Meet the cohorts

Jenelle is an environmental scientist, policy strategist, and emerging leader whose work sits at the intersection of ecology, community engagement, and equity. She holds a Master of Science in Environmental Science — Policy, Planning, Communication and Society from SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (2025), and a Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry with concentrations in Environmental Studies and German Studies from the College of Wooster. Her academic journey also took her to Freie Universität Berlin, where she deepened her global perspective on environmental systems and policy.

Her professional experience spans governance, research, and education. As Chair of the Youth Board of Directors for the United States Biosphere Network, she leads grant writing, facilitates youth engagement strategy, and contributes to organizational decision-making at the highest level. As a Strategic Consultant for the Champlain-Adirondack Biosphere Network, she conducted a comprehensive analysis, led expert interviews across two biosphere regions, and presented findings that directly informed the Network's strategic planning process.

Recently she also served as Instructional Support Staff at the Cranberry Lake Biological Station, where she supported academic operations, and led student orientation sessions centered on community building and inclusion.

Jenelle is a scientist, a connector, and a committed advocate for a more equitable and inclusive relationship between people and the natural world.

Immersion in nature brings me clarity and alertness to all the possibilities of life, and integrates me into the bigger picture. I was born and raised in Indianapolis, and grew up in the 70s and 80s, as a helper to my father during his days of political activism. I studied journalism and English at Indiana University Bloomington, and started out in museum communications in Chicago, before changing careers in 2000. I earned a Ph.D. at the University of Washington in Seattle, and was transformed when I discovered hiking in the Pacific Northwest. In my current role as a professor of English at SUNY Oswego, I focus on historical literature by women and people of color. My husband is a native of Rochester. He introduced me to the Adirondacks, and we held our wedding at Covewood Lodge. We are always looking for chances to fully embrace both the natural environment, and those we meet there. We really found our people when we stumbled upon the Black Birders programs organized by the Adirondack Diversity Initiative. Lately, I’ve become interested in how historical sites and buildings are getting better at telling truthful and impactful stories about the lives and actions of the people who came before us, so we can have better examples for how we in the present can use our power in more meaningful, healthful ways.

I am Pavi’Elle Veloure Ayabah Hamilton, a mother, community and healthcare access professional, student, and wellness practitioner entering a powerful season of reinvention.

My current path was shaped by a decision to choose myself. What began as a commitment to self love grew into a deeper journey of healing, self discovery, and true self awareness. That journey has empowered me to become more intentional about the life I am building, the example I am setting for my daughter, and the impact I want to make within my community.

My professional experience includes direct patient care, patient access, care coordination, and community based resource navigation. Through this work, I have supported individuals and families as they navigate barriers to care, understand their options, and move through systems that can often feel overwhelming or impersonal. These experiences continue to strengthen my commitment to compassionate, culturally responsive, whole person healthcare.

I am pursuing dual degrees in Healthcare Management and Leadership while building a future in healthcare administration and management. I hope to help shape systems that value efficiency and access while also embracing mindfulness, wellness, natural healing perspectives, and evidence based care.

Katrina Hodge, M.S. is a public servant, community leader, and advocate for equity, inclusion, and civic engagement. Originally from Baltimore, Maryland, and raised in Howard County, she is a first-generation college graduate dedicated to creating opportunities and fostering meaningful community connections.

Katrina serves as the EEO Compliance Officer for the City of Albany, where she supports equitable workplace practices and helps advance initiatives that promote fairness, accountability, and employee engagement. She also serves as Staff Administrator to the City of Albany Human Rights Commission, supporting efforts that strengthen trust and inclusion throughout the community.

Prior to joining the City of Albany, Katrina spent four years at SUNY Cortland in leadership roles focused on student success, multicultural engagement, and diversity initiatives. Through her work, she developed programs, cultivated partnerships, and supported the growth and development of students from diverse backgrounds. A passionate community builder, Katrina serves as Director of Community Impact and Intelligence for Albany Professionals Under 40 & Friends, helping connect emerging leaders and professionals across New York’s Capital Region. She has collaborated with nonprofits, educational institutions, government agencies, and community organizations to promote civic engagement, leadership development, and community empowerment.

Katrina holds a Master of Science in General Management from Elmira College, a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a minor in Criminal Justice from Chowan University, and a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Certificate from Cornell University. She remains committed to public service, leadership, and creating lasting positive impact in the communities she serves.

Tamika Hudson is a licensed mental health therapist, consultant, and founder whose work centers on helping women heal at the root. She believes lasting transformation begins by identifying and unlearning the patterns, beliefs, and core wounds that shape how we show up in our relationships, leadership, and daily lives.

Her practice is grounded in the understanding that when one woman heals, the impact extends far beyond the individual. Many of the women she serves are leaders, professionals, educators, healthcare providers, and caregivers whose personal growth influences the families, teams, organizations, and communities they lead. By supporting the individual, she contributes to healthier systems and stronger communities.

In addition to her clinical work, Tamika enjoys mentoring and consulting with therapists who are building sustainable, values-driven private practices. Having navigated the challenges of entrepreneurship herself, she provides practical guidance, encouragement, and tools that help clinicians confidently develop practices aligned with both their purpose and professional goals.

Whether in the therapy room, through consultation, or in community, Tamika is passionate about creating spaces where healing, leadership, and faith intersect. Her work reflects a commitment to helping people live with greater authenticity, resilience, and purpose while equipping others to multiply that impact in the lives they touch.

Liechelle Hernandez is a nonprofit leader, facilitator, and community builder dedicated to developing leaders and strengthening the social impact sector. Born and raised in New York City, she has built her career at the intersection of nonprofit management, leadership development, education, and community engagement, creating opportunities for individuals and organizations to grow, connect, and lead with purpose.

As a Program Manager at the Institute for Nonprofit Practice, Liechelle oversees leadership development programs that support nonprofit, public sector, and social impact leaders nationwide. She manages fellowship operations, coordinates large-scale retreats and events, supports faculty and executive coaches, and helps create meaningful learning experiences that advance equitable leadership practices.

As a Black woman, Liechelle is passionate about creating spaces where people feel seen, valued, and empowered to lead authentically. Her leadership is grounded in community, service, and the belief that representation matters. She is committed to helping others navigate systems that have not always been designed with equity in mind and believes that investing in people is one of the most powerful ways to create lasting change.

Liechelle holds a Master of Public Administration with concentrations in Education Policy and Nonprofit Management and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Citizenship & Civic Engagement from Syracuse University. Outside of her professional work, Liechelle enjoys traveling, exploring new cultures, attending live performances, spending time with family and friends, and discovering new experiences that inspire connection, joy, and personal growth.

Nekia C. Kemp, M.S. With over 25 years of experience in Buffalo’s human services and education sectors, Nekia Kemp is a Strategic Architect for Social Impact. As the founder of KIA Strategy Consulting LLC, she leverages her executive background to help organizations balance fiscal discipline, board governance, and human capital.

Currently, as the Executive Director of the Police Athletic League (PAL) of Buffalo, Nekia transforms non-profit missions into measurable community outcomes. She holds an M.S. in Executive Leadership & Innovation from Daemen University and a B.A. in Health & Human Services. She also earned a Not-for-Profit Management certificate from the Harvard Business School Club of Buffalo, utilizing this rigorous framework to scale organizations and optimize leadership structures.

A recognized authority in Western New York, Nekia serves on high-stakes boards, including the New York State Network for Youth Success, the Collaborative Center for Social Innovation, and the Project Play WNY Advisory Board.

Her professional excellence has been validated by prestigious honors, such as being named a 2025 Buffalo Black Icon and receiving the 2025 Buffalo Business First Women of Influence Award. These join accolades like the NFL’s "Inspire Change Community Changemaker" award and a mayoral proclamation declaring April 12, 2024, as “Nekia Kemp Day.” Fueled by personal resilience after losing her eldest child to cancer in 2009, Nekia turned her grief into a mandate to serve youth and families. Through her consulting work, she empowers leaders to build sustainable, equitable legacies.

Joneal Labeach holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a minor in Criminology, as well as a Master’s degree in Forensic Psychology. Throughout most of her adult career, Joneal has worked in the mental and behavioral health field, supporting children, youth, and families through some of life’s most challenging circumstances. She is deeply passionate about helping young people recognize their strengths, build resilience, and achieve their goals. Her work has allowed her to combine her natural empathy, curiosity, and problem-solving skills with her desire to make a positive difference in the lives of others.

In addition to her work in behavioral health, Joneal is a licensed New York real estate salesperson who enjoys helping individuals and families navigate one of the most important milestones of their lives: homeownership. She finds great fulfillment in guiding clients through the buying and selling process and celebrating with them when they achieve their real estate goals.

Joneal is also the founder and owner of The Coily Company, a haircare brand created to celebrate and care for naturally coily and textured hair. Inspired by her Jamaican heritage, The Coily Co. incorporates Caribbean influences throughout its products, from carefully selected ingredients to the scents and overall customer experience. Her vision is to provide effective, high-quality haircare solutions while honoring the beauty, culture, and traditions that shaped her own journey.

Known for her warm personality, sense of humor, and ability to connect with people from all walks of life, Joneal brings positive energy, authenticity, and enthusiasm into every room she enters. She is naturally curious, highly driven, and constantly seeking opportunities to learn, grow, and challenge herself. Whether she is supporting families, building a business, helping clients purchase homes, or creating community connections, she approaches every endeavor with determination, compassion, and a genuine desire to make a lasting impact. When she’s not working, Joneal enjoys spending time with friends and family, spending time in nature, golfing, traveling, and exploring new experiences.

Marketa McCants (formerly known as Marketa Edwards) is an abolitionist, transformative community organizer, and accomplished chef who turns societal challenges into pathways for empowerment. Drawing from her firsthand experiences with family separation, homelessness, and economic hardship, she has become a dedicated advocate for individuals and families confronting systemic barriers.

Her activist work spans partnerships with influential organizations including the Katal Center for Health, Equity and Justice, College & Community Fellowship, and the New York State Coalition Against Sexual Assault. Through these collaborations, Mrs. McCants champions reform in mass incarceration, housing accessibility, and family preservation policies.

In 2021, she broadened her impact by running for Troy's District 6 City Council seat and now serves as Co-chair of the Working Families Party Capital Region Chapter. As Co-founder and Executive Director of The Community Rising Project, she leads initiatives supporting those affected by the criminal justice system. The Community Rising Project works alongside multiple organizations across New York State and co-founded the LEX NYS Collaborative to address systemic issues within child welfare/policing systems.

Through her comprehensive approach to social justice, Marketa McCants builds stronger, more equitable communities—creating lasting change one person at a time.

Alexa Joan Givens Wajed is a multi-faceted individual, simultaneously operating as an Executive Director of a Not-For-Profit (https://www.cultruelife.org), Co-founder of a notable arts-based creative consulting company, jewelry designer and certified chef (https://www.eatoffart.com). She is also a proud mother to two multi-talented creative sons, as well as a wife and business partner to an artist.

A powerhouse artrepreneur, recently recognized by Buffalo Business First as a Community Impact Awardee. Alexa is a creative strategist and consultant who turns creativity into community, ideas into action, and art into a way of living, all strung together with her capacity to display grace and empathy at every step. She focuses on prioritizing healing, with balanced sharp business strategy, empowering others to eat off art while shaping spaces with intention (studios, workshops, expos, nonprofits) that create moments of transformative experiences. Alexa makes the work feel possible, beautiful, and joyful; using all of her innate passions, tools and practices from cooking, to visual art, jewelry, etc. to create opportunities for others to pursue versions of their highest selves.

Dionne Williamson was born and raised in Western New York and continues to proudly call it home. With a lifelong passion for design and a deep appreciation for the power of creating safe, beautiful spaces, she feels a true calling to use her gifts to uplift others and improve lives through design.

She is the Executive Director and Founder of UPward Design for Life (UDFL), a nonprofit organization dedicated to restoring hope by transforming empty spaces into homes for individuals and families transitioning out of homelessness, domestic violence survivors, veterans, and young adults who have aged out of foster care throughout Erie and Niagara Counties.

Dionne launched UDFL from her home in 2017 with a vision to merge her love for design with a pressing community need. Since then, the organization has transformed more than 170 empty spaces into warm, welcoming homes—restoring hope, dignity, and independence for individuals rebuilding their lives.

A community-driven and servant-hearted leader, Dionne has spent many years serving on local boards and volunteering with grassroots organizations, supporting causes ranging from domestic violence advocacy to neighborhood revitalization. She remains deeply engaged and hands-on in her work, connecting directly with those she serves. Each month, she also finds joy in reading to children at a local bookstore.

In her “free time,” she enjoys yoga, meditation, spending time with family and dear friends, working in her yard with her hands in the soil, and simply appreciating nature and the beauty that surrounds us every day—beauty we often overlook in the rush of being “busy.” Dionne is a proud wife to a supportive husband and mother to two incredible daughters, an amazing son, and dog mom to Egypt, affectionately known as Golden Graham.

Tylah Worrell is a passionate connector and community investor, dedicated to instilling hope and fostering self-actualization through the promotion of economic equity. With a mission to pave the way for financial freedom and stability, she creates meaningful connections and implements initiatives that dismantle barriers to opportunity.

As a strong leader and Executive Director of the Urban Jobs Task Force of Syracuse, Tylah actively empowers individuals and communities to pursue sustainable growth and prosperity. Alongside her commitment to social equity, she is also a New York State licensed real estate agent, utilizing her skills to further invest in and uplift her community.

Tylah blends her professional acumen with a personal touch, nurturing relationships that inspire collaboration and action. Her work is characterized by an unwavering belief in the potential of others, which motivates her to advocate for equitable access to opportunities and resources.

With a warm and engaging approach, Tylah continuously seeks to expand her connections and knowledge, striving to inspire those around her. Through her leadership, she is committed to creating a more just and inclusive future for all.

I am Diania Breakenridge and a proud mother of two beautiful young ladies. I enjoy staying active through exercise including hiking, and volunteering in a local non-profit organization. There is something to say about nature, the wonderment of it, from the skies, to the trees, to the sunlight peeking through, to the hidden animals or the chirping birds; it is simply amazing.

I was born on the beautiful island of Jamaica and migrated to the States in my teens. I became an empty-nester a couple of years ago and after experiencing some challenges after my youngest left home for college and the unexpected passing of my mother a year later, I am now on a better path thanks to my unwavering faith. I am ready for additional growth and development while seeking ways to help those who need it. I enjoy writing to inspire and encourage others, and I have found that in doing so, I also inspire myself.

I believe that we all have a shared purpose and that is to help each other. The help that we may offer will look different from one person to another, and so it will be packaged and delivered according to the needs of the receiver. In addition to our shared purpose, we also have other purposes to fulfill in this life. It is my desire to fulfill the purposes for my life while I am here, to give and share all that I was provided to give and share, and I am thankful for the opportunity that affords me to do so.

Laila Hernandez is a dedicated community leader as a Deputy Director of a nonprofit organization, the American Civic Association. Her experience and expertise in working in the immigration nonprofit sector drives her passion for social change.

Laila’s career has spanned roles in leadership, immigration, Refugee Resettlement, and Internship Program Coordination. Her ability to help drive strategic initiatives has helped the American Civic Association in transforming vulnerable immigrant communities one project at a time. Her work at the American Civic Association has earned her the Pillar of Community Award from the Latin American and Caribbean Studies department of Binghamton University, where she earned her undergraduate degree.

Laila is a two-time Alumna of Binghamton University and holds a Master’s in Public Administration.

Hope Isom is a locally and nationally recognized Funeral Director, violence prevention strategist, and CEO with over 30 years of transformative service to youth, families, and underserved communities. As Founder of Hope Program Inc., H.I. Enterprises Consultant, and host of Voices of Hope Radio, she has built trauma-informed platforms that blend public health, education, and social advocacy, amplifying stories of survival into blueprints for leadership and legacy.

Her lived experience as a community first responder, businesswoman, and advocate fuels her commitment to interrupting cycles of violence through culturally grounded, evidence-based

solutions. Hope designed and facilitated “Building Safer Classrooms Together”—a New York State-certified violence prevention course for educators that promotes emotional safety, crisis intervention, and restorative culture in schools. She also leads H.I. Enterprises Consultant, where she equips nonprofits and corporations with customized crisis management and engagement strategies.

A graduate of SUNY Canton (Mortuary Science) and Bryant & Stratton College (Medical Assisting), Hope was featured in WNY Black Magazine’s Women to Watch and honored with the Outstanding Service in the Community Award by Travelers Insurance for her emergency response following the Tops Market mass shooting tragedy. A featured speaker for Dare to Dream, My Brother’s Keeper, and the Roswell Cancer Institute-Mayor’s Summer Youth Enrichment Program. Whether guiding youth through healing or helping leaders reimagine safety, Hope Isom ensures that every voice is heard, and every life is valued—because she believes youth should not just overcome adversity but THRIVE.

My name is Brittany Lane, and I am a 36-year-old woman who is learning to usher in time dedicated to healing and transformation. I love hard and advocate even harder for people who need a helping hand. I was born and raised in Rocky Mount, VA, and in my spare time, I enjoy traveling, spending time with my spouse and special circle, and being anywhere that's surrounded by water.

Lisa Marie Newcomb was born and raised in Syracuse, NY, and is a wellness practitioner and healing-centered leader whose work is rooted in transformation and collective care.

Lisa is the founder of Thrive in Healing, a wellness initiative grounded in trauma-informed, accessible, and culturally responsive care. She is also the co-founder of The Syracuse Yoga Collective, a membership-based community of nine BIPOC wellness practitioners who practice shared leadership and mutual support.

With certifications in trauma-informed yoga and meditation and a background in social work, Lisa bridges clinical training with lived experience. She has supported families through crises as a caseworker with the Department of Children and Family Services, facilitated trauma-responsive programming for youth, trained educators and professionals in wellness practices, and helped systems leaders adopt equity-centered approaches.

Lisa knows firsthand the toll of burnout and speaks openly about the importance of boundaries, asking for help, and collective rest. She believes that recovery takes as much care as the labor that led to exhaustion. For her, healing-centered leadership is not about perfection but about presence, reflection, and accountability.

Lisa creates spaces where people can bring their full selves, without having to shrink or translate their experience.

Rene Petties-Jones is the President and CEO of the National Federation for Just Communities of WNY, Inc. and a member of the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo’s Racial Equity Roundtable. She is Immediate Past Co-Chair for the National PRSA (Public Relations Society of America) DEI Committee and serves on the PRSA Northeast District Board of Directors as their first ever DEI Officer. Rene is currently Chair of the Board of Directors for the National Federation for Just Communities, an independent 501c(3) federation serving affiliates from across the country and internationally; the first African American woman to hold this position.

A proud University at Buffalo Alum, Rene has received the May C. Randazzo Outstanding Practitioner Award and the Board of Directors Distinguished Service Award from PRSA Buffalo Niagara, and the Women of Influence Award, Behind the Scenes, from Buffalo Business First. She is also on the Business First Power 200 Buffalo list for 2021,2022, 2023, 2024 and 2025. Rene is on the inaugural Power 100 Business Leaders of Color list and the same list for 2023, 2024, also from Business First. She was recently awarded the Racial Relationship Building/Equity and Justice Award from the City of Buffalo. Additionally, she is a Rockwood Institute Fellow, Oishei Leaders of Color Fellow, an FBI Citizens Academy graduate, a graduate of Harvard University Advancing Women of Color Leadership program, and a former member of the Commission on PR Education Research Panel.

Rene currently sits on the Superintendent Advisory Board for the Williamsville School District, the Alberti Center for Bullying Prevention, Shea's Buffalo HR Committee, the President’s Advisory Council for Buffalo State University in addition to numerous other committees and advisory boards.

Monique Ferguson Riley, MBA Founder & CEO | Freedom Youth Family Justice Center Inc. Minister | Advocate | Change Maker

Monique Ferguson Riley is the visionary Founder and CEO of Freedom Youth Family Justice Center Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting survivors of human trafficking, sexual assault, and domestic violence. With a strong focus on youth, families, and underserved communities, Monique has built a trauma-informed movement that delivers holistic wraparound services, survivor-led programming, and critical advocacy across New York City and Westchester County.

Holding a Master of Business Administration (MBA), Monique applies strategic leadership, operational excellence, and social impact innovation to every initiative she leads. Under her guidance, FYFJC has grown into a trusted community anchor, providing crisis housing coordination, peer support, court advocacy, youth mentorship, and survivor empowerment programs that foster long-term healing and independence.

In addition to her nonprofit leadership, Monique is a devoted minister, called to serve through faith, purpose, and community transformation. Her ministry work is deeply integrated into her mission to help individuals break cycles of abuse, discover their identity, and walk in wholeness.

Known for her bold advocacy and lived-experience insight, Monique continues to be a powerful voice for justice, healing, and equity.

Kadashea Smith, a proud native of Syracuse, NY, is a dedicated mother to a spirited 11-year-old son and a passionate advocate for her community. A graduate of the Syracuse City School District — let’s go Cougars! — Kadashea grew up on the South Side of Syracuse, where she discovered a deep love for nature through summer camps for inner-city youth and cherished family camping trips. Today, she finds joy in recreating those traditions with her son.

For the past decade, Kadashea has worked to develop programs that empower individuals with disabilities, helping them to live fuller, more integrated lives. She holds an Associate’s degree in Healthcare Administration and Management from Bryant & Stratton College and is currently pursuing her Bachelor’s in Public Health at Capella University, with a focus on community innovation and organizing.

In addition to her professional and academic pursuits, Kadashea serves as the Cheer Coordinator for the Geddes Westvale Knights, an inner-city cheerleading program for children ages 3–14. Let's go Knights! She is also an executive board member of Families for Lead Freedom Now, a grassroots advocacy group fighting against childhood lead poisoning in Syracuse. Through this work, she helps lead efforts to educate the community, demand legislative accountability, and secure medical, educational, and environmental remediation for lead-affected families both locally and nationwide.

Kadashea Smith is a rising force in public health and community engagement, committed to building a healthier, more equitable Syracuse for future generations.

Elder Melody R. Smith Johnson is a Central New York transplant from Harlem, New York. She is a proud wife, mother, grandmother, ordained minister, award-winning entrepreneur, social justice activist, philanthropist and tenacious servant leader dedicated to empowering women and uplifting communities of color. As Founder & CEO of “The Initiative” a non-profit organization, she works to empower the dreams of young women of color through scholarships, mentorship, and entrepreneurship coaching and since its founding in 2016, has awarded more than $90,000 in college scholarships to Black and Brown young women in the United States.

She is a 25+ year HR professional who has worked with businesses to create, develop and lead organization-wide initiatives that are culturally sensitive and designed to strategically position themselves as employers of choice in the marketplace.

In July 2022, she opened Melody’s, the first co-working, intimate event, and retail space owned by a Black woman in Auburn, NY. Melody’s is where female entrepreneurs are embraced to elevate and master the skill of living their wildest dreams. It is the base for her work as an advising partner with the WISE WBC, connecting women business owners and entrepreneurs in Cayuga County to an ecosystem of business counseling, education, resource referrals, and networking services.

Elder Melody holds a Bachelor's in Political Science & Psychology, a Master's in Theology, and a Master of Science in Management. She sits on several nonprofit, workforce and economic development Boards as well as holds memberships with and supports local and national initiatives designed to create and increase access and equity for Black and Brown people.