I am deeply committed to being a voice for every chapter and every member within NABJ. I understand the vital importance of listening to diverse perspectives and fostering a sense of community. My passion lies in enhancing professional development opportunities for all chapters and empowering our chapter presidents with essential leadership skills. My three core goals are to cultivate the next generation of NABJ leaders, boost program engagement, and strengthen communication between chapters and the board. Together, we can create an inclusive environment where every member feels valued and empowered to thrive in their careers and contribute to our mission.
As a dedicated member of NABJ, and a proven leader. I've been deeply committed to the growth and success of our association, particularly as president of the New York Chapter of NABJ. There, I have been not just a leader; a facilitator, fostering an environment where every voice is heard and valued. I led my chapter to Chapter of the Year, a testament to our collective strength and determination.
My journey hasn't been about awards or recognition, but about action. I understood the importance of keeping our members informed, not just of association news, but of relevant industry trends and opportunities. Through the launch of a slack channel which now has over 350 members in attendance, the launching of a podcast, The Sidebar by NYABJ, and NYABJ Pulse, both aimed at engaging our members, fostering dialogue, and giving our members the opportunity to boost their resumes, and grow their skills. These initiatives doubled our chapter membership, proving that when we invest in our members, we invest in our future.
I understand the challenges facing our association, the critical importance of strong local chapters, and the need to amplify the voices of all our members. As National Secretary, I will ensure every chapter receives the support it needs, building bridges and fostering collaboration. I will dedicate myself to strengthening communication between chapters and the board, ensuring all voices are heard and understood. My commitment extends to empowering the next generation of NABJ leaders. This isn't just a role; it's a responsibility to ensure that the voice of Black journalism remains strong, vibrant, and influential. I ask for your vote, not just as a candidate, but as a fellow advocate. Let's work together to build an even stronger, more impactful NABJ.
As President of the New York Association of Black Journalists, I am proud to share that our chapter was named NABJ Chapter of the Year in 2024, a milestone achievement that reflects our dedication, growth, and commitment to excellence. This recognition is especially meaningful because it marks the first time since 2013 that NYABJ has received this honor.
Additionally, in 2023, our chapter was a finalist, demonstrating our consistent efforts to elevate Black journalism, foster community, and create impactful programs. Leading NYABJ through these accomplishments has been an inspiring journey, and I am grateful for the hard work and passion of our members who make this possible.
This recognition not only celebrates our past successes but also fuels our ongoing commitment to empowering Black journalists and amplifying diverse voices across New York and beyond. Thank you for your support as we continue to strive for excellence and make a meaningful difference in our industry.
As Director of the NY Association of Black Journalists’ First Take Journalism Program, I am proud to have doubled the number of applicants and significantly increased our scholarship funds, allowing us to expand our reach and impact.
In collaboration with the Department of Education, I helped share the program with over 500 students, opening new pathways for aspiring young journalists. Working closely with my co-director, we reviewed more than 100 applications, conducted interviews, and organized a dynamic 8-week program. This included confirming weekly speakers and coordinating three different field trips, providing students with hands-on experience and exposure to the industry.
These efforts reflect our ongoing commitment to empowering the next generation of diverse storytellers, and I am proud of the strides we’ve made in expanding opportunities for youth interested in journalism.
To ensure ongoing engagement and effective communication, I made it a priority to send out bi-monthly newsletters to members, professionals, and friends of the NY Association of Black Journalists. This consistent outreach not only kept everyone informed about upcoming events, programs, and initiatives but also helped us build meaningful relationships within the broader journalism community.
Through these efforts, we were able to secure opportunities such as free screenings of impactful films, exclusive Broadway shows, and various educational experiences. These experiences have provided our members with valuable exposure, networking opportunities, and a deeper understanding of the arts, media, and culture—all essential components in nurturing well-rounded journalists and storytellers.
By fostering these partnerships and maintaining open lines of communication, we continue to expand our reach, promote diversity, and create impactful, memorable experiences for our community.
I am proud to have partnered with several esteemed journalism organizations, including NAHJ (National Association of Hispanic Journalists), SAJA (South Asian Journalists Association), and AAJA (Asian American Journalists Association). These collaborations have helped strengthen our network, foster diverse connections, and create enriching opportunities for our members.
As a passionate advocate for journalism and a dedicated candidate for Secretary, I am committed to authentically representing every chapter and member of the National Association of Black Journalists. I believe in the transformative power of listening, collaboration, and collective action. My goal is to foster meaningful professional development, elevate leadership skills among chapter presidents, and ignite a new wave of NABJ leaders who will shape the future of our organization.
I envision a NABJ where engagement is vibrant, communication is seamless, and every voice is valued and empowered. By strengthening the connection between chapters and the board, we can build a more unified, impactful organization that truly reflects our diverse voices and shared mission.
With my experience, unwavering dedication, and genuine passion, I am ready to contribute wholeheartedly to making NABJ a force for lasting change—where every member feels heard, supported, and inspired to lead. Together, we can elevate our organization to new heights and create a legacy of empowerment, growth, and impact!
