Story & Lesson Highlights with Akissi Stokes-Nelson of Stone Mountain

Akissi Stokes-Nelson shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.

Good morning Akissi, we’re so happy to have you here with us and we’d love to explore your story and how you think about life and legacy and so much more. So let’s start with a question we often ask: Have any recent moments made you laugh or feel proud?
Recently, I had the honor of being hosted as an international guest at the 2025 Costa Rica Trade & Investment Summit. The cofounder and I felt deeply proud to represent our company, our country, and our state in the emerging agri-food sector — and with insects, no less! It was truly inspiring to connect with over 400 international investors, exporters, and buyers across 45 countries.

Experiencing Costa Rica firsthand was especially meaningful; I’ve followed and admired this beautiful country for years, particularly for its unwavering commitment to innovation, sustainability, and well-being — both for society and the environment. Its leadership in policies and regreening initiatives continue to set a powerful example worldwide.

We are genuinely grateful that our dedication and the meaningful relationships we’ve cultivated over the years have elevated us and our company onto a truly global stage. It was a memorable and heartfelt experience that reaffirmed our passion and purpose.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I am Akissi Stokes-Nelson, a versatile and results-oriented leader with over 25 years of experience integrating technology, strategic project management, and community-focused initiatives to foster organizational growth and social impact with companies such as Xerox, Inc., Northrop Grumman, Federal Reserve Board of Governors, Atlanta Housing Authority, and the Carter Center, Inc. My expertise spans managing large-scale federal grants, environmental programs, and innovative ventures in sustainability and food security, with a dedicated focus on empowering underexposed communities through skills development and economic opportunities.

As the CEO and Cofounder of WunderGrubs, Inc. alongside my husband, I lead a pioneering food-grade insect production company committed to sustainable farming, food security, and alternative proteins. Her entrepreneurial efforts have garnered recognition and awards, including the Black Women in Food Innovator Award, and Startup Disruptor Award, plus multiple invitations to speak at prominent conferences and TEDx Atlanta Women.

Founded in 2016, WunderGrubs is pioneering sustainable agricultural solutions through innovative insect based technologies. By harnessing the natural efficiency of insects such as mealworms, our systems convert organic waste into high-value products, including animal feed, organic fertilizers, and protein sources. WunderGrubs is currently expanding its WunderGrow program, enabling urban farmers to produce natural fertilizer, and small livestock feed supplements through efficient mealworm micro-farming systems.

Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What was your earliest memory of feeling powerful?
My earliest memories of feeling truly powerful come from spending time with my grandfather on his farm. I vividly remember digging my hand into the warm, rich, black fertile soil of Southern Georgia, carefully creating a tiny opening for a small seed. That simple act connected me deeply to the energy of the earth. Watching a seedling burst through the surface and grow into a fruit or vegetable was nothing short of magical.

There was an incredible sense of empowerment in knowing that I held the ability to nurture and create nourishment for my body with my own hands. In that moment, I realized I possessed a special kind of strength — a connection to life, growth, and the earth itself. Those memories remain a heartfelt reminder of the power I carry within.

If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
If I could say one kind thing to my younger self, it would be, “the universe has already provided you what you need, just ask, know, and wait.”

Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. Whom do you admire for their character, not their power?
My husband

Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. What light inside you have you been dimming?
The light I’ve been gently dimming within myself since I was a young child is, without a doubt, my talent as an artist—something I’ve set aside in favor of my previous professional career. Just the other day, I was telling my mom that I now feel a renewed commitment to nurture and embrace the artist inside me once more, especially during this new chapter of my life. It’s a beautiful reminder to honor the passions that make my soul come alive.

Contact Info:

• Website: https:/www.wundergrubs.com
• Instagram: https:/www.instagram.com/wundergrubs
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/akissi-stokes-nelson-832a822/ and https://www.linkedin.com/company/wundergrubs
• Facebook: https:/www.facebook.com/wundergrubs

Image Credits
Karim Nelson, Dequiandra Fradkin