Equity Institute Meetup February 2025

"When everything around you is beyond your control and you shatter, you find within you a space of solitude, peace, and refuge that allows you to begin to gather yourself again."

-Barbara Holmes

We’re excited to kick off the new year with our first meetup, The Power of Connection on Wednesday, February 26th, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at . This gathering is a welcoming space for educators, teacher assistants, community leaders, and educational leaders to come together for an impactful evening of networking, connection, and reflection.

Our February meetup is dedicated to celebrating Black History and the individuals in our communities who are making a difference by serving young learners. While we honor Black history throughout the year, this special event will focus on creating an intentional space to elevate voices and build stronger communities.

Here’s what to expect during the evening:

• Eat + Learn: Enjoy incredible dishes prepared by the talented students of the Genesis Center Chef Training Program. Inspired by traditional techniques yet elevated with modern creativity, every dish honors culture and innovation equally.
• Community Connections: Build meaningful relationships with passionate, like-minded individuals who care deeply about education and community well-being.
• Equity-Centered Focus: Celebrate the tireless efforts of educational leaders working to close gaps and address inequities in education.

We’ll sip, share, and build, all while fostering a space of meaningful connections and fellowship. Our mission remains steadfast—to improve the educational landscape by supporting our learners, educators, and communities in meaningful and equitable ways.

RSVP now to secure your spot. Join us to forge friendships, support good people, and build positive connections.

*As always, delicious food, wine, beer, and beverages will be provided.

Our dynamic speaker lineup for the event includes:

Special Education Teacher, Providence School District

Nicole-Nzinga Darden has spent the last 20 years working with at risk and high needs children. She began her career on Chicago's South Side as a tutor and mentor and later as the director of academic programming and college advising for a small community based non-profit. She graduated from Pomona College in southern California with a degree in English and Creative Writing and earned her Master's in Childhood General and Special Education from Pace University through the New York City Teaching Fellows program. This is her 12th year teaching inside the classroom.

As a child of engineers with a lifelong love for learning, Nicole-Nzinga loves tapping into children's natural curiosity about the world and helping them to make meaning from what they investigate and observe. She believes that joy makes learning flourish and hopes to build a joyful community with her students.

Founder & Chief Storyteller, Based on a True Story (BOATS)

Jude is a storyteller, entrepreneur, and marketing strategist who empowers individuals and organizations to embrace their unique narratives. As the founder of Based on a True Story (BOATS), he transforms personal and organizational journeys into compelling stories. His mission is to reveal the greatness within every individual, guided by the belief that everyone has a unique story to tell. He offers tailored personal branding solutions, narrative building, and workshops, empowering others to own their stories.

Jude's own life is a testament to resilience, having reframed his struggles with sickle cell anemia into a story of triumph. His impactful career spans education, marketing, and advocacy, including roles with Lifespan’s Patient Action Committee and Nowell Academy. He is a University of Rhode Island graduate with a degree in Criminology and Political Science and a certification in Marketing Strategy from Cornell University.

Director of Career Development and Education, Inspiring Minds

Kia Minor is a passionate leader with a diverse background spanning education, coaching, and finance. Currently the Director of Career Development and Education at Inspiring Minds, she empowers the next generation of educators. Kia's experience also includes building a successful financial strategy business focused on women and coaching collegiate basketball to record-breaking seasons. She is driven by a deep commitment to mentorship, community impact, and continuous growth.

Kia is deeply involved in her community, serving as a Junior Board Member for Shooting Touch and hosting the Fearless Narratives podcast. She holds a Master's degree in Sport Business from Manhattanville College and a Bachelor's degree in Education and Sociology from Framingham State University. Kia's dedication to personal and professional growth, combined with her passion for making a difference, defines her impactful career.

Host or Publisher Equity Institute