Young Trailblazers

PAINTING BY KEVIN JOHNSON

MY BLACK COLORADO

young trailblazers V O L U M E 3 // I S S U E 1

Premier Spons or So li d roc k c o m m uni ty d e v e l op me nt c orpo r at io n // s o l id r o ckcd c.co m

Solid rock community development corporation Abou t u s

Solid Rock Community Development Corporation aims to bring an end to decades of concentrated poverty on SE Colorado Springs through strategic and cooperative community transformation investments.

Our Mi ssi on

To build a diverse Southeast Colorado Springs economy that emphasizes the importance of affordable housing, small business development and healthy community environments.

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Lat rin a Ollie yo u th c o o r d i nato r Latrina Ollie is a lifelong resident of Colorado Springs, CO. She grew up in the Pikes Peak Park area. She attended D2 schools until she graduated from Harrison High School in 2004. Latrina is the owner of Quar Notary LLC. Latrina is passionate about community engagement and changing the image of Southeast Colorado Springs.

In 2020 during the Coronavirus pandemic she and a former classmate started organizing community clean ups and neighborhood events to promote togetherness and safety.

Latrina is a loving mother of 4 and wife to Marcus. Her family loves to travel and play sports together.

View Sponsors at MyBlackColorado.com/Sponsors

Th an k you s o l i d r o c k ch ri sti an c enter i n c olorad o spri ngs // solidr ock-cs.or g F or sponsori ng Z a’Mari talbert’s Fe at ur e page

Za’m a ri ta lb e rt Nomination By Hillside Connection Leadership “A day one Hillside Connection participant … Za’mari is developing the resiliency needed to succeed in the game of life. After not being selected for Hillside Connection’s Gold Crown competitive group, he used that motivation to become a better player and as fuel to explore life lasting pursuits ranging from: health and wellness (Zee has one of the best diet plans in the program), to fitness (Zee plays multiple sports not just basketball), and academics (he is a scholar in the classroom at Russell Middle School). He is learning there are multiple avenues to success outside of basketball.”

Interview Question What is the best advice someone has given you recently?

The best advice is from my mom, “Work hard, stay humble and have a great attitude. That will eventually see me!” It applies in life too because everyone appreciates a humble and hard worker.

Read Full Interview at myblackcolorado.com/youth

View Nominees at MyBlackColorado.com/Youth

Featured Nominee | Pg. 3

Thank You

To everyone who made this community initiative possible. It has taken many people to bring this together. We are excited to continue growing and expanding and being an enriching resource for our community and for those seeking to work with those in our community.

Thank you for believing in us and what we are doing. Teamwork makes dreams work.

Brandon & Jini Bornes Founders of My Black Colorado

Premier Sponsors

Feature Sponsors Pikes Peak Small Business Development Center pikespeaksbdc.org 719-667-3803 Hillside Connection hillsideconnection.org 719-434-1907 John Register Inspired Communications International johnregister.com 719-357-6833

Solid Rock Christian Center solidrock-cs.org (719) 393-7625

Darrell Anderson Omni Inspections omniinspect.com 719-290-4901 Demetrius Johnson DSquared Financial Group dsquaredfinancialgroup.com 720-722-1290 Anastasia Smith RainbowCubz 318-359-1972

Solid Rock Community Development Corporation solidrockcdc.com (719) 393-7625

Shirley Martinez Pikes Peak Diversity Council ppdiversitycouncilinc.org Lisa Jenkins Kingdom Builders Family life Center kingdombuildersfamilylifecenter.org 719-247-8190 Claudine Malcolm World Of Wellness 719-210-7070 Carlos Gonzalez, Jr. State Farm Insurance Agent guardianofthecommunity.com 719-900-7431

Pikes Peak Community College ppcc.edu (719) 502-2000

National Countl of Negro Women Denver Section ncnwdenver.org Joshua Alexander Hoy & Gina Baker Hoy-Baker Funeral Homes hoybakerfuneralhome.com 720-809-6126

Your Are Helping Us Grow Your sponsorships impact how we operate. We have been able to pay over 15 local black writers, editors and content creators over the last year to help us raise awareness about what is happening in our local black communities around Colorado.

Pillar Sponsors Cultural Office Of The Pikes Peak Region culturaloffice.org 719-634-2204 Louisville Rising louisvillerising.org Jice Johnson Black Business Initiative bbiprofessional.com 303-900-7780 Russell & Zakiya Moss Moss Company LLC mosscompanyllc.org Leona M. Adbullah-Ward In Balance Dance Studio In-balancedance.com 719-394-8877 Sabrina Cooks Galvan & Gardner Real Estate Group galvanandgardner.com sabrina@galvanandgardner.com 719-660-8313 Patricia Kessack Eastern Colorado Bank YourFriendlyBank.com 719-258-7133 Colorado Springs Alumnae Chapter, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc csac-dst.org Nilaja Montgomery

Our Content is Free All our content is free to view on our website, but these special individuals support our organization by purchasing paid subscriptions and help make our organization financially sustainable

Paid Subscribers A Fish Named Gecko Aimee Richey Alana Gaither Alexis Miller Alexzandre Thompson Alicia Klausmeier Alicia M Cover Allison Yazel Amy Redcloud Amy Sweet anastasia allen Angela Bakas Angela Stevens Angelique Scott Anna Sutter Anne Tapp Anthony Young Arley-Rose Torsone BabeNatural Becca Tarnowski Becky Mares Benjamin Anderson Benjamin Ralston Bernadette White Biaze Houston Billy Williams Brandon Cromier Brian Elyo Bryant Perryman Byron Hall * Carla Kenyon Carola Rafferty Carlos Gonzalez Cassandra Berry Cassandra Reid cecilia mims Ceita Bobb-Semple Charadie Finkle Cheriece Peterson Christianna Anderson Christina William Chubby Curls, LLC Chuck Acker Cleveland King Colorado Beautillion Inc Corey Sturdivant Courtney Lively Cristina Sajovich Cynthia Camble Cynthia E. Hurd Cynthia M Patterson Damaris McCowan Darolyn Stewart Darrell Anderson Dawud Salaam Delecia Washington Derek Hunter Diva’s Laundry Service

dominique conner Dorothy Bee Durtana Walker Edward Glasser Elizabeth Androulidakis Elizabeth Jackson Elizabeth Lee/Young Emerald Taylor Felicia Bornes-Agyekum Felicia Hawkins Felicia Hawkins Frederica Murray-Crews Gabriel Padilha George Baines George Houston Gerard Endres Gwendolyn Henderson Harold H Rapp Jr Harriet Jarmon Harrison Hunter Hester Jackson-Roberts Holly Booker Hunter Anderson Idris Goodwin Jacqueline Brunson Scott Jacqueline Williams Jadonna Brewton Jaelithe Stephens Jamal Bowen James Flowers James Hinkle Janei Maynard Janelle Landon Janet Brugger Jeff Livingston Jeff Rueckert Jenelle Forbes Jennifer Gage Jenny L Owen Jerlene Dodd Jerone Penrose JESSICA L FORD Jice Johnson Jimmy Sellars Joan Maclachlan Joanna Welch Jocelyn Mccaskill John C Conoway John C Dodson John Register Jonhda A Starling Joseph Wiliams Josephine smith Jovina Galbearth Juannean Karolyn k Dicken Kay McCormack Keena Day

Kelly DeBardelaben Kelsey M Tungseth Kennedy Pugh Khadija Haynes Kieth Kennison Kimberly Anderson Kimberly Conner Kimbrel Curry Kingdom Countertops & Cabinetry LLC Ladonna Welch Lance Wheeland Latisha HArdy laurac@restoredlife.org leland jordan Leona Abdullah Ward Leonard Anderson Leroy Phillips Lihani Photography Linda J Rogers Lisa Olsson Lisa Smith Lolita Wilson Louis Hiken Louise Cutler Luis Velez Makisha Boothe Mama Carolyn Crafts Mani Trees Maria Wilcox Marie A Heaton Marquia Young Mary K Rockwell Matthew Burkett Melinda J Mingo MelindaJoy Mingo Melissa Grubb Micheal Brooks Michele Legetye Michelle Thomas Michelle Wills-Hill Miss Millie’s Kitchen Monique Flemings Nathaniel Granger Nealene Orinick New Life Designs Nicole Perkins Nigel Grant Nika Nicely nmonty041 Pamela Miller Patrice Ravenscroft Paul Strahsburg Philip Booze Rachell Stovall Ramona Lowe Rebecca B Theobald Rebecca Loevy

Regina English Regina Wiggett Richelle Gittens Rodney Gullate JR. Rodney Tarver Roger Fletcher Roosevelt Price Rosalyn D Bagby Royal l Curry Rutford Rutford Sara Bornes Sara Lane Sarah J Logan Scott Anderson Scott Schlieper senga fittz Sharai Johnson Sharon R Tunson Shawtina Lane Sheena Sanders Shirlee Dobbs Shirley A Stewart Shirley Martinez Shirley Wyatt Shunna Flowers smith leser Sophi Gilliland Stanley Gbandawa Stephany Spaulding Stephen C Shepard Susan DiNapoli Taj Dajuan Stokes Tanisha Bruns Tay Anderson Tekarah Harding Teresa Barnes Terri Richardson Thomas English Tianna Staples Tiffany Jones Tineal Simon Tony Penoyer Tonya White Tori Sharpe Treasell Henderson-Thomas Tressa Eaton Vachon Brackett Vanessa Julian-Shonoiki Vickey JONSON Wallace Hall Walter Huff Welvin Washington Will Phillips William Hilburn Yasmeen Nkrumah-Elie Yevgeniya Tsyganok yves sturdevant Zakiya S Moss

Covid has changed the way a lot of us interact with each other and the world. Many businesses were forced to be innovative and adapt to the changing environment. Some businesses could not pivot, while others transformed how they did business to better connect with their clients. One thing that we are confident of is that our community is resilient.

Thank you for all those who continue to support our organization.

My Black Colorado Is A Subsidiary Of BornesPro Media | BornesPro.com

OVERCOMING STEREOTYPES

Brandon & Jini Bornes

Founders of My Black Colorado

Our Mission

To facilitate and cultivate a cohesive ecosystem of the local black community to inspire, innovate and connect local areas together.

Our V i s ion | A Lo ve That Ne ver Fa i l s We often worry that we don’t have enough resources in our community to go around.

When we see someone in our community doing what we do but better, we get a little nervous or intimidated. Instead of using competition to spur on our creativity, teamwork, work ethic and innovation, we become soo overwhelmed with our own fears and insecurities that we gossip, sabotage, or hurt one another. This has happened to many exceptional people in our community.

We need to do better and lead by example.

Our love for each other needs to be greater than our fear of failure. If we had to simplify into one word what My Black Colorado is about, it would be LOVE! Because Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.

It does not dishonor others, it is not selfseeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no

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record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.

When people come in contact with our brand, that’s what I want them to experience.

It‘s not an easy aspiration to live up to, but we believe it‘s worth fighting for and it‘s what we need as a community.

Find Out More at www.MyBlackColorado.com/team

Our Team Of Talented Professionals

Cynthia Camble Publishing Consultant

Shantelle Nix Community Consultant

Ellie Redcloud Business Consultant

Ralph McCoy

Rodney Gullatte, Jr.

Design Consultant

Social Media Consultant

Dr. Anthony Young Mental Wellness Consultant

Michael Williams Strategic Consultant

Tashara Lweis Content Creator

David Prosper Editor

Richelle Gittens Editor

Kimber Reese Editor

Shirley Martinez Writer

Keena Day Writer

Talisa Caldwell Writer

Tina Pernell Writer

Camiio Patton Writer Find Out More at www.MyBlackColorado.com/team

Milton Whipple Writer

Kenya Fashaw Writer

Angelique Scott Writer Team Members | Pg. 7

Vote F o r O ur G o ld e n T i c k e t, P e o p l e ’s C h oi c e Award s at m yblackc o l o r a do.c om/ vote

Pg. 8 | Featured Sponsor

View Sponsors at MyBlackColorado.com/Sponsors

TABLE OF CONTENTS | YOUNG TRAILBLAZERS PG 2 | SPONSOR | SOLID ROCK COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION PG 3 | SPONSOR | SOLID ROCK CHRISTIAN CHURCH | NOMINEE - ZA’MAZRI TALBERT PG 4 | SPONSORS & SUBSCRIBERS PG 6 | MEET THE TEAM PG 10 | SPONSOR- HILLSIDE CONNECTION | NOMINEE - CA’MAR TONEY PG 12 | SPONSOR - RAINBOWCUBZ & RAINBOWCUPZ | NOMINEES - REAHGAN & MORGAN PG 14 | SPONSOR - INSPIRED COMMUNICATIONS INTERNATIONAL | NOMINEE - ASHLEY REGISTER PG 16 | SPONSOR - SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CENTER | NOMINEE - MARINA FENNELL PG 18 | SPONSOR - KINGDOM BUILDERS FAMILY LIFE CENTER PG 20 | SPONSOR - WORLD OF WELLNESS | NOMINEE - SAVANNAH WILLIAMS PG 22 | SPONSOR - NATIONAL COUNCIL OF NEGRO WOMEN DENVER SECTION & LIVING PORTRAIT HONOREES PG 24 | SPONSOR - PIKES PEAK DIVERSITY COUNCIL PG 26 | SPONSOR - PIKES PEAK DIVERSITY COUNCIL PG 28 | SPONSOR - BORNESPRO MEDIA | NOMINEE - JAKYE NUNLEY PG 30 | SPONSOR- D SQUARED FINANCIAL GROUP | NOMINEE - ELLIS HUDSON & ALIYAH FARD PG 32 | SPONSOR - HOY-BAKER FUNERAL HOME | NOMINEE - RACHEL EUROPE PG 34 | SPONSOR - OMNI INSPECTIONS | NOMINEE - LEON BAKER III PG 36 | SPONSOR - ANONYMOUS | NOMINEE - TAYLOR FLOWERS PG 38 | SPONSOR - ANONYMOUS | NOMINEE - JAVON MCKINNEY PG 40 | SPONSOR - ANONYMOUS | NOMINEE - CIERA NYKOHL PG 42 | EDITORS PICK | NOMINEE - VACHON BRACKETT JR. PG 44 | SPONSOR - IN BALANCE | YOUTH NOMINEE - SHANIYAH NEWLAND PG 45 | SPONSOR - MOSS COMPANY LLC | NOMINEE - ASIA MOSS PG 46 | NOMINEES - AMARA JOHNSON, ARMANI BOXLEY, BRITTON-GRAE CHAPMAN,& ZA’REA PATRICK PG 48 | NOMINEES - AMAYA PORTER, AMINAH FARD, ANGEL AMANKWAAH, ASHLEE TAYLOR PG 50 | NOMINEES - ASHYIA ALLEN, TRINITY ROBERTS, AYAUNA SMITH-MCCULLEN & CHEYENNE CISSE PG 52 | NOMINEES - CIERRA NOEL, DAMARIS DAVIS & DANIEL JOHNSON PG 54 | NOMINEES - DEVYN JACKSON, ELI BERRY, MILANI COOK & ESSENCE JENNINGS-WARD PG 56 | NOMINEES - RACHEL HILL, KIZHANA COOPER, GABRIEL PETERSON, ANTONIO & JASON MARTINEZ PG 58 | NOMINEES - JADYN PHILLIPS, LESLIE KOFFI, JAYLEAN FRANCK & JA’NIA MANNING PG 60 | NOMINEES - JORDAN COBURN, JUSTYCE SANDLIN, KELAJANAE CURRY & NI’ASIA ALI PG 62 | NOMINEES - SA’DAIVEON NEWELL, SHONCIRE GRAHAM, ABEL SHAW & CHARLES JOHNSON PG 64 | NOMINEES - IMANI LIGE, JOHN PRESTON HAMPTON, KAMEELAH SIMS-TAYLOR & KEIYASHA GRANDBERRY PG 66 | NOMINEES - MARIO WILSON, OLIVIA LANGLEY, SIERRA JARMON & TIANNA TERRELL PG 68 | NOMINEES - BRIANA GETER, BROOKLYN LUCKETT, LEON TSYGANOK-WILLIAMS & MARIAH HOFMANN PG 70 | SPONSOR - PIKES PEAK COMMUNITY COLLEGE | NOMINEE - SILAS BLANCHARD

View Nominees at MyBlackColorado.com/Youth

Featured Nominee | Pg. 9

F eat ure d Spons or h illsi de c o n n e c t i o n // h i l l s i d e c on ne c tio n.o r g // 7 1 9 - 4 3 4 - 1 9 0 7

Our Mission Leveraging the game of basketball to create pathways to opportunity for kids in Southern Colorado Springs!

The Hillside Connection Story Hillside Connection was founded in March of 2017 and incorporated as a 501(c)(3) public charity in March of 2019 with a mission to “leverage the game of basketball to create pathways to opportunity for kids in Southern Colorado Springs”. The organization is led by volunteers, including founder Terrell Brown and a group of community residents, who serve as coaches and mentors. Since 2017, more than 350 youth have participated in Hillside Connection’s programming.

All programming is “donation based” and provided at minimal to no charge for youth and families in the community. Hillside Connection currently serves youth girls (grades 1st - 5th) and youth boys (grades 1 - 8th) with a strategic focus on developing pathways programming for youth transitioning Pg. 10 | Featured Sp onsor

into high school in 2021. Youth participants come from diverse backgrounds and variety of school districts throughout the Pikes Peak Region. Throughout the year, youth participants are exposed to a variety of fun experiences designed to refine psychosocial skills, motor skills, develop civic engagement and to learn more about Colorado Springs - Olympic City USA. Past experiences that have broadened the horizons of our youth include field trips to the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, National Cyber Security Center, Olympic Training Center, and the United States Olympic & Paralympic Museum, as well as community engagement projects like re-striping and installing hoops at the Memorial Park Basketball Courts. Hillside Connection believes in

a five-tiered approach towards youth development, consisting of five pillars to success: sports clinics, enrichment activities, community engagement, competitive leagues, and academic & family support services. In order to serve the community, and ultimately increase our youth populations probability of breaking through the systemic structures to success, we need to come together and elevate organizations like Hillside Connection who are adding true value to the community!

IT’S GOING TO TAKE A VILLAGE TO RAISE THE YOUTH!

View Sponsors at MyBlackColorado.com/Sponsors

Th an k you h i l l si d e c onnec ti on F or sponsori ng th e T rai lbla ze r magazine

ca’m a r t on e y Nomination By Hillside Connection Leadership “Quiet but extremely thoughtful. Ca’mar can be considered “reserved” or “to himself ” but beyond that is a kid with a creative sense that needs to be ignited.

He is an honor roll student at Mountain Vista Middle School and has been a part of Hillside Connection’s program since our inception.

“Be A Leader, Not A Follower” Ca’mar Toney

Read Full Interview at myblackcolorado.com/youth

View Nominees at MyBlackColorado.com/Youth

No matter the circumstance, Ca’Mar plays his role in sports for the betterment of the group. Hillside Connection is currently in the process of exposing youth to a multitude of “pathways to opportunity”. He is talented in arts and crafts, and possesses the ability to build things effortlessly. Savvy with technology if nurtured/ guided in the right direction. Hillside Connection’s leadership believes Ca’mar has promise in whatever field he chooses, specifically coding, design, and development.

He is a young brother that deserves to be highlighted.”

Check out the pages below to see other Hillside Connection youth that are highlighted in this magazine.

Armani Boxley [Page 42] Amari Graham [Page 42] Za’Mari Talbert [Page 2]

Featured Nominee | Pg. 11

Feat ure d Spons or Rainbo wc ub z & R a i n b ow c u p z // (318) 359 - 1 9 7 2

Our Mission The mission of RainbowCubz, is to provide a foundation of encouragement for our youth.

Helping them become more involved in the world around them.

Their service would afford them opportunities to learn life lessons that would remain with them for the rest of their lives. Teaching them humility and humanity are important aspects of life and will take them a long way. Through their service and interaction, our goal is to change the world one rainbow at a time.

Our History I am Anastasia mom the the Rainbow Cubz. Their dad's name is Alfred. We wanted to share with you the history of how our family began. We meet onboard CVN 75 (USS Harry S. Truman) in 2008, we married in 2010. Duringthe our first few years of being married we endured several miscarriages. We seeked medical assistance, with that help we were then able to conceived and delivered a healthy baby girlwe called Reagahn. We later suffered our tenth loss, afterwards conceiving and delivering another healthy baby girl who called Morgan. We had our own personal pieces of the rainbow. Hence the name Rainbow Cubz. We know they are special and want them know that they have purpose no matter how "small" they are.

RainbowCupz was created to sponsor RainbowCubz activities

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View Sponsors at MyBlackColorado.com/Sponsors

Fe atu red no minees R e agah n & M organ

Ra in b owcubz Meet The Cubs

“Hello we are the Rainbow Cubz. We are not quite your ordinary pair of sisters. We are givers, we like to make our friends happy. “I will donate all my toys away to my friends” (Reagahn). The Cubz come from a long Iine of selfless servers/ leaders. Our mom is a United States Navy Veteran of almost 10 years, our dad is still Active Duty he has over 14 years of service. We are proud of him but do not like that he goes a way a lot, we miss him. Helping other little kids keeps us busy so that we do not think about it as much. Our grandparents were both United States Navy Veterans also. We have a great grand father, many uncles and several cousins who have and are still serving in the Armed Forces. We want to start early so that we may attempt to catch up to all the great things our family has accomplished”

Read Full Interview at myblackcolorado.com/youth

View Nominees at MyBlackColorado.com/Youth

Featured Nominee | Pg. 13

T h a n k you J o hn R e g i s t e r o f i n s p i r e d c ommuni c ati ons i nternati onal // j oh nregi st e r .com Fo r s p o n s o r i n g a s h l e y r e gi ster’s F eature Arti c le John Register is the New Normal Mindest Warrior John works with business professionals to hurdle adversity, amputate fear, embrace a new normal mindset to win the medals in their life.

Making Her Mark On The World Ashley Register

Interview By Brandon Bornes // Written By Tina Adams Poised as a confident future leader, at only 24 years old, Ashley Register is a millennial who is already making her mark in the world. She has helped organize peaceful protests surrounding pressing issues of injustice and loves politics. Graduating from the University of Northern Colorado last May with a degree in journalism with an emphasis in strategic communications, she aspires to go on to law school.

“I do have aspirations of going to law school, and I’ve been preparing for that, but I want to get as many scholarships as I can so I’m taking my time.” But, for now she is enjoying her job as an event coordinator at her alma mater where she coordinates a host of events to help enrich the lives of the current students.

Preparing for law school by researching scholarships is not the only smart move that Ashley is making. She understands the importance of being passionate and caring and strives to have an open heart and open arms for the people around her. Besides her many accomplishments at such a young age, she feels that this quality is what draws people to her; she attributes this part of herself to her mom and dad.

“They are giving people as well. Seeing that growing up and seeing the strength in their faces, allowed me to discover a giving attitude and shaped me into who I wanted to be as a person.”

Ashley knows that her compassion for people, her giving spirit and her ability to take charge and be a leader in any situation has gotten her where she is today. With no shortage of Pg. 14 | Featured Nominee

her own trials and tribulations in her college years, she honestly feels that those impactful times helped to shape her as a person. And surrounding herself with the best people during her college years is the most important thing she could have done as a student.

“My inner circle in college were all God-fearing women who were uplifting and encouraging. Just being around people like that helped me to grow and learn so much about myself.”

As a division one athlete and with the pressures of school, Ashley began to feel the stress of it all. She remembers one time in particular when she’d begun to question if she was on the right career path. Faith dwindling and feeling a little depressed, she began to read a lot of spiritual books and dig deeper into the Word of God. That year proved to be a year of self-discovery and she was glad to have good people around her to help her through such trying times.

Looking up to her brother, Ashley wanted to play basketball just like him. At a young age she started playing basketball. Ashley also played volleyball and ran track in high school. She went on to run track in College. She feels that sports are a good foundation in life for a lot of people, and says that because she did well in sports, she had more leadership responsibilities.

Ashely may have a lot of leadership roles, but she confesses that in her free time she loves to sing and play the piano. However, when she was younger, she picked her love for sports over the piano and has now more recently started to play the piano again.

Learning fast and loving it, she is eager to write music as well as try her hand at poetry.

“Never stop learning and always be open to differences of opinions.” Is what this young trailblazer said when asked what advice she would give to help older adults connect with the younger generation. Being open to seeing things from a different perspective, having a different opinion than others in the room, and trying something new helps to challenge your mind and helps you to grow. These are all things that she feels will go a long way in helping to bridge the gap between the two generations.

“Every person is growing; we’re all evolving creatures so never stop seeking to learn because you can learn a lot from younger generations.”

Ashely has definitely proven that growing and learning is the way to accomplish your dreams. She was inducted into the Hybrid Society at the University of Northern Colorado, a society that recognizes studentleaders who lead both on campus and in the community. She has also been in the Black Student Union and the Student Public Relations Network. Ashely hopes to accomplish even more when she gets her law degree, as she wants to help people who have been affected by racial injustices. Her mission is simple----to be a vessel that can help ease the pain of families and communities that need assistance with some of the toughest challenges in life.

View Nominees at MyBlackColorado.com/Youth

Fe at ured no minee A s hley Register

a sh le y regist er Nomination By John Register

“I am nominating this person for leadership. Ashley was an assistant organizer for the peaceful protest against the murder of George Floyd. She is an outspoken advocate and has helped many corporate business professionals understand the role they play in bringing about a diverse, equitable, inclusive, and belonging environment to our nation.�

Read Full Interview at myblackcolorado.com/youth View Nominees at MyBlackColorado.com/Youth

Featured Nominee | Pg. 15

Feat ure d Spons or pikes peak Small business development center // pikespeaksbdc.org // 719-667-3803

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View Sponsors at MyBlackColorado.com/Sponsors

Th an k you P i kes peak small busi ness d ev elop me nt ce nt e r F or sponsori ng Mari na f ennell’s fe at ur e page

m a r i na f e n n e l l Nominated by Regina English

“Marina is the Y.E.S. M.A.A.M. Scholarship Queen and she is a high honor student. Her GPA is 4.3 and she has been a phenomenal mentor for our younger ladies in the program. Marina has put in numerous hours of community service including toy drives and volunteering with various organizations in collaboration with YES M.A.A.M. 2019-20.

She attends Widefield High School where she is in the marching band. I am honored to have a phenomenal young lady like her in my program setting the tone for other young ladies that will come after her. Marina is a senior and plans to attend college and so much more.”

What accomplishments or awards are you most proud of ?

Some accomplishments I am most proud of are being accepted into the National Honor Society, being chosen to be a drum major, and winning a Central America pageant. Being accepted into the National Honor Society was a proud moment for me because I have always been a good student and have always stayed on top of my grades. But sometimes as a student, it feels like your hard work is being unrecognized or it is not important. When I was accepted, I felt acknowledged for my hard work and it shows me I’m doing things right and I need to continue to work hard to achieve greater things. When I got the role of drum major, I was proud because I was going up against many strong and compatible leaders. During the season I really appreciated how people respected me and were content with having me as one of their leaders. This really showed me how much others believed in me.

Lastly, representing my mother’s country in a pageant was a proud moment for me because I got the chance to represent my culture and show a different side of myself. That showed my love for Panama and a side I love to show off and express.

Read Full Interview at myblackcolorado.com/youth

View Nominees at MyBlackColorado.com/Youth

Featured Nominee | Pg. 17

Feat ure d Spons or Kingdom Builder’s Family Life Center // kingdombuildersfamilylifecenter.org // 719-247-8190

Our Mission:

KBFLC is committed to changing the narrative of underserved individuals, families and youth who have been impacted by various forms of Trauma. We do this by: Advocacy, Education, Case Management, Mentorship.

Our vision:

To empower and motivate participants to make the necessary and positive changesin their lives to be the persons they were created to be.

lisa je nk i n s founder of

k i ng d o m b uil d e r’s fam ily life center “The most important reason why I do what I do is: Gal: 6:2 “Bear one another’s burden and so fulfill the law of Christ”. I wanted to help as many as possible who have experienced various forms of trauma so that they are able to move forward in life and be all that GOD created them to be.”

Here are just some of the amazing accomplishments that we are so proud of !

• Provided direct services through My Brother’s & Sister’s Keeper Domestic violence program to 41 families • Provided direct services under our Project Right Direction program to 22 youth and young adults • Acquired 3 additional suites inside the Satellite Hotel making a total of 9 spaces for programs and services.

• Signed paperwork to secure our first of many scattered emergency safehouse/extended stay Houses

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Our Project Right Direction Leadership program provides services for underserved youth and young adults 1124 in our community to make positive life choices that enable them to maximize their personal potential through our Project Right Direction Program. We want to give them the tools to become leaders within themselves as well as their families and communities.

Project Right Direction has 3 focus areas: (1) Our Community-Based Educational program Designed to reach our youth early on in their lives to prevent later involvement in the juvenile justice system. The program aims to enroll young men and women between the ages 11-17- year-old who are not court-involved but could be at-risk for justice system involvement and some may already be exhibiting pre-delinquent behavior.

(2) Our Empowerment Program Designed for young adults who are 1824 years of age. Assistance is offered to help this age group achieve academic and employment success, provide effective and comprehensive activities, which includes a variety of options for improving educational and skill competencies and provide effective connections to employers, ensuring on-going mentoring opportunities, provide opportunities for training, provide continued supportive services, provide incentive for recognition and achievement, and provide opportunities related to leadership development, decision making, citizenship, and community services.

(3) New Beginnings is our diversion program Designed for those who are 11-17 who are in the early stages of involvement in the juvenile justice system or corrections.

It is to address delinquent behavior informally in the community to prevent subsequent offending.

View Sponsors at MyBlackColorado.com/Sponsors

What community do you serve, both geographically and demographically?

In our Domestic violence program, our target is those underserved in our community in particular males, people of color and young adults who are victims, survivors and those indirectly affected by Domestic violence, but we accept anyone that is experiencing domestic violence.

Our Project Right Direction youth leadership program specifically works with underserved youth and young adults who live in the SE footprint but as our other program we also will accept other youth outside of that footprint.

How do people get involved either as a volunteer or as someone who needs the services that kingdom builders offer?

How long have Kingdom builders been in the community?

The organization was founded in 2013.

Calling our office M-F between 9-5pm at 719-247-8190, you will get

We secured our 1st temporary location

a staff person who can provide information about volunteering

inside Solid Rock Christian center in

opportunities and our program services. If you are in crisis because

their location on Fountain & Murray in

of domestic violence and it’s after our office hours, someone can

the fall 2015 thanks to Pastor Benjamin

reach us on our

24/7 crisis line at 719-464-4647 and an on-call

Anderson who offered the church for us

staff person will be available for assistance. Visiting our website at

to start our youth program, we moved

www.KBFLC.org will provide all information needed and our

locations when the church moved to the

volunteer application is located there as well, along with information

airport location. We were blessed to

about all of our programs and services.

secure our permanent location in March 2018 inside the Satellite hotel.

HELP IS A PHONE ALL AWAY! 24/7 crisis line at 719-464-4647 View Nominees at MyBlackColorado.com/Sponsors

Featured Sponsor | Pg. 19

Feat ure d Spons or C laud i n e M a l c o l m of W orl d of w e l l ne s s // (7 1 9 ) 5 9 6 - 9 2 9 1 N E W L O C AT IO N 25 9 2 PA L M E R PA R K B LV D I N C OLORD O SP RI NGS Claudine is joined by Nelda (Five Elements Massage Therapy) & Tiffany of (ReFresh Beauty Bar)

cl a u d i ne M a lcolm O w n e r o f w orld of w ellness Claudine Malcolm loves to serve! She is a fearless, innovative entrepreneur and educator. After relocating from Upstate New York to Colorado Springs, she has owned and managed three different businesses in three different industries over the last 20 years after a short stint as a Director of Fund Development at Junior Achievement’s national headquarters. She has taught at College America and Colorado Technical University.

Her current business, World of Wellness, pays homage to her mom’s legacy of hard work, fitness and humanity.

World of Wellness is a collaborative venture that offers a variety of services and products for optimal health including massage, facial, manicure, pedicure, lash extensions, and more. We also have classes such as yoga, meditation, nutrition, fitness and self-defense.

Claudine earned a B.A degree in Psychology Pg. 20 | Featured Sponsor

and Communication (Albany State), an M.A. in Management and Leadership (Webster University) and amassed decades of experience in leadership and management.

While living in New York, she modeled with Ebony Models of Central NY and competed in 5 beauty pageants earning trophies in 3. She served as a founding member of the Black Democratic Caucus, The Rwanda Relief Fund and The Discovery Center. She has been a speaker at countless community forums and events and has volunteered or worked with many community-based organizations including the YWCA, Albany Housing Coalition and Girls Inc. Among her many other accomplishments, she created and starred in her own fitness program “Get Fit With Me” (Schenectady, NY cable network), created The Community Fitness Run In Honor Of FloJo (Florence Griffith Joyner), created and hosted 2

fashion shows and has run over 50 5K races earning trophies in many and 16 domestic and international marathons.

Her mantra “life is beautiful and strange” is an expression of her belief that faith, a willingness to forgive, an open mind, hugs, a positive word, laughter and sweat changes things!! She enjoys hiking, running, yoga, traveling, reading, writing, embracing her humanity, socializing and meeting new souls.

We are proud to sponsor a feature page for this beautiful young lady and phenomenal athlete, Savannah Williams. We wish you the very best and would love to continue supporting your efforts! You’ve got this and the community is behind you all the way!

View Sponsors at MyBlackColorado.com/Sponsors

Th an k you Claud i ne malc olm of W orld of w ellness // (7 19) 596-9291 F or sponsori ng Savannah W i lli am’s Fe at ur e d Page

Savannah Williams

Interview By Brandon Bornes

What school do you attend and what year are you in?

I’m a junior at Palmer High School.

What do you think others would say they like about you the most and why?

I feel like others would point out the fact that I’m caring and I love to be able to help. I hate seeing people sad or angry. I can be someone’s comfort.

When you’re not in a class, what are the things you enjoy being involved with the why?

I love to be in the gym, around my teammates, and coaches. I like to be present and what’s going on in my community, around my family, and friends.

How did you get into it, or what do you like about it?

My mom wanted my brother to do boxing at a young age then I came into the gym and tried it, and I loved it both more than my brother.

So that’s what got me into it.

What is the best advice someone has given you recently?

People have told me never to give up and stick with this sport because even throughout the years, it’s been challenging for me and to keep up with it. But I never give up because they’ve always told me you never know how far you can go with it.

What accomplishments or awards are you most proud of ?

Being ranked number one in the nation in my weight class is the one thing I’m proud of because I never thought I could be at that level, but here I am. There have also been many opportunities for me, like traveling around the world and getting to see others: different cultures and people’s way of living.

What are some things that you think you want to do for a career when you get older?

I’ve always wanted to be around kids and I think my career choice would be a pediatrician.

What advice would you give to kids your age?

Know yourself and know what you can do. Don’t let others tell you what you can and cannot do.

View Nominees at MyBlackColorado.com/Youth

sava n n a h willi ams Nomination By Yevgeniya Tsyganok “Outstanding leadership and sportsmanship

Read Full Interview at myblackcolorado.com/youth Featured Nominee | Pg. 21

Pr emier Sponsor National council of negro women denver section // ncnwdenver.org

Our Mission

The mission of the National Council of Negro Women, Inc. (NCNW) is to lead, develop, and advocate for women of African descent and all women of color as they support their families and communities.

NCNW works to ensure access to and full participation in the socio-economic and political systems which impact the quality of life for all women.

The National Council of Negro Women, Inc. (NCNW) is a coalition of thirty-eight (38) national organizations with an outreach to over four million women throughout the United States.

Since its founding in 1935, NCNW has played a vital role in the development and utilization of the leadership of women in our community, national, and international life.

Pg. 22 | Featured Sponsor

Our History NCNW builds a common fellowship for women devoted to the task of creative and positive relationships among women nationally and abroad. The National council of Negro Women Inc. (NCNW) is a nonprofit membership organization founded in 1935

by Mary McLeod Bethune, a child of slave parents, distinguished educator and government consultant.

With a mission to lead, develop and advocate for women of African descent as they support their families and communities.

NCNW addresses issues of human welfare and rights through public education, personal education, community service and advocacy.

View Sponsors at MyBlackColorado.com/Sponsors

P r em i er S p ons or National council of negro women denver section // ncnwdenver.org Denver Section Executive Board

Pamela M. Miller President

Valorie Yarbrough 1st Vice President

Portia Malone 2nd Vice President

Aja Brown 3rd Vice President

Deborah Tucker Treasurer

Cynthia Francis Fundraising Chair

Angelique Chappelle Social Events Coordinator

Lea Stead Public Policy Chair

Dr. LeNitra Oliver Social Media Coordinator

Dr. Claudette Sweet Historian

Sherry Delaney Chaplain

Sheila Smith Parliamentarian

livi ng Por t r a i t honorees The "Living Portraits of African American Women" program honors women and youth who have made outstanding contributions in various disciplines.

This annual program coordinated by The National Council of Negro Women Denver Section, in partnership with Denver Public Library and Blair Caldwell Research Library is traditionally held in celebration of Women's History Month.

View Nominees at MyBlackColorado.com/Sponsors

Featured Sponsor | Pg. 23

Feat ure d Spons or Pi kes Pea k Di v e r sity C ou n c i l // p p d i v e r s it yco uncil inc.o r g

About Us

Pikes peak diversity council (formally Colorado Springs Diversity Forum), PPDC acts to identify, cultivate, and convene community-focused stakeholders to connect spheres of influence to promote shared vision of inclusivity. We believe that a healthy community requires an inclusive climate built on a foundation of trust and respect for individual assets, talents, and perspectives.

Diversity and inclusion add significant value to our organizations and community by maximizing everyone’s contribution to a shared quality of life.

Pikes Peak Diversity Council and The Gold Room have partnered to bring safe and quality events to Downtown Colorado Springs. The focus is to promote diversity, equity and inclusion within the Colorado Springs and El Paso area. Evan Hooton, Owner of The Gold Room, has worked with the Pike Peak Diiversity Council for over 12 years and is very excited to have The Gold Room and its resources be involved in Pg. 24 | Featured Sponsor

the 2021 calander of events. Evan and the Hooton family have been proud supporters of “Everybody Welcome” and the numerous events over the years through production support at festivals, concerts and special events at Stargazers Theatre, another local favorite entertainment venue.

The Gold Room, located in the heart of Downtown Colorado Springs and directly next to The Mining Exchange Hotel, is known for delivering first class corporate

and private events and is committed to making it possible for businesses to continue to provide the quality interaction their customers and partners expect. The Gold Room is newly renovated to be equipped with a full turnkey production space with stage, studio and event quality lighting, HD cameras for live streaming and video recording support. As well as upgrades to the audio system for live bands, discussion panels and multi-track recording.

More Info at goldroomlive.com

View Sponsors at MyBlackColorado.com/Sponsors

Fe atured S po ns o r Pi k e s Pe a k D iv e r s it y Co uncil // ppd iv e r s it ycoun cilin c.org

w e lcome s

Kevin duren I N COMI N G S up e ri n t e n de n t widefield school district 3 In 1995, Kevin was hired to teach 7th and 8th grade math, along with a computer programming class that he piloted, at Janitell Junior High.

The very next year Kevin’s dream job at Widefield High School became available. The new position saw him teach Geometry, Algebra, Trigonometry and Computer Programming at Widefield High School from 1996-2002.

In 2002 Kevin received his type D certification at the University of Phoenix and was hired as the Assistant Principal at Mesa Ridge High School for three years.

He was then appointed to the Assistant Principal of Curriculum and Instruction at Widefield High School for two years before being appointed principal. Kevin served as principal of Widefield High School for seven years. In 2014, Kevin was appointed as the Executive Director of Secondary Student Learning and Math Achievement. Mr. Duren developed several programs in Widefield School District 3 such as K-12 Robotics and Coding Clubs as well as new engineering, biomedical and computer science courses at the junior high and high school level. He is also instrumental in developing Cyber Security pathways for students to attain industry level certifications.

View Nominees at MyBlackColorado.com/Youth

Featured Nominee | Pg. 25

Feat ure d Spons or Pi kes p ea k di v e r sity c ou n c i l // p p d i v e r s it yco uncil inc.o r g

wel comes

ca rlos gon za lez, jr.

Sc h o o l b oa r d d i r ec tor widefield school district 3 Carlos Gonzalez, Jr. is a second generation, BlackLatinX native of New York City (Harlem), NY. He has been in Colorado since his Army career brought him here in 1997. He is a Colorado resident who was elected to the Widefield School District 3 (WSD3) Board of Education as a School Board Director, during the November 2019 election. Once a member of the WSD3 Board of Education, he joined the Colorado Association of School Boards (CASB) to seek mentor ship and guidance from the organization whose mission is to create synergy among School Board Members and Superintendents. The purpose of creating this synergy is to promote the interests and welfare of Colorado’s 178 school districts.

He joined CASB working groups to help address the problem of the lack of “Equity in Education” for ALL students and staff. In December 2020, after only a year as a School Board Director, he was asked to apply, was selected, and accepted a position on the CASB Board of Directors, Region 6. He recommends all School Board Directors play an active role with CASB, to maximize the progress we as board members can make in our districts.

Pg. 26 | Featured Sponsor

View Sponsors at MyBlackColorado.com/Sponsors

Fe atured S po ns o r P ik e s Pe a k D iv e r s it y Co uncil // ppd iv e r s it ycoun cilin c.org

blackyouthsuccessmovement.org We are a non-profit organization and a small group of people who are trying to address the inequities in education for Black/AfricanAmerican children. All children are welcome to participate, but our focus is to help Black/ African-American children in particular. We initially focus on reading success and strive to have every 3rd-grade student achieve reading

proficiency, a key educational achievement milestone. However, the same program principles also apply to older students who still struggle to achieve reading proficiency.

Additionally, much of the training also helps to improve learning effectiveness for other subjects such as math. Over time, we will add additional resources to help in all subjects.

Director of Youth Programs for PPDC Founder & CEO Crutcher Cornerstone Community Development Corporation

View Nominees at MyBlackColorado.com/Sponsors

Featured Sponsor | Pg. 27

Feat ure d nom i ne e J aky e N un l e y

ja k ye n un le y Nomination By Shaun Varnado

Jakye is a great kid but more than that he’s driven, motivated and a natural born leader. He is a sophomore at Eaglecrest high school in Aurora, Co. Jakye is a 4.0 student ,a part of student leadership, student counsel ,Elevate (Elevate is a program that gives kids of color a home away from home) he’s a music artist, He does commercials/ public service announcements on social media and holds down a part time job. I tell my kids all the time “If you give 120%, you’ll get 120+ back.” I truly believe he deserves a platform to shine and like the magazine says, “We shine brighter together.” Just feels different when our own people recognize your greatness. As a young man a person that didn’t look like me told me “you have to be twice as good to be half as bad as your competition.” This is why I nominate Jakye Nunley the young man stands alone.”

J AK Y E N U N LEY

Read Full Interview at myblackcolorado.com/youth

Pg. 28 | Featured Nominee

View Nominees at MyBlackColorado.com/Youth

Th an k you BornesP ro Med i a // Bornespro.c om // 719-629-7482 F or sponsori ng J akye Nunley’s F eat ur e sp r e ad

Jakye Nunley

Interview By Brandon Bornes // Written By Tina Purnell

Jakye Nunley, pronounced (Juh-kye), is as unique as his name. A current sophomore at Eagle Crest high school where he is soaring high academically, with possibilities of an early graduation on the horizon, Nunley is proud of the fact he has never missed an Honor Roll award since the sixth grade. He has also received awards both in school and out, one of his achievements being a fan-favorite album award mentioned in the 303 Magazine for his music, which will be discussed a little later in the article.

Besides excelling in his schoolwork, this tenacious 4.0 student is also involved in a number of groups that aim to help strengthen the community and provide unity as well as support for his fellow peers. Brotherhood, a group for young black men, Student Council and Avid are just a few that he serves in, however, Elevate is one that he is particularly fond of because of the amount of hands-on work in the community that it requires. In consideration of all that Jakye loves to do for his community, it is safe to say that he has a good understanding of what shining brighter together means to him.

“I love any form of empowerment and lifting up people, and anyone that has a success story—I want to hear it. So, Elevate helps me reach out to my peers more and be more involved in the community.”

The people around Jakye really take notice of his ability to be bold and take a stand for what he believes in, regardless of what it is. In Student Council as well as Elevate,

he was challenged to find solutions and resources for a family in need all while pushing the group to meet the need with excellence.

He didn’t just want to give them something tangible, but he wanted the family to feel the true support, love and concern that they had for them. Going the extra mile for people or a cause is what makes this young man so unique. He is not afraid of a challenge and he expects others around him to show- up too! This is why he loves being involved with groups that feel the same way that he does about the community.

After going hard for his community and working at his part-time job, Jakye loves to make music. Since the age of five he has had an interest and feels that it’s a great way to express himself. He is a mix master of all his own music and even has an artist name that he goes by; you can find him on Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube music as “Kye The Artist.”

A piece of advice that Jakye lives by is to always access and re-access the opportunities in front of you. Finding ways to make things more beneficial and not settle for less is something that he is always mindful of.

For instance, he had to make a decision to apply for a job that was closer to his home versus one that was further away so that it would be more cost effective. After he made the switch, he was pleasantly surprised by the fact that the position also came with higher pay. Change is not always simple, and it can be a little challenging at times, but Jakye believes in pushing himself to the limits.

View Nominees at MyBlackColorado.com/Youth

“Don’t drown in simple; you can’t limit yourself and do the best for yourself as well.”

Another thing that Jakye feels is very important is to learn how to manage stress. Everyone manages stress differently and for him, taking a nice long nap is what he feels does the trick. Afterward, he usually wakes up feeling refreshed and ready to explore more of what the day will bring his way.

Jakye also understands what it will take to help the older generation connect with younger ones. He wants adults to know that youth have their struggles just as they have their own and feels that adults understanding this instead of comparing their struggles to the younger generation, and sometimes even belittling them, is one thing that would help to strengthen the bond between the two.

“Life doesn’t exclude hardships just because of your age. You could be 10 or 45 years old with a struggle and we all have to take time to recognize that.”

In the future, Nunley wants to own a business with his name touching the automotive, clothing, music and film industries; as he is a firm believer of having multiple streams of income. Making an impact in the community and creating opportunities for everyone is something that he aspires to do. His mindset is one that likes to see others win, not just himself and at this rate, he will do just that.

Featured Nominee | Pg. 29

T hank yo u Demetrius Johnson of DSquared Financial Group // dsquaredfinancialgroup.com // 720-722-1290 For spon s o rin g E ll i s H u ds o n ’s F e at u r e page

Ellis Hudson Interview

What school do you attend and what year are you in?

I am a freshman at Regis University, class of 2024.

What do you think others would say they like the most about you?

A lot of people have different reasons as to why they like me, but the most consistent answer is because I am a positive outgoing person, and I am authentic to who I am. I do not pretend to be a perception of the person you might assume me to be. If you were to ask me a question I will always give you my truth.

When you are not in a class, what are the things you enjoy being involved with?

I love being with friends because we’re either making music, playing games, exercising, having deep conversations about numerous topics, or just in general making each other more sharp-minded individuals.

The reason I love doing that is because I love to learn and make myself and those around me better.

What is the best advice someone has given you recently?

I can go on and on about the advice people have given me, but as of recently James Baldwin said, “ Please try to remember that what they believe, as well as what they do and cause you to endure does not testify to your inferiority but to their inhumanity.”

What impact have you made in the community that you are most proud of ?

El l i s Hu d s o n Nominated By Kenneth Crowley Sr

“For his leadership and his passion for the next generation of Young Kings! Ellis is an outstanding role model for his younger brothers as well as every Young King that he mentors through The Crowley Foundation.”

Read Full Interview at myblackcolorado.com/youth Pg. 30 | Featured Nominee

Becoming an ambassador for The Crowley Foundation and a facilitator for Mental Health Wellness and Recovery Action Plan are my biggest contributions to the community. I am proud of those roles because I’m helping other people either heal mentally or physically, I am able to encourage others to strive for greatness, and in general, be a support for others.

What role did your family play in where you are today?

I wouldn’t be here without them. If it wasn’t for my mother working as hard as she did for all of my family, I wouldn’t have the opportunity and time to focus on helping others. My brothers and sisters give me the support I need to keep me at peace and balance in my life.

They are like pieces on a chessboard and I’m playing against the oppressions and pitfalls of the world.

View Nominees at MyBlackColorado.com/Youth

Th an k you Demetrius Johnson of DSquared Financial Group // dsquaredfinancialgroup.com // 720-722-1290 F or sponsori ng ali yah Fard’s Fe at ur e page

Aliyah Fard

Interview By Brandon Bornes What do you think others would say they like about you the most or what they value about you?

I would say that I’m independent, reliable, and open-minded. I think it is really important to hold your ground and be able to do things on your own. I’ve acquired both of those skills to connect with other people and hold my own whenever it comes to projects that I’ve participated in. I’ve shown reliability and the work I do is always quality. As for open-mindedness, I think, especially in this current 2020 era, certain concepts need to be unlearned regarding different social issues or anything else that requires having the ability to reflect on your behaviors. I think those are all qualities that I’ve excelled in.

What do you think are some of the core values that lead you to do what you do?

Growing up in Denver, I have celebrated Kwanzaa all my life today.

Today is the third day–Happy Ujima! We are focusing on collective work and responsibility, which I would say is a core value. However, yesterday the importance of self-determination is critical to me, and the first-day principle of unity. So I’d say all seven of those principles have shaped and groomed me into what I hold value. Based on all of the Kwanzaa traditions and coming from a very community-oriented family.

What is the best advice someone has given you recently?

Oh, I have a perfect answer for this! Your lack of planning does not create an emergency for me.” That’s what I’ve been thinking about right now. I think it’s easy to shove people into stuff when they’re good at that. I feel like that happens to me all the time; when people ask me to do different things, I’d say yes to doing those things.

Planning is another thing that’s important to me. I like having an organized situation, so last minute stuff doesn’t run with me that well. Keeping in mind that those that lack planning, which is on someone else’s part, doesn’t have anything to do with me, and I don’t have to fix that.

What is one piece of advice that you think adults need to hear I feel like the older generation has many weird expectations of younger people, and they expect us to fix every mess they’ve made.

I feel like that’s whack! It needs to be a collective effort. You can’t just mess things up and then pass the torch expecting other people to fix it. Everybody needs to be fixing these issues that we’re seeing.

That’s annoying coming from older generations. I would also say to just being more empathetic about mental health issues and how we speak and connect with people is what I would remind the older generation about.

View Nominees at MyBlackColorado.com/Youth

FAR D A liyaALhI YAH fa rd Nominated by JF STEM Institute

“Aliyah, a Denver native, is a junior at Whitman College with a focus on Environmental Policy. Aliyah’s dedication and commitment to ensuring equity and inclusion in the arena of clean air, water, and food have been an immeasurable pursuit, and often she is the one person of color at the environmental table. To date, Aliyah has planted over 100 trees in the Denver Platte area, organized key components of a Youth Water Summit (2nd year), organized a 2020 fundraiser for a Native American Reservation, and recently successfully challenged the Whitman Admin and Faculty to update the college’s policies regarding equity and inclusion.

Aliyah has maintained a GPA of 3.7 and has been selected to pursue environmental work in South Africa in the Spring of 2021.”

Read Full Interview at myblackcolorado.com/youth

Featured Nominee | Pg. 31

Feat ure d spons or Hoy-Bak er F un er a l Home // h oyb a k e rf u n e r a l ho me .co m // 7 2 0 - 8 0 9 - 6 1 2 6

Hoy-Baker Funeral Homes Servicing The Denver & Colorado Springs Area About Us

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When planning a service, you have many options available to you and we will do all that we can to provide a beautiful and respectful ceremony.

Joshua Alexander Hoy Founder & President 15 Years Of Experience

Services Provided: Funeral Service, Memorial Serive, Burial and Cremation We have a wide range of resources to support you not only today, but in the weeks and months to come.

Resources Provided: Online Memorials, Tribute Videos, Funeral Fund Donations, Ordering Flowers, Sharing Service Details, Daily Grief Support Emails

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Testimonial My uncle’s service was very beautiful. Grace Memorial Chapel was very professional.

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Pg. 32 | Featured Sponsor

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Th an k you H oy- baker f une r al home s F or sponsori ng rac h el europe’s Fe at ur e page

Rachel Europe

Interview By Brandon Bornes What school do you attend and how old are you?

I’m 16 years old. I am currently enrolled at Eaglecrest High School.

I just finished a class through Smoky Hill, and I’m also enrolled at Brigham Young University. I am an 11th grader, but I will be graduating in May. What do you think others would say that they like about you or value about you the most?

I think what people value about me the most is my heart. I consider myself an empathetic person and somebody who’s always looking to make the world a better place for other people and I think that people see that they may not always say it. Still, I believe that when people are around me or interact with me, they feel emotionally safe, which is something important to me and just as they belong overall.

When you’re not in a class, what are things you like to enjoy being involved with?

Well, I was earlier this year inducted into the Thespian Society. So I enjoy acting, singing, and Performing Arts. I am a super creative person, so I like to do hair in general, crochet and knit. I’m not a Super great painter, but I want to learn to paint and draw. I’m also a writer, so sometimes I write songs, poetry, and all that creative stuff.

Are you involved in anything in school?

I’m on the student council this year. I’m the director of student advocacy and my responsibility is to make sure that we’re making sure all of our decisions are serving students. At the same time, we’re making sure that we’re incorporating each students’ voice and producing something that fits them well.

What would you say is the best advice someone has given you recently?

Actually, it came from Jake Nunley, which is funny, but he said, “Don’t make it known if you can’t make it grow.” I think that’s super important because you know, a lot of people boast about how they make this much money, or I’m doing this and I blah blah blah, but what are you doing with it? Are you expanding it? Are you expanding your reach, or are you settling for mediocre work, or are you just living in it? You know, I think that’s something that I try to apply to my life now ever since he told me.

Rach e l e urope Nomination By Jakye Nunley

“Rachael is an amazing leader in her community.

She takes on various leadership roles as she holds the student advocacy director position on student council and she is also a English tutor. Her efforts are greatly appreciated, as I’ve also observed her many talents such as singing & drawing. She is way above average in both categories! Also she is graduating early and setting her self up for success by finding her life-work balance before she gets out of high school! Overall the girl is extremely talented and well rounded.”

Read Full Interview at myblackcolorado.com/youth

View Nominees at MyBlackColorado.com/Youth

Featured Nominee | Pg. 33

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da rrell a n d erson

Ow ner of omni home inspections, l l c About Us

Omni Home Inspections, LLC is a family owned and operated business in Colorado Springs, Colorado that offers comprehensive inspection services for homeowners in and around the area. My name is Darrell Anderson, and I am a full-time professional inspector. I am a highly trained and certified inspector, 100% committed to providing objective property inspections with thorough, easy-toread reports. I do not provide repairs for properties, since this would be a conflict of interest and is not permitted per the code of ethics of any nationally recognized home inspection association.

Our services include residential inspections, mold inspections, and radon testing. If you are looking for a professional, experienced, and dependable inspector, call me today!

Pg. 34 | Featured Sponsor

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Th an k you Da r r e l l A n de r s o n of Omni I nspec ti ons // omni i nspec t.c om // 719-290-4901 F or sponsori ng Leon Baker’s F eat ur e Sp r e ad

Leon Baker III

Interview By Brandon Bornes What do you think people like most about you or value most about you?

I believe that my friends most value my honesty. They find me to be an approachable person to which they can come to for advice, as well as comfort. This is something that I am very proud of.

What accomplishments or awards are you most proud of ?

I am most proud of my performance at The Juilliard School and the receiving of the concertmaster position in the Colorado Springs Youth Symphony.

Tell me more about your Juilliard experience?

Juilliard is one of the top music schools in the country. I was very fortunate to have performed here. This would not have been possible without the efforts of the Sphinx Organization. This experience also allowed me to overcome a great deal of performance anxiety, as well as experience diversity in music for the first time. I had never studied or performed with so many African American musicians. This is an experience I was truly grateful for.

What were the processes and training like at Juilliard?

Your admission to the camp is determined by an audition. Once you successfully audition, you will be flown out to Juilliard for free. Once there, you will be assigned a private teacher for the next two weeks.

In between your private lessons, you will also perform in quartets, masterclasses, as well as participate in seminars every evening. In the mornings, you are expected to practice before your lesson. After your lesson, you continue to practice until further notice. It is definitely a very intense camp, but well worth the experience.

What’s your career aspiration?

In the future, I definitely want music to continue being a part of my life. I plan to attend a university that provides a double degree program, such as Oberlin, to allow me to pursue multiple interests.

Here, I plan to major in both violin performance and biology. Along the way, I might use my degree in biology to become an orthodontist.

While doing this, I will continue to pursue music. On the contrary, I might decide to pursue music whole-heartedly. I am leaving the possibilities open so that when the time comes, I will be able to make the best decision for myself.

View Nominees at MyBlackColorado.com/Youth

leon ba k er III Nomination By Melva Hall “Leon is a talented violinist who is a member of the Colorado Springs Youth Symphony Orchestra where he is the concertmaster. He is also a member of the National Youth Orchestra and the Sphinx Organization, a non-profit organization dedicated to the development of young Black and Latino classical musicians. Leon was invited to the summer program at the Juilliard School and performed at Carnegie Hall.”

Read Full Interview at myblackcolorado.com/youth Featured Nominee | Pg. 35

Feat ure d nom i ne e tay lo r f l o we r s

Taylor Flowe rs Nominated By Regina English

“Taylor is the YES M.A.A.M. Teen Queen and she is a great mentor and leader within the program. She has served countless hours of community service including toy drives and collaborations with other organizations.

Taylor excels in school and plans to attend college. She has represented with grace and class and it is an honor to nominate Taylor to be featured in the My Black Colorado Magazine.�

Read Full Interview at myblackcolorado.com/youth

Pg. 36 |Featured Sponsor

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Th an k you Ni laj a Mont gome ry F or sponsori ng taylor f low er’s F eat ur e sp r e ad

Taylor Flowers

Interview By Brandon Bornes

What schools do you attend, and what grade you are in?

What is one thing you want to get better at?

I attend Fountain Ft Carson High School in Fountain, Colorado, and I am a Freshman.

I am already good at what I do, but I want to learn new and different techniques for my business to continue to be successful.

What do you think others would say that they like the most about you?

My parents have always taught me to find the good in every situation and treat people how you would like to be treated. I have tried to be nice to everyone because you never know what a person is going through. I think that others would say that I am a friendly and helpful person with good manners. They would also say that I’m a fun person to be around.

When you are not in a class, what are the things you enjoy being involved with?

I enjoy being on my Church’s Dance Ministry Team because I enjoy dancing. I also love to make different desserts and work on learning new ideas. People enjoy my desserts, so I will be starting a dessert business along with my Mom in February.

What is the best advice someone has given you recently?

Mrs. Regina, our Director for My African American Miss Pageant system, in which I hold the title of Teen Queen, consistently mentors and encourage everyone involved whether they win or lose. She recently told me that attitude is everything and that it can change a room. She also told me to try and be my best self and to “Be You and to Be Fabulous on purpose!”

What is one piece of advice that you think adults needs to hear to help them connect with the younger generation better?

I think that adults need to know and accept that we are stressed too. With the recent change in the way we live, we are concerned with school and how things will be in the future and not being able to see our friends daily as we used to do. They should be open to communicate with the younger generation and the way that we learn since we are the future.

What accomplishments or awards are you most proud of ?

I am currently the reigning Teen Queen, in the My African American Miss Pageant.

I hadn’t competed in pageants in a few years, and I won the title. I am also a part of the Elevated Program at my school. It’s a mentorship program for students who have maintained a specific GPA throughout their middle school years. I am proud of this accomplishment because I am one of only three other students from my school chosen by name for this program. I am enjoying being a part of this program because it prepares me for college and other areas of life.

Shop At www.MyBlackColorado.com/Sponsors

What impact have you made in the community that you are most proud of and why?

Last Christmas, I volunteered along with my pageant sisters in giving out toys to children who are underprivileged in two different areas of Colorado Springs. I was proud to participate because we could do this for children who, under other circumstances, may not have had such a great Christmas. It was also great to see how happy the children were when they left because we had so much to choose from.

What do you think you want to do for a career?

After graduating, I plan to attend college to become an Analytical Chemist. I have always loved science, and I love learning new things and figuring out new ideas about it.

Therefore, I know that I have something to offer, and I would like to contribute to the world.

What role did your family play in where you are today?

My Mother and Father have always encouraged me to do things out of my comfort zone so that I may stand out. They have ever let me know that I am intelligent, well-versed and that it’s okay for me to fail.

They taught me to learn from it and not let anything stop me from accomplishing my dreams. Because of them, I can now step out of my comfort zone and do things that I usually would not.

Featured Sponsor| Pg. 37

F eat ure d nom i ne e Jevo n mc ki n n e y

jevon m ck in n e y Nomination By Melva Hall “Jevon is currently the senior class president at Widefield High School. He has involved his fellow student in various activities with bonding activities to help keep positive spirits during this pandemic.

He even used his media skills to help provide senior pictures for students who could not afford them.

Jevon’s community service include volunteering for the soup kitchen, singing in his church choir where he is the youth leader. In this role, he helped organize local food drives as well as a toy drive for underprivileged youth with lower income or incarcerated parents.

He is a part of Link Crew a program that mentors younger students adjust to Widefield High School.

Lastly, he serves an ambassador for the African American Leadership Conference Council Advisory and the Educating Children of Color Leadership Academy. I strongly believe that it is in Jevon’s character to continue his commitment to his education and community involvement. He found ways in the mist of this pandemic to create and respond to the needs of his fellow classmates while practicing safety.”

Read Full Interview at myblackcolorado.com/youth

Pg. 38 | Featured Nominee

View Nominees at MyBlackColorado.com/Youth

Th an k you “anonymous” F or sponsori ng J evon Mc Ki nney’s F eat ur e Ar t icl e

Jevon McKinney Interview By Brandon Bornes

What do you think others would say they like about you the most?

I would say in terms of me personally, what they like about me most is my dedication, my comments, but it would most likely be my understanding. I don’t believe that you have the right to judge somebody based on the experiences I’ve had in my own life.

Everybody in this world has a struggle that they’re really going through right now. Like I’d say I’m Christian and what we believe is, at the end of the day in our life, who are you in terms of God? Because only God can judge the actions of another human being.

So really you should just be a really good person and be understanding of a situation that people are coming into. I feel like a lot of people know me for being that person who doesn’t judge and I’m just someone who can come to if you have any problems and I’ll try to understand him as best as I can.

is no matter what you may have planned, eventually, change, whether it’s the smallest or the biggest type of change, will happen to your life and it’s inevitable, so it would be better now that you learn now to adapt and accept that change. Also in terms of that change, if you’re waiting on something to come and it hasn’t come to you yet, or you don’t know when it comes to you, you have to be willing to learn and accept that and move forward because life isn’t necessarily going to be the fairest at times but you really do have to realize that everybody has a plan for themselves. Everybody’s working hard.

Everybody is going through something at the same time too. And while it may not feel like your life is progressing or moving forward you are doing, you’re doing the best you can, you’re exactly where you’re at and you’re To make it through it. There’s a new day, the sun always comes out tomorrow God willing and you’re going to move forward.

What’s the best advice someone has given you recently?

What’s one thing that you want to get better at?

The best advice that somebody has given me recently was-- it was two pieces. One: listen before you speak about what other people have to say because, again, going back to that no judging rule, you don’t know what somebody’s story has been like, you don’t know what their life is like. I feel like we are so quick to judge and get our own personal grievances and opinions over somebody else’s rather than just taking the time to close our mouths, sit down, open our ears up, and just listen to their story. I feel like if people really learned that life skill a lot more, a lot of relations between our fellow humans would heal a lot faster and better. That was what my dad told me that a while ago and I just took that to heart because it’s really the truth. And then the second piece was to be adaptable and accept the change. I remember I don’t know if it’s her personal quote, but my mom told me a quote one time. It was if you want to make God laugh tell Him your life plans because you’re going to get a good chuckle out of Him. So pretty much they were saying

I’d say one thing that I need to get better at is appreciating the blessings and little things I’ve been in my life. I feel like my schedule is as busy as it is and the things I want to do, I have tunnel vision on a lot of things.

So sometimes I can get so focused on what I’m doing that I don’t look around and see that I have a home over my head, I have two parents that may not be together, but they are still willing and participating in my life and love me dearly. I also have friends that care about me and I have a community that has given me so many chances and so many opportunities. I think I just need to sit back and appreciate that this life, so full of blessings, was given to me. Because at the end of the day The things that I’m doing or the things I have been given can be given to anybody else at any time. I know that life can be difficult sometimes but if you really just focus on the positivity and the real good blessings that we have going on in our lives, I think it would just be a complete life improvement or make life so much easier.

View Nominees at MyBlackColorado.com/Youth

What do you think the adults need to hear to help them connect better with the younger generation?

I think it still plays out with the listening point where it’s just listening to and acknowledgment of their lives. It’s the same thing about coming from a point of understanding-- no judgment and acceptance. So I think [the younger generation] might not have this much experience as the older ones that they have really still have a significant part of their lives that affect them as a human and that should be accepted. For example, mental health in Millennials and Gen Z is talked about and treated way more than it was in my parents’ and grandparents’ generations when they were going through something they were just told, “Suck it up. You’ll be fine. It’s all in your head.” I feel like they can still get locked in that mindset and treat younger children the same way. So, it’s more acknowledgment of your child’s struggle and their life experience.

And then it was one more thing, it’s really about understanding the child also has Intelligence. There’s a difference between intelligence and world experience. Don’t get me wrong you need both, but intelligence needs to be respected in the same way, too.

I’d say one thing that I’ve really noticed is that the right of knowledge has never made more powerful in the hands of the youth than in this current generation because we have the information age and digital media that’s completely accessible to us. Just like in the recent protests for George Floyd or the others who were wrongfully killed and victims of police brutality that it was a very strong presence of Gen Z’s and that was really one of the first times we were able to show how intelligent some of our kids are, look how we were able to come together over the course of a pandemic where we were all divided come together using social media and digital media and still gather in protest for change, and change did come, too. Progress is happening.

Featured Nominee | Pg. 39

T hank yo u “a nonymo us” For spon s o rin g c ie r a n y ko h l’s F e at u r e Arti c le

Ciera Nykohl

Interview By Brandon Bornes Tell me a little bit about you.

I’m a junior at Mesa Ridge High School. I like to sing and I play many sports. I also like to help out my church with its food pantry and just anything my church needs. I’m always there to help out.

What do you think others would say they like the most about you?

I would say what others like about me the most is my personality. They always tell me I tend to put a smile on their faces. I just like to crack jokes and just do fun things with them.

When you’re not in a class, what are things you enjoy being involved with and why?

I enjoy being a part of my club volleyball team and choir. I play for Hot Shotz Club volleyball and I am the right side, which means I play on the right side of the court and spike (hit) the ball from that area each time. I really like just being a part of my team because no matter what, they always have my back and we’re always just happy together.

Tell me more about your choir, how long have you been singing?

I’ve been singing for as long as I can remember. I started out just singing in my church, and then when I was in sixth grade, I started taking singing a little bit more seriously.

When I sing I just feel free like I’m floating and I have nothing to worry about. I recently joined the Children’s Chorale which is pretty much the top children’s choir in Colorado and it’s a great experience for me.

What is the experience like being a part of the Children’s Chorale?

So we basically just sing all over Colorado and we do concerts every season. Before Pg. 40 | Featured Nominee

Covid, we sang all over the world in different countries. More importantly, we help the community by donating toys and food to homeless shelters and other helpful organizations. It’s just a fun family that I joined. I learned a lot about singing and I remember daily to not hold anything back, just sing your heart out because you never know who’s listening to you.

What impact have you made in the community that you are most proud of ?

What is the best advice someone has given you?

When I was little, I was just thinking I was forced to go to church like, “Oh, it’s Sunday.

I have to go to church.” But now, as I have been growing up, I’m actually building a connection with God and I think that also helps me become a better person. I know where I stand in my life and how He always has my back.

I was struggling with school and started to give up on myself, but my grandma told me to just be myself and be the best I can be.

What is one thing you want to get better at?

I would like to work on my mindset. When things go wrong, I’d like to have a better thought process. When I was younger, I had a bad habit of just giving up and not even trying anymore. So now I reinforce positive affirmations and basically just hype myself up so that way I can finish what I need to get done.

What is one piece of advice that adults need to hear to help them connect with the younger generation better?

I would say to listen and try to understand your child. You never know what your child is actually going through, especially nowadays.

I like to help out in my church with the food pantry because it warms my heart and brings smiles to people’s faces when they receive their food. It’s just a great feeling.

How has your faith evolved?

What would you like to pursue for your career?

I would like to become a music teacher or something in the music department. When my teachers share their music experience with me in class or choir, they really inspire me to do better and I want to share my story with others, especially younger individuals.

How has your family helped you grow and develop into the person you are?

They always push me to be the best; they never let me slack off or anything. My mom would never let me just settle for what I can do. She always pushes me to be my best and I really appreciate that.

What accomplishments or awards are you the proudest of and why?

In my freshman year, I lettered in varsity basketball, choir, and orchestra. As for this past year, I was able to go to Adams State University which is the top school in the nation for choir, and got to tour the school and put on a concert with the top high school singers in the state. That was a great experience.

View Nominees at MyBlackColorado.com/Youth

Fe at ured no minee ciera n ykoh l

ciera n ykoh l Nomination By Janit Pollard

“Ciera Nykohl (CeCe) is an amazing young lady.

She is not only musically talented, but is also an athlete and an amazing student. Ciera is a member of Summit, which is the top group of the Colorado Springs Children’s Chorale. She is a member of multiple choirs at Mesa Ridge High School as well.

She loves to sing and play her violin. She also plays club volleyball for the Hot Shotz club team. At church, she wears many hats: she is an active member of the church choir and is in charge of running the camera for the live stream on Sunday mornings. With all she does, Ciera remains an excellent student and a humble young lady.”

Read Full Interview at myblackcolorado.com/youth View Nominees at MyBlackColorado.com/Youth

Featured Nominee | Pg. 41

T hank yo u Leona M . Ab d u llah -Wa r d o f I n - B a l a n c e // i n- balanc edanc e.c om // (719) 394- 8877 For spon s o rin g S ha n i ya N e w l a n d’s F e at ure page

sh a n iya n ewla n d Nomination By Leona M. Abdullah-Ward

“Shaniya not only has a great personality, but she loves life. She plays the violin beautifully, was very active in gymnastics, and frequently does flips, cartwheels and other moves during her break time at In-Balance Dance studio. She excels in her dance moves and is always ready, willing, and able to help others. Shaniyah displays the skills of a natural born leader when it comes to teaching her tikok moves used during dance class; she is so vibrant, so cheerful, and always a joy to be around.

Shaniyah took her sign language skills to a new level, skills gleaned by spending quality, loving moments with her grandmother, and shares with all who will listen. Once after dance, the students and I spent time learning and talking piglatin, (a funny made up language). Shaniyah now comes to class and speaks in piglatin to communicate between those who learned the language. Her joy for sharing, learning, and loving will take her far in life.”

Read Full Interview at myblackcolorado.com/youth Pg. 42 | Featured Nominee

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Th an k you R u s s e l l & Z aki ya Moss of Moss C ompany LLC // mossc ompanyl l c.or g F or sponsori ng Asi a’s Fe at ur e page

Asia Moss

Interview By Brandon Bornes What do you think others would say they like about you the most and why?

When I speak out other people tend to notice that it does contribute to the conversation greatly, and I think others notice that I put my best foot forward. I’m also very caring and sympathetic toward others, so I would think that would also be something people would know me for.

What is the best advice someone has given you recently?

Most of the best advice has come from my mom. Since I’m going to college soon, she’s been saying to make sure to put myself out there so people know me and I’m known for the right reasons.

What do you think is a piece of advice that adults need to hear to help them connect with the younger generation better?

I would say to just listen because adults tend to believe we do not know what we’re talking about because we were raised in different times. And I think a rule needs to be applied that while younger generations need to listen to the adults, adults should lend an ear to the younger generations because they do have good ideas as well as adults.

What accomplishments or awards are you most proud of and why?

I would say definitely getting into the Honor Society because it’s really up there when it comes to achievements, awards, and academics. I just got my Honor Society ropes for graduation, so I’m really proud of that. It’s made me more confident in my school work lately.

What do you think the best advice would be that your peers would need to hear to help encourage them to keep on growing and reaching for success?

I would say to be fearless when it comes to wanting to go your own route in the right sense. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there; if people get jealous of you, so be it. Also, be different from everyone else; if you stick with the crowd no one will know who you really are. Learn to separate yourself from those who just want to make it because if you just make it you’re not really trying to go further.

ASI A M O SS

a sia m oss Nomination By Russell & Zakiya Moss

“Our daughter is a graduating senior with honors from Discovery Canyon Campus High School. At the early age of 16, she received her acceptance letter to University of Colorado at Colorado Springs and Regis University of Denver with an academic scholarship for the pre-nursing program. Asia is a member of the National Junior Honor Society, Spanish Honor Society, National Society of High School Scholars, and Honor Society. She is a very loving and caring sister and a hardworking daughter and student.”

Read Full Interview at myblackcolorado.com/youth View Nominees at MyBlackColorado.com/Youth

Featured Nominee | Pg. 43

F eat ure d you th no m in e e | E di t o r ’s p i c k vac ho n b r ac ke t t j r .

Vachon Brackett Jr.

Interview By Brandon Bornes // Article By Tina Adams

Vachon Brackett Jr., a 9-year-old boy with autism has a lot to share with the world. Just ask his parents Vachon Brackett Sr. and his wife Gina, as they express what they feel their son wants people to understand about the autism spectrum and how he lives his life.

“Once you meet one person who’s autistic, you’ve only met one person who is autistic.

This is a spectrum—that’s why it’s called Autism Spectrum disorder.”

Understanding that he thinks and feels things differently than others and being aware that he doesn’t talk is the first step to grasping Vachon’s individual needs. Those needs come out in different ways both physically and emotionally, so for us being his voice, we feel he wants people to know that people think and feel differently. He is not able to express himself in a way that is what we would consider “normal”, but at the end of the day he is going to express himself and you might not be able to receive it just as much as he can’t receive you talking to him. That’s one bit of awareness that people should know.

“I think differently, the typical things that you can do like reading a book and sitting down and having a conversation with your family—I can’t do. I sense things differently.

I am different. Its okay. It’s fine for me to be me.”

Powerful and eye-opening words spoken

by Brackett Sr. as he gives us a glimpse into the heart of what his name’s sake would say.

Vachon Jr. communicates in an extremely different way than what some would

Pg. 44 | Featured Nominee

consider a typical child does. However, he deserves the same support anyone with a disability would and should not be looked at differently because he is functioning at a different level.

Vachon, like many others his age, is attending classes via Zoom. However, third grade is proving to have its challenges because of the online environment, which makes it difficult for him to sit through cycles of learning.

Typically, in the third grade, students are learning things like multiplication and division, but Vachon is trying to learn life skills to become independent.

Vachon has an app on his iPad that gives him different buttons that he can select to help him communicate. At the push of a button he can say things like, “Can I please have Wendy’s?” or “I need to use the restroom.”

Just because he doesn’t vocalize doesn’t mean he can’t communicate; his father emphatically says. In my son’s mind, he tries to verbalize words, but he can’t fully. Needless to say, his parents get very excited when he is able to express words like mom and dad.

And both agree the iPad that he uses to put together sentences is an invaluable tool. At level 3 on the spectrum, he can understand everything you are saying in the moment.

Vachon understands and he will look at you when you are speaking, but there is a delay.

“He can understand 3-5-word sentences, but anything longer than that tends to frustrate him a little,” says his father. Despite these challenges, Vachon’s family concurs that he has an electric smile and they love to see his face light up with joy.

Vachon loves to play outside and his parents think that he would live outside if he had the choice. He likes playing on the swing, and during the summer he plays with the water hose. Other activities that he enjoys include watching Thomas the Train on his iPad and taking walks with his family.

While Vachon doesn’t have a typical life, his mom and dad are working hard to make sure that he has as much of an independent life as possible. Focusing on things like teaching him how to get his own food and brush his teeth are some short- term goals that they hope will have a lasting impact for Vachon— and he works at them every single day. With the love of his parents, brother, and teachers, his future looks very bright.

Being sensitive to Vachon’s needs and physical cues are something that the Bracketts rely heavily on to be able to access what he may be feeling at the time and provide support.

This can take all of five minutes or even up to an hour, but his family is there for the longhaul. Vachon’s younger brother is loving and supportive and sees his older brother as just that—his brother. Vachon is a young leader who has managed to give everyone around him a new perspective on life, one that exemplifies courage, persistence, tenacity, love, and a sense of humor. All much needed qualities that we can all use in life. While he may not be able to communicate verbally, his very essence challenges us all to be better.

View Nominees at MyBlackColorado.com/Youth

Fe ature d yo uth no minee vacho n brackett j r.

vach on brack ett jr.

This 9-year-old boy with autism has a lot to share with the world. Just ask his parents Vachon Brackett Sr. and his wife as they express what they feel their son wants people to understand about the autism spectrum and how he lives his life.

Read Full Interview at myblackcolorado.com/youth

View Nominees at MyBlackColorado.com/Youth

Featured Nominee | Pg. 45

N o mi ne e s

a m ar a j o h n s o n

A rm a n i Box le y

Nomination By Hillside Connection Leadership

Nomination By Hillside Connection Leadership

“God blesses certain people with specific gifts and we noticed Amara’s uniqueness at a young age. The daughter of a strong black woman (Shonda Graham), Amara is a very special young lady that Hillside Connection believes will change the world for the better. Amara is a rising star and has showcased the ability to lead at a young age. Yes, she is soft spoken in large groups but beyond that is a young lady passionate about serving others. This year alone she has led two fundraising efforts for Hillside Connection fundraising close to $1,000. The sky is the limit for this young lady.

“Small but mighty … Armani possesses the heart of a champion. At an early age, he has demonstrated the ability to overcome challenges. He is a self starter who, during the summer months, committed to challenging 6am strength and conditioning workouts with the middle school age group. Armani’s testimony will be one to remember as he continues to lift up others at his elementary school (James Madison Elementary) where he was awarded Student of Month.”

Queen, leader, philanthropist, creative, caring are words that describe her. We are fortunate to have her in our program.”

Read Full Interview at myblackcolorado.com/youth

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Pg. 46 | Featured Nominee

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Nomine e s

britton-gray chapman

Za rie a Pat rick

Nomination By John Chapman IV

Nomination By Sherrie White

“An outstanding individual, incredibly intelligent, and happens to be one of Colorado’s youngest successful DJ’s. He goes by the stage name “DJ Dopewave” and this year he has definitely made waves of his own.

Zariea was recognized by KKTV News 13 for her volunteer work throughout the southern Colorado Springs community. Zariea also helps raise money through the Color Run for families who are disadvantaged.

Britt has been the subject of two murals, one in downtown Denver and the other in Milwaukee, WI. As a student, he is a part of the highly talented and gifted program for Denver Public Schools. We are thankful for this opportunity to nominate such an amazing child, and of course we appreciate an outlet such as myblackcolorado.com for allowing us to take part.”

COVID-19 has not stopped Zariea. Recently she received a gold honor roll achievement award for her 3.8 GPA. She has been accepted into Peak Education Scholar program, holding pageant titles.

Read Full Interview at myblackcolorado.com/youth

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Featured Nominee | Pg. 47

N o mi nee s

amaya p o r te r Nomination By Prince Porter

Amaya Porter is in 10th grade at Pine Creek High School where she is a member of the American Sign Language Club and Women’s Swim and Dive Club. As a Freshman, she led the Lady Eagles in swim event points, assisted with getting the team to the State Championship, and lettered in swimming.

Amaya is also a competitive swimmer with Pikes Peak Athletics.

For the past 4 years, Amaya has raised over $7,000 for USA Swim. Her forms are freestyle and breaststroke and she has been fortunate to travel and to make state, zone, and sectional cuts. In her spare time, Amaya volunteers in the local and Denver communities, such as the Christmas Toy Give-away, and is an Ambassador for the African American Youth Leadership Conference where she participates in workshops, team building exercises, meetings with community leaders, and leadership development.”

Read Full Interview at myblackcolorado.com/youth

Pg. 48 | Featured Nominee

A m in a h Fa rd Nomination By Deborah Sims Fard

“Aminah is a strong proponent for students’ rights, equity, and inclusion initiatives at her school and community. Aminah initiated and organized the first BHM program at her high school in 2019 and received recognition for her film making skills in honor of BHM by the DPS Board.

In addition, Aminah thought it was important to have safe spaces for leadership development for black youth. She advocated and initiated a space for BSA (Black Student Alliance) at her high school and serves as the president of the group. Aminah is a member of the Young African American Latinx Leaders (YAALL) and the Student Board of Education (SBOE).

Aminah currently carries a 3.7 GPA.

Read Full Interview at myblackcolorado.com/youth

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nomine e s

a ng el a m a n k wa a h Nomination By Angelia Baker

“Angel Amankwaah is a youth in the FNE community, and attends Dr Martin Luther King Jr. Early College as an incoming sophomore. She is actively working towards a better future for herself, the different groups that she represents, and her community overall. She was born in Ghana, Africa and moved to Queens, New York. at age 5 and then later moved around from Brooklyn, Richmond, Atlanta, and finally arrived in Denver, Colorado.

Despite attending over 11 schools, she’s been identified as gifted and talented, and plans to attend an Ivy League or HBCU after graduating in 2023 and earn her PhD, then one day own her own business. Ms. Amankwaah is a huge advocate for the black community, youth, criminal justice reform, school choice, women, and all POC. She is a cohost of the podcast Know Justice Know Peace: DMLK’s “the take” alongside 4 other young black women in DMLK’s Black Student Alliance (BSA). She started work with Steps to Success as a youth ambassador under the supervision of Ms. Angelia Baker, and then became the first youth co-chair Steps To Success has had since forming our organization.

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a sh le e taylor Nomination By Corrie Whitfield

“Ashlee is a social justice warrior. From being on the front lines in nearly every protest locally fighting injustices, to empowering girls and women, to serving the community through her work with nonprofits, the Colorado Beautillion-Cotillion, and in school as a leader in her high school BSA (Black Student Alliance). Ashlee’s leadership skills are unparalleled.

We are so excited to see who she continues to become!“ Interview What is the best advice someone has given you recently?

I would say the best advice would be when things get hard, don’t let it completely tear you down; you need to still stand strong. When things do get hard that’s only to be used as your motivation to keep pushing.

Don’t give up no matter how hard things get. Always keep pushing.

Read Full Interview at myblackcolorado.com/youth Featured Nominee | Pg. 49

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as hyia a l l e n Nomination By Cornella Morris

“She owns her own business called Slay’d by Ashyia.“ Interview What is the best advice that someone has given you recently?

Don’t give up and never settle for less. That’s something that my friend’s mom told me ever since I met them when I was in fourth grade. There were times that I would think, “Oh. Well, I’m comfortable here. So, I’ll just keep doing this.” But then she told me, “You can’t just stay in one spot. You have to keep moving forward or else you won’t get anywhere. . .

Never settle for less!”

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T rin it y rob e rt s Nomination By Angelia Baker

““Trinity Reign Roberts is an example of when she sets her sights on something the sky is the limit. She has overcome many obstacles and continues to set a standard as a young entrepreneur. In 2020, she was announced as the high school winner for the CEO Entrepreneurship Business Grant through Star Girlz Empowerment.

Her passion for social media marketing, photography, film, editing, public speaking, and creative content has landed Trinity paying gigs and allowed her to expand her portfolio. A part of Trinity’s legacy building has been to open her own bank account and a joint business account with her CEO mother. In 2019, she learned coding and received the Entrepreneurs Award at the Evening Under The Stars banquet, through Star Girlz Empowerment, for providing her business pitch to Operation Hope. She was invited to Hollywood, CA for a film internship at Warner Bros. and Universal studios. In April of 2020, she made a documentary about the Black Panther Party.

Read Full Interview at myblackcolorado.com/youth Pg. 50 | Featured Nominee

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ayauna smith-mccullen Nomination By Eastlake High School Staff

“Ayauna Smith-McCullen is an extremely outstanding young lady. She is currently attending Eastlake High School and is completing her senior year. Ayauna is a model student in so many ways. She has shown strong character and dedication as we work our way through this pandemic.

Not letting anything get in her way, Ayauna’s drive has become stronger as e-learning and remote teaching become a way of life. Ayauna is present and positiver every day, maintains her schoolwork, holds a job, and competes in varsity track and cross country.

In the off-season she trains and is looking forward to her final season. Ayauna takes part in extracurricular activities offered by the school to connect with staff and students in new ways. When given the option, she opted to take college level classes to fulfill her high school requirements.

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ch eyen n e cisse Nomination By Ashley Atwell

It is my utmost pleasure to introduce Cheyenne Cisse – a personable, incredibly reliable, responsible, and world-changing young woman whom I’ve known since her freshman year. She is a powerhouse academic, leader, and colleague who exudes confidence, intelligence, and kindness through every action and choice she makes.

She is a dedicated leader who cares deeply about her peers and community. This is shown through her constant care of feedback from the Pre-Med Club members. She saw a need for another way to connect with the members, so she created and manages the OHS Pre-Med Club Instagram account. Through this and her check-ins at meetings, she makes it known she wants and will implement ideas and feedback from the group. Cheyenne spreads this thoughtfulness out to the local community too. She is the sole person responsible for initializing and coordinating semester community service to help the Ronald McDonald House prepare meals for all of the families housed there for medical care.

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Featured Nominee | Pg. 51

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Damaris Davis Interview

What do you think others would say that they like the most about you? explain why.

The leadership and pride I have because of football. I always push others and help them better themselves.

When you are not in a class, what are the things you enjoy being involved with? explain why.

I enjoy hanging out with friends, working out, and being on the football field with my guys.

What is the best advice someone has given you recently, who gave you the advice, and how does it apply to your life?

“Do your job and let winning take care of itself ” – Coach Barrett(Overlands D-Lind coach). This applies to my life because why get upset at something that is out of your control if you do your job to make sure that it is done right so you have nothing to worry about because the rest will take care of itself What do you think is one piece of advice that you think adults need to hear, to help them connect with the younger generation better?

dam ar i s Dav i s Nomination

“Damaris was one of only two defensive linemen at Overland High School to make 2nd Team All Centennial League this year. I believe that is an amazing accomplishment to achieve especially during such a trying year with so much uncertainty. He was able to focus on his game while also keeping up with school and pushing to receive that athletic recognition.”

One piece of advice I think adults need to hear is that mistakes are normal, but how you react to those mistakes will shape how younger kids think about life. If you are going to yell and scream at the kids all the time, I promise nothing going to get through our head because we’ve got emotions just like any adult, so it can lead us to shutting down or us getting mad and arguing back, but if you sit us down and talk that would make a better conversation.

What accomplishments or awards are you most proud of ?

I am proud to say that I was awarded the second Team All-Centennial League because I play in the best league, Colorado. To be noticed by other schools means a lot to me and shows that there was an improvement made from last year, but there is still room for growth.

What do you think you want to do for a career?

Well, the easy answer would be a professional athlete, but the real authentic answer would be a Pharmacist or Firefighter because I just want to contribute and help people out.

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Ceirra Noel Nomination By Angelia Baker

“Ceirra is a striving and determined student activist who attends Dr.Martin Luther King, Jr Early College.

Currently she is holding community based positions such as founder of the DMLK Volunteer club where she has gained and offered to others over 100 hours of volunteering. She is youth ambassador for Steps to Success where she helps prevent youth violence in her community by hosting Safe Zones with The Montbello Organization Community or highlighting other youth in her community for their amazing work through the Positive Recognition Campaign.

Ceirra currently has a 4.1 GPA and has challenging classes designed for students older than her. Ceirra is only a sophomore and has already set up an amazing foundation for herself, but she always goes for more.

For example: Ceirra writes poetry to bring awareness to the social justice issues she sees everyday; she is working towards working with the Mile High City of Denver on the youth council because she loves her community.”

da n ie l joh n son Nomination By Clarissa Lewis

“Daniel is a senior in high school earning his high school diploma and associate’s degree in Music Entrepreneurship. He has been a musician (percussionist) since the age of 3 he has played for various churches around the country along with playing with the Denver Young Artist Orchestra and earning a performance spot with the University of Oregon’s band camp drumline. Daniel has stepped into music production creating his own brand “Dawson WorldWide” and taken the HipHop scene by storm producing for artists across the U.S.”

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Featured Nominee | Pg. 53

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de v yn jacks o n Nomination By Drew Houston

“Devyn is a scholar, athlete, artist, burgeoning activist, and a kind-hearted and benevolent community member, all before officially reaching adulthood.

Her achievements in just one of these categories are notable, therefore it is all the more noteworthy that she excels in each of them.

As a senior at Mesa Ridge High School, she maintains over a 4.0 GPA, and is currently president of the Mesa Ridge Chapter of the National Honor Society.

Although the pandemic has impacted the season, Devyn is a varsity Soccer athlete, was nominated to be team captain, and has aspirations of playing in college. Because she is always looking for ways to positively contribute to her community, Devyn has volunteered with Kids on Bikes, the Southeast YMCA, the US Olympic and Paralympic Museum, and spread holiday cheer at a time when it was most needed this year as a Bell Ringer for the Salvation Army.”

Read Full Interview at myblackcolorado.com/youth Pg. 54 | Featured Nominee

eli Berry Nomination By Cassandra Berry

“Eli Berry (they/them) has experienced hardship due to being a non-binary black child in Colorado Springs. Through all of this, they have kept their head up and mind on the future. This future artist will wow not only the art community, but the Black community with their take on a non-traditional life in the black community.”

Interview What accomplishments or awards are you most proud of ?

Accomplishment wise, I’d say finding myself because I used to stress about who or what I am, but I’m comfortable with it now. About five years ago, I started exploring myself because I started thinking and feeling like I don’t think I’m a girl. So I started looking into it and I’ve gone through many things like different identities, names, etc. Then I finally found one that I’m comfortable with as well as my friends.

I’m not confined to just one sex at all, and I’m just fluid in whatever.

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m il a n i co o k Nomination By Aliyah Cook

“In 2020 Milani submitted a testimony that was read at the House about her journey with hair discrimination. Her story got a rousing round of applause and was featured in two local publications.

We were told that Milani’s story contributed to the passing of the CROWN ACT. Creating an Open and Respectful World for Natural Hair. CO is the 4th state in the nation to pass this bill. Milani participated in the Jack and Jill Central region oratorical competition and took 3rd place for her speech about her hair journey. Break the Mold, We are Black, Beautiful and Bold. Recently Milani was asked to serve on a task force as Cherry Creek School district navigates their path to AntiRacism. Milani holds a 3.6 GPA at her high school and plans to attend Temple University in Japan upon graduation.”criminal acts of an adult contributes to rape culture. Melanie and her sister were put on a task force to help change the dress code for the entire district.”

Es s en c e j en n in g s -wa r d Nomination By Dr. Mike Lamphere

“Essence is truly a comeback story. This young woman has endured hardship upon hardship and yet she continues to fight. Essence refuses to be a victim and chooses her own future. When Essence first came to us, she was a timid young lady. She barely spoke and yet with the help of Taniesha (auntie), we were able to cultivate the amazing and powerful young woman that you will meet. I don’t know many 16 year old juniors that are off of the high school campus and making grades down at the community college, but Essence is one. Essence is strong. Essence is a warrior. She is proof that your past does not dictate your future. I know she will go do great things.“

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Featured Nominee | Pg. 55

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R ac he l H i l l

antonio & j ason mar tine z

Nomination By Shirley Martinez

Nomination By Shirley Martinez

Interview

Interview

My name is Rachel Hill, and I graduated from Harrison High School on July 25, 2020. I was in the Honor Society and an AVID graduate with high honors. I am currently a freshman at the University of Denver studying Marketing. I would like to see how the second part of my first year goes and maybe will investigate a secondary degree in Finance and Real Estate. As far as colleges go, I received several offers and decided on my first pick.

My favorite color is baby pink, it is a light pink color, but not pastel. My favorite genre of music is K-pop which is a kind of Korean music. I found this music on YouTube and social media and really liked it.

I have found that in my spare time I like watching the Food Network. Cooking just soothes my nervousness about what the future holds. If I would say what people think of me, it would be that I know how to connect with people and I get along with people.

Read Full Interview at myblackcolorado.com/youth Pg. 56 | Featured Nominee

We were born right here in Colorado Springs and we are twins. We went to Webster Elementary school in Security and Fountain Middle school. We took a short detour to stay with our mom in Texas for 5 months and came back to Colorado. We currently attend Fountain Fort Carson High School. We live with our Grandma and Grandpa, and we come from a blended background. We are Black and Hispanic.

Sometimes life has a way of providing a different journey and we understand that sometimes all the things that are supposed to be normal are not what life is about. It is the tests that are placed upon us and we chose how we respond. Our grandparents are our guardians, and our parents although are in different states with different spouses they are in our lives. We have 3 siblings that live with our parents and we keep in contact daily. It is important that we stay connected. I suppose we could be bitter, but we know that they have chosen the path they think are best for us. So, a little bit about us.

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KiZ ha n a Co o p e r

ga b riel pe t e rson

Nomination By Shirley Martinez

Nomination By Shirley Martinez

Interview

Interview

I traveled around at a young age because both my parents were in the military at the time. I attend Fountain Fort Carson High School, and have played basketball for about 8 years, Junior High, High school and for a traveling team called Team Fierce. Prior to a pandemic, I was looking to play basketball. COVID changed that. When I took a break from basketball, COVID sort of changed my ideas. Basketball was my whole life. My aspirations of playing in College or the WNBA shifted.

When school starts again, I want to start reaching for my new goal in Sports Broadcasting. It was my way of staying in sports but using my skills in a different manner, so I love telling the story, so it was a Segway into sports broadcasting. I always watched basketball from an early age, I have family that play basketball professionally. It was really a men’s sport that women started coming up through the ranks. This is something that I looked up too.

I grew up in Colorado Springs with a side trip to Texas for a little while. I went to Palmer High School with dual enrollment at Pikes Peak Community College.

Because I did the dual enrollment, I was behind for high school graduation credits. I had to complete some of those a month later online. My teachers were flexible, so if we were satisfied with our grades and with a B in Math, A in Band, and A in English we did not have to complete any additional work.

The school provided an in-person graduation, but I decided that if my family could not be there I would opt to graduate online, which I did in May 2020. I also received my Associate’s degree in summer 2020, which was a high achievement for me.

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Featured Nominee | Pg. 57

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ja dyn ph i l l i p s Nomination By Scott Cohen

“Jadyn is a outstanding swimmer at Smoky Hill High School. She had a fantastic junior season at Smoky Hill, qualifying for the 5A State Championship meet in every individual swimming event (a very rare accomplishment). Her senior swim season is currently on hold until at least February, but Jadyn is still a positive role model and leader for her teammates during this time away from the pool.“ Interview Question What impact has your family or your parents had in just the way you view life or sports?

They’ve been super supportive throughout the whole process. My parents forced me to do anything. They always made sure that I got to try anything that I wanted and then figure out for myself. When it came down to taking swimming or something like that, they’re always super supportive, you know, they made sure to guide me but didn’t make sure they didn’t have too much input on it. They always say we will be here and we will support whatever you do, but it’s up to you to learn from your choices.

Read Full Interview at myblackcolorado.com/youth Pg. 58 | Featured Nominee

leslie koffi Nomination By Cassandra Berry

“Eli Berry (they/them) has experienced hardship due to being a non-binary black child in Colorado Springs. Through all of this, they have kept their head up and mind on the future. This future artist will wow not only the art community, but the Black community with their take on a non-traditional life in the black community.”

Interview Question What accomplishments or awards are you most proud of ?

Accomplishment wise, I’d say finding myself because I used to stress about who or what I am, but I’m comfortable with it now. About five years ago, I started exploring myself because I started thinking and feeling like I don’t think I’m a girl. So I started looking into it and I’ve gone through many things like different identities, names, etc. Then I finally found one that I’m comfortable with as well as my friends.

I’m not confined to just one sex at all, and I’m just fluid in whatever.

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Jayl e a n F r a n ck Interview I am a freshman at UCCS and I am majoring in Computer engineering. I aspire to be the best person I can be every day, and I stay driven to the end goal of success in my life. I push myself to new challenges and am constantly setting goals so I can set higher standards not only for me but for peers and family around me. I won’t settle for nothing less than the best and will take every opportunity that is presented to me in the future.

What is the best advice someone has given you recently?

The best advice I have received is to always keep a smile on my face. This has been the best advice to me because a smile can do so much for you. It brings less stress on you in life, makes others smile and it looks great on you.

Je’n ia m a n n in g Nomination By Dr. Mike Lamphere

“After nearly 20 years in education, she is without a doubt in the top 1% of the students I have encountered. Intelligence, poise, charisma, empathy, grit, leadership, and courage; Je’Nia has it all. Many students say they want to make the world a better place, Je’Nia just does it. I admire her restless curiosity.

The term renaissance woman comes to mind. On the days that the National Honor Society would meet, Je’Nia would swing by my office to hang out and chat.

Art, music, philosophy, literature, history, and science were topics she was eager to discuss. On top of a robust class load and leadership positions in many student organizations, she wanted more. I’d give her names and she would devour their works, assimilate them, and wield them with surgical precision. No topic is too complex for her all-consuming intellect.”

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Featured Nominee | Pg. 59

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jor da n co b u r n Nomination By Holli Coburn

“For being an outstanding scholar-athlete at Rangeview High School. Currently, Jordan has a 4.5 GPA, he is an aspiring aerospace or mechanical engineer. He is an active member of The National Honor Society, as well as a member of the RHS Varsity Football and Baseball. His hobbies Coaching little league football as an assistant, working, and reading the Bible. Jordan attributes his success to GOD, his parents, grandparents, and Pastors Alvin and Carmel Simpson of our church home, Emmanuel Christian Center!”

Interview Question What is the best advice someone has given you recently?

The best advice I’ve ever heard is just to be yourself and be who you indeed are and don’t try to change who you are to fit someone else’s image.

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Pg. 60 | Featured Nominee

just yce sa n d lin Nomination By Rob Sandlin

“Justyce is an exemplary student, captain of the step team but more importantly a strong community leader and an amazing leader and supporter of her friends and family. Justyce is a selfless young lady who is always trying to help others.”

Interview Question What accomplishments or awards are you the proudest of and why?

I’m the proudest of achieving the Delta Sigma Award. The award is an achievement award for students selected from about 50 nominations and had an average of 4.0 GPA for more than two years.

You are also a part of the Delta Sigma Honor Society.

That was a proud moment for me because I strive to be the best at school with my grades and it was nice to gain recognition for that.

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Ke l a j a n a e Cu r ry Nomination By Melva Hall

“Kelajanae Curry is an honor student at Sierra High School. She is a dual enrolled student who is involved in the Peak Education program. She is involved in the Elevated Program sponsored through the SACHS Foundation and is a Stroud Scholar through Colorado College.

She started her leadership experience during the 8th grade at Panorama Middle School where she was student body president. She has attended the STEM camp for three years where has learned how to become a good leader. She is currently in student council and was the first “Student of the Month” for the 20-21 school year. All of these programs have given her the opportunity to do volunteer service throughout the community.”

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n i’a sia a li Nomination By Melva Hall

“Ni’Asia Ali is a sophomore at Sierra High School.

She is a 4.0 GPA dual enrolled student who works diligently towards her education. She loves to write and has a creative gift in it. She is a member of “Elevated” which is a sponsored program through the SACHS Foundation that mentors high school students toward their college career. She is also a member of the Delta Sigma Theta, Inc. GEMS, Sierra Student Council, volleyball, cheerleading, and is in the Student Ambassador Leadership through Educating Children of Color. She has volunteered at Care and Share and Agape Ministries during the prime time of the pandemic helping to distribute food in the community to those in need. Last year she was selected for the Shroud Scholars Program through Colorado College and started last summer.”

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Featured Nominee | Pg. 61

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s a’ da i v e o n n e w e l l Nomination By Ilasiea Gray

“He is an outstanding young man and artist who impacted his former school (Denver School of the Arts) and his community in such meaningful ways.

He is a writer and actor, and even wrote and directed the school’s Black History show last year. He was also a recipient of an impactful award from the school before he graduated. He is now a freshman in college out of state, and is pursuing a degree in theatre and political science” What do you think others would say that they like the most about you?

I think people would say that they most like my confidence and passion! Anyone who knows me knows that I put my absolute all into everything I do. My passion for anything I touch creatively is so strong that it presents itself in my confidence. I am very proud of everything I do which many people can see.

sh on ciré gra h a m Nomination By Eric Graham

“Academic and leadership success at Howard University” Interview Question What do you think you want to do for a career and why?

I want to be a lawyer, and as of now, specifically in the international law, trade, and policy sector. My interests in speaking, researching, and academia contribute to my career aspirations, however, being born and growing up for some time in Germany has always inspired me to connect with other cultures and to travel. Whether I choose international law or not, I know that I want to practice law.

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a b e l s h aw Nomination By Angelia Baker

I came to know Abel, through his mother. However, what I learned about Abel did not come from what his mother told me. It came from him on a long snowy ride to the hospital. Abel is one of the drivers for Generation Drive Thru a youth led program in which Compound of Compassion makes food deliveries to those in need in the community. I had reached out to his mother letting her know that I was scheduled to have a medical procedure and would not be able to drive for 4-6 weeks. She added me to the list of food deliveries. One day when Abel was making a food delivery, he noticed that I didn’t come to the door.

He became concerned because that was not normal for me. He had his mom call me. When she did, I explained that I was in alot of pain, I could barely move and felt like I needed to go to the emergency room. His mother relayed this information to Abel and he immediately sprung into action asking if I could make it to the door to let him in. I managed to get to the door and Abel got me to the car and safely to the hospital.

Ch a un cy joh n son Nomination By Eastlake High School Staff

“Chauncey Johnson is an amazing young man.

Through all adversity, especially the death of a very close friend, he has not allowed his anger to turn to hate. Rather, he has been instrumental in the Black Lives Matter protests throughout Colorado Springs, CO. Chauncey is a positive and vocal representation for his generation. Despite the risks of going out in today’s very unstable racial climate, he made his voice heard and his tall stature visible to those passing by during the recent protests. He presented himself with respect to himself and to others undeserving of his respect so that his message could be heard unadulterated.

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Featured Nominee | Pg. 63

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ima ni l i ge Interview Questions The first one was, what school do you attend?

And what year are you?

I’m currently a sophomore at the University of Denver. I’m a business major, entering the marketing or management degree with an entrepreneurship concentration and a minor in leadership.

What’s your goal or desire to do with that degree?

I want to use my degree to go back into my community and help others build businesses with the knowledge I have to attain rather than having people go to college and try to pay for it. I want to give it out and help people through my leadership degree. I also hope to go into nonprofit communities and help them build a solid foundation to get more money and make it more profitable for the communities they’re trying to provide for. And then overall, with the entrepreneurship degree, I want to start my business.

So that marketing management degree will help hone in this digital age skills to understand how to do that, especially with everything changing so quickly.

j o h n p res t o n h am p t o n Nomination By Makisha Boothe

“John is a young social activist and entrepreneur who owns LMK productions. He has partnered up with a group of young people to do projects like their latest video series on IG called “Cut the Small Talk” – @cutthesmalltalkpodcast. They gather with local leaders to discuss the impact of politics, economics and more on the young Black Gen Z community.”

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kam eelah sim s-taylor

k e i ya s ha g r a nd b er ry

Nomination By Deborah Sims-Fard

Interview

Interview

“I own a tie dye & jean fashion custom clothing brand! I’m also a college student at UCCS. In this last year my clothing brand, Kween Kreations, has taken off!

“I was born and raised in Denver. A lot of my family was around when I was younger and living in Colorado. A lot of them are still there. That’s where my base is, I have many friends, family, school connections, activists, and grassroots connections in Denver, but I left for high school. I actually went to high school in California at a boarding school, then college in Atlanta, and now I’m in law school, back in San Francisco. So yeah, born and raised in Denver and I would call it home.”

What do you think others would say that they like about you the most and why?

I would say that people like my ability to bring together all the voices in the room, be able to highlight all the perspectives, really be conscious of inclusivity, and making sure that all voices are heard.

I’ve been working with amazing photographers & I’m able to release new designs pretty frequently! I’ve also participated in pop up shops and collaborated with other brands! As a fashion designer I want more fashion coming out of Colorado! There is an abundance of young black designers here and if we all come together we can change the fashion scene!

Uniquely enough I am a hippie. My brand represents so many parts of who I am in my day-to-day life.

I aspire to spread more love, more creativity, and of course more eye catching looks!”

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Mario Wilson Interview Questions What do you think others would say that they like the most about you?

Others would say they like how I am grounding, caring, and passionate about the things I love. The reason for this is because I use my time to work on projects that I care about. Mostly, I am an aspiring healer. I want to care for my community. It grounds me and I want to help heal the parts and people I love most in them.

When you are not in a class, what are the things you enjoy being involved with?

I enjoy fitness, eating out at restaurants, volunteering, hiking, and cooking for others. Also, I love to make Herbal medicines with those who I am close with.

These activities allow me to break from how busy my life is and offer me space.

Read Full Interview at myblackcolorado.com/youth Pg. 66 | Featured Nominee

Olivia la n gley Interview

I have been dancing since I was four years old and have studied under Cleo Parker Robinson Dance, Denver School of the Arts, Colorado Youth Dance Theater, and Kim Robard’s Dance Company. My education at The University of Colorado at Colorado Springs has given me the opportunity to perform in student choreographed works and with artists such as Julian Barnett, Dohee Lee, and Elliot Mercer – as well as companies such as David Dorfman Dance Company and Ormao Dance Company. I’ve also begun teaching dance for students of middle and high school ages.

I decided to pursue acting because I really enjoyed placing myself as a black woman into narratives generally constructed for Euro-Americans – as a way to deconstruct the harm that colonialism has done to the theatrical cannon. I have performed in multiple student and faculty productions such as “Blackademics” and “Hair: The Musical” among others.

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Nomine e s

S ier ra jar mo n Nomination By Karen B Miller

“Sierra is 23, going to school full time, and working during the same period. When she is home during break, she is continually active in reaching out to the community. Sierra loves life, people, and the Lord. She is the epitome of a responsible, enthusiastic young woman striving toward her goals with determination even through a wildfire, pandemic, and isolation. A pleasure to know and work with even in a social or business setting. A great role model for upcoming young women.”

Nomination By Joel Longberry

“Sierra is a young woman of excellent character. She is always encouraging others even in the midst of this Covid crisis. There are many young women today… but there are few young ladies. She is a wonderful example of what a woman of character actually is.”

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t i a nna t e r r e ll Nomination By Desiree Terrell Interview Questions

What accomplishments are you proud of ?

I am a double-time RMAC champion in the 400m hurdles. I was nominated for Western’s NCAA Woman of the Year for the 2019-2020 track and field year. I am most proud of these accomplishments because I ran track all my life and trained.

I recently graduated from Western State Colorado University, where I received my bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in Marketing.

What is the best advice you got recently?

If you are not uncomfortable, you’re not growing.

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Featured Nominee | Pg. 67

N om inees

B ro o klyn Luc ket t Nomination By Jessica Newsome

Excelling in academics, being a faithful and active member of New Life Christian Fellowship-Denver, being a changemaker. Was a forerunner in the name change of DSST Montview, and due to preserving through all hurdles that come her way.

What is the best advice that someone has given you recently?

I feel the best advice is probably something my mom said to me. She said whatever you put out into the world is what you get in return. So you just have to block out all the negative energy and just make sure you’re putting good things into the air. That’s what you get back.

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Pg. 68 | Featured Nominee

Br i a na Ge t e r Nomination By Nohea March

“Briana is attending college at UCCS and majoring in Psychology. She has been serving on her mother’s, Lisa Jenkin, nonprofit board for a few years now, and has been a staff member at Kingdom Builders Family Life Center for over a year. She knows what she wants and is doing the work to get to where she wants to be as a therapist.

Working with families dealing with domestic violence isn’t easy, yet here she is putting in the amazing work that she does!

Juggling school, working a full time job, and helping with her big family, she is an amazing young woman.

I have only known her for a short time; however, in that time, I have grown to admire her and where she is going in life. I know she can better tell her story and all that she has accomplished so far!”

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nomine e s

Leon Tsyganok-williams Nomination By Constance Cheatham “Humanitarian (Community Involvement)”

Interview With Leon

What do you think others would say that they like about you?

They would say that I am quiet and I’m humble because I like to know them before I talk. I’m humbled because I’m friendly and respect them.

When you’re not in classes what are things you enjoy being involved with?

I like to help the homeless and play sports like basketball, soccer, and flag football. I also do community events with my mom.

What is the best advice someone has given you recently?

My mom and Dad always tell me to be kind and respect others.

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m a ria h h ofm a n n Nomination By Leslie Garza

“I am nominating Mariah because she demonstrates excellent academic achievement, amazing leadership skills, and the ability to be resilient during this past year of Covid-19.”

Interview With Mariah

“ I believe others would see me as a determined and hardworking person because I proceed to try my hardest and always go the extra mile. When I’m not in the classroom I still try to do my best even if it’s just hanging out with my friends, playing basketball, and even art. My mom has always been good with giving advice but specifically, this piece of advice that has stuck with me, never try to impress others and just be myself. I think the reason why this advice has stuck with me is that I’ve realized that I was putting too much pressure on myself to be “perfect” and now I can focus on me.”

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Featured Nominee | Pg. 69

P r emier Spons or Pi kes Pea k C o m m uni ty C ol l e ge // 719- 50 2 - 2 0 0 0 // ppcc. e d u // a d mis s io ns @ppcc. e d u

PPCC is the largest and most diverse college in the Pikes Peak region. Established in 1968 and accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, PPCC offers associate degrees, certifications in career and technical fields and three bachelors’ degrees. With three campuses, various off-campus locations, two military education centers, and hundreds of online classes, PPCC provides access to a quality, affordable and flexible education to more than 20,000 students annually with both credit and non-credit classes.

• • • • • • •

Our average class size is 16.

We offer transferrable credits to UCCS, CSU, Regis and many other four-year colleges and universities throughout the nation.

26% of our students are connected to the military.

PPCC contributes $390.3 million to the local economy.

PPCC students receive a rate of return of 13% on the money they invest in tuition.

PPCC awards $1 million in scholarships annually. Most students who apply for scholarships or financial aid get assistance.

Our nationally accredited Child Development Center provides quality care and educational services for children from 6 weeks to 5 years old.

V i s i t one o f o u r c am p u ses

Ce n t e n n ial c a m p u s

R a m part range c ampus

D ow ntow n stud i o camp us

5675 South Academy Boulevard Colorado Springs, CO 80906

2070 Interquest Parkway Colorado Springs, CO 80921

100 West Pikes Peak Avenue Colorado Springs, CO 80903

Pg. 70 | Featured Sponsor

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Th an k you P i kes P eak C ommu nit y Col l e ge F or sponsori ng Si las Blanc h ard’s Fe at ur e page

s i l a s b l a n ch a r d Nomination by John Stoesser “Outstanding academic achievement”

I am 17 years old and in the 12th grade. I have been concurrently enrolled in both Pikes Peak Community College and Colorado Springs Early Colleges High School. I will be graduating in May with an Associates of Science Degree from PPCC and my High School Diploma. I have a GPA of 4.33.

During my high school career, I have focused mainly on high-level Math and Science courses, in my last semester of High school, I will be taking College level Chemistry and college-level Calculus at PPCC. What do you think others would say they like the most about you?

People like that I am always willing to lend a helping hand. I enjoy helping others. When there is a need at my church or in my community I have always been available to them.

I enjoy immersing myself in other cultures and learning languages. My goal is to become a polyglot, someone who knows several languages. This will help me to gain a broader perspective of the wider world than I otherwise would have.

I want to get better at understanding the perspectives of others. As it stands, it takes great effort to appreciate the perspectives and worldviews of others for me. This is a vital life skill, so I must understand it.

What accomplishments or awards are you most proud of ?

I am most proud of my opportunity to earn an associates degree and high school diploma at the same time, for no cost to me or my family. It is a unique opportunity that most do not get.

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Featured Nominee | Pg. 71