Through FIERCE Advocates’ Community Education Leadership Institute (CELI), Tashii Johnson strengthened her leadership skills and stepped into a vital role on the Citizens’ Bond Oversight Committee, where she champions equity in local education funding. CELI equipped Tashii with the tools to lead with confidence, collaboration, and compassion, transforming her approach to advocacy and ensuring that the voices of children and families are heard in decision-making spaces.

Alex Spry shares his powerful reflections on Brilliance of Brotherhood, a FIERCE Advocates program dedicated to cultivating leadership, emotional intelligence, and self-reflection among young and adult men.

Inspired by James Allen’s As a Man Thinketh, the program fosters mentorship, relationship-building, and strategies for success. In his testimonial, Alex highlights the impact of creating spaces where men feel truly heard, supported, and empowered to grow.

From celebrating FIERCE’s 20 years of service to envisioning new possibilities for the future, Alex reminds us of the deep potential within community and brotherhood.

Watch his story and discover why the Brilliance of Brotherhood continues to inspire and uplift.

For Tannia Vargas, joining FIERCE’s Community Education Leadership Institute (CELI) was personal. As a parent, she wanted the tools to stand up for her children’s education. What she gained was the confidence and empowerment to lead. A Fall 2024 CELI graduate, Tannia now serves on the Citizen’s Bond Oversight Committee, ensuring that school construction funds are used with transparency, accountability, and equity for all West Contra Costa students and families.

Teresa Jenkins, Administrative Data & Evaluations Coordinator, reflects on what makes FIERCE different. We design programs based on what our community says it needs; whether that’s Zumba, gardening, or family game nights, and we elevate leaders from within. Some participants even become part of our staff team, continuing the cycle of empowerment!

Hear from Dulce Galicia, Policy and Advocacy Organizing Manager at FIERCE, as she shares what brought her back to the organization and why this work matters so deeply. For Dulce, FIERCE is more than a job. It’s a place where advocacy, healing, and community care come together to create lasting impact.

Lauren McCollins, CoCo Doulas Program Coordinator, reflects on how FIERCE Advocates centers relationships, reignites dreams, and walks with families at every stage of life. From early childhood through every transition that follows, Lauren shares how FIERCE’s “birth to beyond” model ensures no one is ever out of reach or left behind.

Watch Coco Doula, Alaafia Shambe, share how FIERCE is transforming birth outcomes and building lasting support for Black families. From prenatal care to school advocacy, Alaafia speaks to the deep impact of having someone by your side every step of the way.

Shukura Lattier, FIERCE’s Health and Wellness Program Coordinator, speaks to the leadership she sees rising, especially among Black women who are choosing to lead not just for their children but for collective healing and growth. A Richmond native and longtime youth advocate, Shukura reflects on what it means to light a spark and watch others carry it forward.