Meet our team

Antione Cartez, Ed.S

Founder

Antione Pickens-Cartez is a visionary educator, transformational leader, and the founder of CANDU Education Partners LLC.

Driven by his belief that education should empower, reflect, and transform, Antione created CANDU to deliver high-impact, culturally responsive professional development that centers wellness, leadership, and equity. His work combines practical classroom experience with radical vision, challenging school systems to rethink outdated practices and rebuild education from the inside out.

Through CANDU, Antione partners with schools and districts to provide dynamic workshops, leadership retreats, and mentorship programs that leave a lasting impact on educators and students alike. He is especially passionate about literacy, culturally connected teaching, and developing educators as the frontline leaders of educational justice.

A product of Saint Louis schools and a lifelong learner, Antione is committed to building the future of education—one teacher, one classroom, and one courageous conversation at a time.

Benjamin Thistlewood

Design Director

Benjamin s a visionary Creative Director with a passion for crafting compelling concepts and visuals that drive impact. With extensive experience in branding, design, and storytelling, he specializes in bringing ideas to life through innovative visuals that help CANDU and other professionals thrive. Whether shaping brand identities, developing marketing strategies, or creating immersive visual experiences, Benjamin blends creativity with strategic thinking to inspire engagement and success. His work not only enhances aesthetics but also amplifies purpose, making every project a powerful tool for growth and connection.