Kami has 25+ years of experience working internationally in live entertainment, special events, and education as a producer, executive director, event manager, and facilitator.
She worked for large corporations such as Cirque du Soleil, Franco Dragone, and MGM, as well as for non-for-profit organizations worldwide.
Her unconventional profile reflects upon her desire to connect the incompatible and build bridges between Entrepreneurs, Creativity, Innovation, and Business opportunities.
She is passionate about activating and nurturing communities empowering entrepreneurs to realize their dreams.
Programming and Events Manager
Anna Brayman
Anna Brayman brings a dynamic blend of creativity, organization, and community spirit to her role as Programming and Events Manager at Vision to Venture.
With a background in performing arts and event management, she has developed a deep appreciation for collaboration, storytelling, and creating meaningful experiences — skills she now channels into supporting entrepreneurs and innovators across Winston-Salem.
Currently pursuing her MFA in Production and Project Management at UNC School of the Arts, Anna is passionate about projects that connect people, spark creativity, and strengthen the local community.