In every city, there are those who shine—and then there are those who ignite entire communities. Pageant B. Atterberry is undeniably the latter. As the owner and powerhouse behind New Beginnings Child Care and Academy (NBCCA), she has redefined early childhood education not just in Detroit, but across the nation.
Since its founding by her family in 1996, NBCCA has grown into a gold standard of early education. With seven flourishing locations and government-contracted sites in Michigan, Chicago, and Los Angeles, Ms. Atterberry’s reach is both vast and deeply intentional. Her commitment to fostering academic excellence, emotional intelligence, and inclusivity has transformed the lives of over 900 students currently enrolled—and countless more over the years.
But Ms. Atterberry’s brilliance doesn’t stop at traditional education. A licensed autism specialist, she is the visionary behind The Atterberry School of Autism, which serves children ages 2–5 through innovative practices like Applied Behavior Analysis and her own pioneering “Roam and Grow” learning model. It’s not just about teaching—it’s about empowering every child to flourish on their own terms.
Her dedication to education extends into workforce development, with more than a decade-long partnership with Wayne County Community College District. She’s personally helped create pipelines for aspiring educators to gain real-world experience at NBCCA, obtain credentials, and secure lasting careers. Her efforts with the Detroit Mayor’s Office of Early Learning and the Michigan Educator Workforce Initiative demonstrate her deep commitment to both quality education and economic mobility.
Ms. Atterberry is also the founder of PBA Training Performing Arts and Sports School, a dynamic institution that has introduced more than 6,500 youth to dance, cheer, music, acting, and media production. Through strategic collaborations with public school districts, nonprofits, and major cultural institutions, she has ensured youth across multiple states have access to enrichment and inspiration.
Her brilliance extends far beyond the classroom. A former political journalist, she has served at the highest levels—including work with The White House, the Pentagon, and The Nation’s Capital during the Obama administration. Her civic leadership includes board service with the Urban League of Detroit and Southeast Michigan, advocacy for women in politics, and support for vulnerable families through generous philanthropy featured on Fox 2 News, CBS, and The Detroit Free Press.
And while her resume commands respect, her personal style turns heads. Pageant Atterberry is a true fashionista, known for her impeccable taste and sophisticated aesthetic. Whether she’s attending a gala, appearing on stage, or walking through her academies, she effortlessly balances bold elegance with understated luxury. From classic silhouettes and high-end designer pieces to emerging Black-owned brands, Ms. Atterberry’s wardrobe is a reflection of her essence: powerful, polished, and unapologetically feminine. Her eye for detail and love of fashion make her not only a business leader but a style icon whose presence captivates any room she enters.
Honored with accolades such as Forbes 30 Under 30 Fellow, Detroit’s Best in Black, Millennial Mogul, and Spirit of Detroit Award, Ms. Atterberry is a name that commands respect. She’s been lauded by Governor Gretchen Whitmer, celebrated in HOUR Magazine as a “Person to Know,” and welcomed into prestigious programs like the Forbes Women Forum and Forbes Businesses on the Rise.
A graduate of the University of Detroit Mercy with a master’s from the University of Michigan and executive credentials from Harvard, she is currently completing a master’s in Economics and a Doctorate in Education. Her journey is a testament to what happens when brilliance meets purpose—and when excellence is delivered with elegance.
Her motto says it all: “Let no one outsmart you. Ever.” And with everything she’s achieved—and continues to build—there’s no question: no one ever will.
