Accelerate Access

Victoria Bofill, 2022 Nyah Fellow and University of Florida Gator, sits down with Leigh-Ann to discuss Hispanic representation and storytelling in film and theatre, being a twin, and her passion for educational equity, which stems from her experience with Breakthrough Miami. Also find out how she won over $1 million in scholarships to attend college debt-free and her advice for overcoming self-doubt, plus more! "Don't let big opportunities scare you away from applying to them. Just apply…and be yourself." - Victoria Bofill They also discuss: Becoming comfortable as a unique individual, especially with a twin sister Her dream for financial stability Her passion for individual storytelling  How her childhood helped her with adaptability and being such a good packer How interviewing for Nyah Project helped her get out of her comfort zone Her first impressions of Ghana and pulling her first all-nighter in country Learning about her superpower (analytical)  Her college application experience and support from peers and coaches Why she admires Richard Branson and his efforts to promote dyslexia awareness  Her advice to seize opportunities and avoid comparisons Finding joy in exploring different activities, such as sports and film

Juasline Plasencia⁠, 2019 Nyah Fellow and first generation college graduate from Hamilton College, sits down with Leigh-Ann to discuss everything from transitioning to adulthood, to her most memorable moments from her Nyah Project fellowship to Ghana, to uplifting indigenous communities. Also find out how she became a Posse Scholar to help pay for college and what it’s like for her to be an art teacher at her alma mater, Southridge Senior High School! "We truly do have the ability to create the lives that we want as long as we take advantage of the resources that are available to us." - Juasline Plasencia They also chat about: Creating spaces for growth, belonging, and peace  Her core values, from mindfulness to automy, empathy to peace Being the youngest of six siblings and growing up in New Jersey with a single mother Mental health in a Caribbean migrant family Understanding hidden racism and microaggressions How Nyah Project changed the trajectory of her life Why Ghana reminded her of her ancestral home, the Dominican Republic Her love for experiential learning and traveling Why we should respect indigenous communities and lands to mitigate the negative impacts of modern society

Heavyn Lee, 2019 Nyah Fellow and Harvard University student, sits down with Leigh-Ann to discuss her passion for home building and interior design, her aspirations to study law to help those traditionally disadvantaged by the legal system, and . Also, find out how her reflective experiences in Bali as part of her Nyah Project Fellowship and Access coaching helped her win the prestigious Gates Scholarship to attend Harvard! "It's a very eye-opening thing to realize as a child that the resources that you need to succeed are not in your community." - Heavyn Lee They also discuss: Ideas of perfection and vulnerability Learning to ask for help Moving frequently in pursuit of better educational opportunities Family dynamics and being raised primarily by women The idea of “home” and its impact on one’s sense of belonging Her Nyah Project fellowship to Bali, Indonesia and the significance of community building Learning time management and prioritization during the college application process How she got accepted into top universities, like Harvard, Yale, and Columbia

In this bonus episode of Accelerate Access: The Podcast, Leigh-Ann Buchanan turns it over to several Nyah Fellows to share a little bit more about Access Online – why we need it, how it works, and why you should use it, too. The tips and information in the college coaching platform have helped students win over $30 million in scholarships.

James Brown-Urmeneta, 2023 Nyah Fellow and Questbridge Scholar at Boston College, sits down with Leigh-Ann to discuss his journey from doubt to confidence as key to his success and being limitless, his first international travel experience for his Nyah Project Fellowship to Morocco, and the power of vulnerability in building relationships. Also find out why he admires LeBron James’ as a leader and cares about solving world hunger, plus more! "People deserve to be able to have access to food and water. It's a basic need, and I think it's something that should be fulfilled for everyone, whether or not they're able to afford it." - James Brown-Urmeneta They also chat about: Where he finds peace in the city Taking risks and overcoming challenges Developing a mindset of abundance and re-framing his relationship with money Taking on the role of translator in his family and navigating his father’s absence at a young age Being a Teaching Fellow for Breakthrough Miami Navigating roadblocks while choosing to go after opportunities for himself The selection process to becoming a Nyah Project Fellow How Access Online and Access Coaching helped him write a winning personal statement Cross-cultural connections and exploring the markets in Morocco Effective leadership  Sharing lived experiences to create more empathy and awareness Being more open to people and opportunities

Tyler McCray, 2021 Nyah Fellow and Tennessee State University student, sits down with Leigh-Ann to discuss how he’s working towards his career goal in physical therapy, closing the wealth disparity gap, and honing his creative and entrepreneurial skills. Also find out what his most memorable experiences were during his Nyah Project fellowship to Ghana, how he got a full ride to college, and more! "Seeing my community be forced to change and not being able to fund itself is why I would solve the wealth disparity issue [with a magic wand]. " - Tyler McCray They also chat about: The concepts of human performance and connecting physical performance with mental fortitude Finding joy in what you do and trusting your own abilities  Following your intuition and not second guessing yourself to seize opportunities Overcoming discomfort during the Nyah Project application process Visiting the Human Factor Leadership Academy with Dr. Senyo and the slave castles along the Ghanian coast Being a voice of reason for others Growing up in an unpredictable neighborhood and the role of a loving, supportive family  The importance of being kind His entrepreneurial journey with his younger brother during to raise funds for charity during the pandemic The benefits of Access Online in his college application process Why he admires his boss, Mr. Valentine, who runs the summer camp that he works for Making the most of his college experience by exploring different passions and interests

Brandon Zamudio, 2022 Nyah Fellow and first generation student at Yale University, sits down with Leigh-Ann to discuss the importance of empathy, the challenges of pursuing success in a socioeconomically disadvantaged context, and what he learned about himself and vulnerability during his Nyah Project fellowship to Ghana. Also find out why he’s studying economic policy and how he plans to address issues in his own community before expanding impact nationally (or even globally!), plus more. "If people were truly more empathetic…I truly think that this world would be a better place and could target issues from climate change to poverty to food insecurity. " - Brandon Zamudio They also chat about: The importance of uplifting others His aspirations and how he can use his educational experiences to make a positive impact Overcoming fear and imposter syndrome Navigating cultural and socio-economic differences as a first generation Mexican and Peruvian American His admiration for his older brother, Miguel, especially in the pursuit of higher education  Self-imposed pressure and success measurements How he learned different values from the Nyah Project interview process  How Access Online and Access coaching helped him not only with time management, but getting enough scholarships to attend Yale University Why he looks up to Francesca Covey, Chief of Economic Innovation and Development for Miami-Dade County, as a leader The role of economic policy and resource access in shaping communities The beauty of creating something that you love

Melvin Rivers, 2014 Nyah Fellow and physical education teacher in Orlando, FL, sits down with Leigh-Ann to discuss the evolution of his purpose and career path, being adopted and finally reconnecting with his biological family, and how volunteering for weekly food drives shaped his childhood. Also find out what it was like for Melvin to be a guinea pig as part of the first Nyah Project Fellowship cohort a decade ago and the leadership lessons he learned then that he still carries to this day, plus more! "Get hands-on experience as much as you can to get that exposure…. Exposure gives you an open mind to conquer any goal." - Melvin Rivers They also chat about: How he fell in love with sports and fitness, and how he’s using them to create a positive impact  Creating little experiences of love and appreciation for those around him Personal values and learning the importance of gratitude, servant leadership, empathy, and community impact from a young age His Nyah Project fellowship to Ghana, memories at the Human Factor Leadership Academy with Dr. Senyo and the hike to Wli Waterfalls Being a UCF alum and pursuing his master’s degree in sports management Taking advantage of any resources available for the college process His admiration for his mentor, Coach Ernest Wynn at Deltona Middle School The power of experiential learning and needed changes in the education system His advice to his younger self and future generations

Jose Prieto, 2018 Nyah Fellow and University of Miami alum, sits down with Leigh-Ann to discuss his lifelong journey to becoming a musician and educator in Palo Alto, CA; how moving out (and across the country) helped his relationship with his parents; and his Nyah Project fellowship experience in Ghana with Dr. Senyo Adjibolosoo. Also find out how he defines community and how he’s shaping the future, plus more! "Music really is a great way to see leaders in action." - Jose Prieto They also chat about: Growing up first generation Cuban-American in the city of progress, Hialeah, Florida Mental health awareness in the Hispanic community The benefits of Access coaching in a small group setting The most rewarding part of his job as a music educator How his first band director, Vicky Orozco, inspired his career path How he’s helping younger generations build a better future The power of journaling and reflection

Ayden Wilson, 2022 Nyah Fellow and Florida Atlantic University student, sits down with Leigh-Ann to discuss how Nyah Project helped him get out of his comfort zone, systemic racism in America, and his highs and lows from Ghana. Also find out how he’s combining his passion for sports and statistics with his career pursuits, plus more! "The biggest challenge for me right now is systemic racism in America. I feel like not enough people are doing enough, especially in our government, and I feel like they need to." - Ayden Wilson They also chat about: Challenges with self-perception, particularly with self-doubt and undervaluing personal achievements Relationships and connections His Nyah Project fellowship experience in Ghana, from late night talks to waterfalls His Jamaican and English roots How Access Online gave him a blueprint for the college admissions process Nerding out on data analytics His love for music and hip hop Why Kendrick Lamar inspires him The importance of creating spaces for all voices to be heard

Ana Gonzalez, 2019 Nyah Fellow and Texas A&M alum, sits down with Leigh-Ann to discuss starting her own business, her vision for improving the education system to be more equitable and brain-based learning. Also find out how her Nyah Project experience in Bali, Indonesia, transformed her and how Access Online helped her for her master’s program, plus more! "Everyone has a purpose in this world. Do not let anybody dim your light. Be confident, and just be you." - Ana Gonzalez They also discuss: Rediscovering who she is after finishing her master’s degree in Instructional Design Being the first-born in an immigrant Hispanic family Finding peace during her gap year Shifting from resentment to gratitude to form better relationships  Starting her own business Why she applied for the Nyah Project fellowship twice  Why she admires in the sports industry and why How she’s going to change the world

D'Angelo Valdez, 2016 Nyah Fellow and Syracuse University alum, sits down with Leigh-Ann to discuss his journey from childhood poverty to becoming an educator in Atlanta, using tech for good, and his transformative Nyah Project fellowship experience to Ghana. Also find out what his hopes and dreams are for his young family, and more! "It's not [about] creating another leader; it's more so giving another opportunity to show how they are a leader." - D’Angelo Valdez They also chat about: The beauty and creativity of artists Overcoming fear as an adult and a new parent Positive interventions from mentors Changing mindsets around the possibility of college access and higher education How he identified his life’s calling His transformative experience in Ghana for his Nyah Project fellowship, along with college access coaching Fatherhood and creating a better life for his growing family Why he admires Lebron James Solving the school-to-prison pipeline The role of technology in shaping future generations

Naveen Siddiqui, 2021 Nyah Fellow and student at the University of Florida, sits down with Leigh-Ann (before flying to Brazil as a Critical Language Scholar!) to discuss first impressions, star gazing in rural Ghana, and why she decided to wear the hijab. Also find out how she transferred skills from Access Online to secure some pretty cool academic and professional development opportunities, both domestically and abroad, plus more! "I learned that I need to trust myself in order to have the freedom that I want." - Naveen Siddiqui They also chat about: Her Pakistani background What she learned from college rejections  Growing up in Western Canada before moving to Miami to live her “conscious life” Navigating misinformation around Islam with non-Muslims Why she applied for Nyah Project’s Global Youth Leadership Fellowship and her experience in rural Ghana The importance of authenticity and vulnerability in relationship-building  Why she admires David Attenborough as a leader Fearing change and the need to embrace it to make an impact Leading from the heart

Louise Gong-McGovern, 2022 Nyah Fellow and University of Florida student, sits down with Leigh-Ann to discuss her unique upbringing between China and the United States, what activities this thrill-seeker loved most during her Nyah Project fellowship to Ghana, and how she builds and maintains relationships. Also find out this first gen student secured the bag to get paid to go to college and more! "There are so many countries where women and girls are unable to go to school because of the prejudices and the misogyny that exists, and I hope that one day, that will no longer exist." - Louise Gong-McGovern They also discuss: The balance between happiness and being continuously challenged Being raised predominantly by her grandmother Reconciling her relationship with her separated parents Navigating different cultural and academic environments in both China and South Florida Navigating the college application process as a first gen student Access Online providing the tools to support her journey to the University of Florida Her admiration for Dr. Lauren Adamo’s leadership and support at Broward College Her desire to solve educational inequality, especially for girls and women, and combat sustainability issues

Alvin Huezo, a 2017 Nyah Fellow currently working in the commercial real estate industry, sits down with Leigh-Ann to discuss affordable housing and community development, therapy and cultural barriers to mental health, and (re)building your life during (and after) college. Also find out how the Emory University and Florida International University alumnus became a Nyah Fellow and what his most memorable experiences are from his fellowship to Namibia, South Africa, and London! "I really do love pursuing wisdom and just trying to find out that bigger answer to everything. When you travel, I think you get closer to figuring out that answer." - Alvin Huezo They also discuss: Moving to Miami and growing up in the Little Haiti neighborhood Housing instability in a single parent household Self-improvement, self-awareness, and the process of gaining clarity  Vulnerability and reconciling with his estranged father How Emory University changed his life The role of oppression and resistance in society  The endless pursuit of wisdom  Why he stays connected to Nyah Project  The ongoing impact that his mentor, Stuart Sheldon, has had on his life His roots in El Salvador Struggles with perfectionism and more

Isabel Armedilla, 2019 Nyah Fellow and recent University of Florida graduate, sits down with Leigh-Ann to discuss imposter syndrome, the birth of Access Online, and why she focuses on equity issues, especially as it relates to education and healthcare. Also find out more about her Nyah Project Fellowship experience to Bali, Indonesia, and more! "There is so much collaboration that is needed to bring humanity to the forefront. It's really important to recognize that we can amplify voices without compromising our own and overtaking those who are being affected." - Isabel Armedilla They also discuss: Challenges in overcoming self-doubt and self-criticism Learning to trust her intuition  Growing up with two Filipino immigrant families living under the same roof The emphasis of education to achieve a better life and the pressure of being first-generation The importance of intention, leadership, and personal growth during her Nyah Project Fellowship Climbing Mount Batur  Her aspiration to amplify voices and address fundamental needs Who inspires her to be more civically engaged Kindness to self and to others

Edward Leonard, 2015 Nyah Fellow and University of South Florida alumnus, sits down with Leigh-Ann to share his perspectives on love, independence and creativity, his experience attending a small college, and his love of literature in a state that’s banning book. Also find out more about the early (paper application!) years of Nyah Project and his fellowship experience in Costa Rica, plus more! "I was in a school system where books weren't being banned and we could have conversations with our teachers. I can't imagine what people are missing out on, on top of not being exposed to certain literature already.... All those things helped me with understanding all the different people that I meet as I go out and venture into this world. " -Edward Leonard They also discuss: His family dynamics growing up in the Coconut Grove neighborhood of Miami Unconditional versus transactional love Childhood coping mechanisms The importance of connection, authenticity, and vulnerability Which leaders inspire him  The importance of mentorship and responsibility towards others Journaling and self reflection Balancing his finance degree with his creative side, and more!

Nyla Seymour, 2019 Nyah Fellow and computer engineering major at the University of Central Florida, sits down with Leigh-Ann to discuss representation in STEM, emotional agility and becoming a “soft” leader, and what (and who) has helped unlock her own potential. Also learn why she values opportunities for cross-cultural connection, why she wants to open her own restaurant, and more! "It was really important for me to show up for myself in that way within the world, because I know that that's what I would want someone else to do if I were looking up to them and it's still hard. But anything that has great reward has great sacrifice." - Nyla Seymour They also discuss: The four ways she wishes to present herself the world The five things she would immediately do if she wasn’t afraid What her own podcast would be about Her thoughts on travel and digital nomadism Being the “golden child” in a single parent Caribbean household Shifting career goals Why she applied for Nyah Project twice and how she prepared  Her Nyah Project Fellowship to Bali, Indonesia The importance of understanding your personal leadership style Honest, truthful, and authentic ways of giving back 

Miles Mariano-Ortilla, 2019 Nyah Fellow, youth activist, and head coordinator of the TAP Scholarship Fund, sits down with Leigh-Ann all the way from Ritsumeikan University in Japan. They discuss why he struggles with the label “Filipino-American,” his concept of home as a self-proclaimed wanderer, and why he’s passionate about education access for all. Also find out how his Nyah Project experience inspired him to create a scholarship program in the Philippines, and more! "It's one of my principles that education is a human right, and that everyone deserves a fair and equal education, not only in the US or in the Philippines, but everywhere in the world." - Miles Mariano-Ortilla They discuss: Importance of service to youth Being on a joint-degree program between Ritsumeikan University in Japan and American University in Washington, D.C.  Navigating different cultural identities as both Filipino and American, in Miami and beyond His love for spontaneity and adventure to experience new places Leadership identity and how he prefers to lead from the back The influences of his Nyah Project fellowship to Bali, Indonesia, and visits to Stella’s Child, which inspired him to establish his own scholarship program in the Philippines Navigating the college application process as a first generation college student in the U.S., and the support he received through Nyah Project’s Access Coaching, especially with interviews and crafting his resume  His admiration for Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. as a trailblazer in social activism and pacifism  Grassroots activism and local community impact 

Jaida Houston, 2019 Nyah Fellow and soon-to-be graduate of Morris Brown College in Atlanta, sits down with Leigh-Ann to discuss life from Overtown to “Black Hollywood”, how she got interested in urban planning and development, and the need for community and a sense of belonging. Also find out more about Jaida’s journey to success at an HBCU, her take on the affordable housing crisis, and more! They also discuss: Her 3 biggest regrets The importance of being in a room where you’re well-represented The ties between kindness and vulnerability Why she had a broken spirit as a child despite having a great mother How her mother’s relationship with a man named Theodore exposed her to living in a house, new experiences and a more cultured lifestyle The history and current situation in Overtown, a historically black community in Miami known as the Harlem of the South, where Jaida grew up How the opportunity to travel, especially a homestay in Germany and to Indonesia with Nyah Project, became major turning points in her life The influence of teachers and mentors, especially from the Overtown Youth Center, on her life How to deal with rejection  The strong sense of community and belongingness that she would with the Nyah Project The importance of authenticity and persistence in achieving one’s goals hen your life is already set up how someone believes it to be, you have to be your own guardian angel and say, 'Okay, well, I'm not doing it. I'm gonna make my own path.'" - Jaida Houston

Dewayne Martin, 2017 Nyah Fellow and soon-to-be graduate of Hamilton College in New York, is a storyteller, organizer, and so much more. The youngest Nyah Fellow ever selected at 14, Dewayne sits down with Leigh-Ann to dive deep into his personal definition of freedom, the connection between his philosophical and emotional journey, and the importance of unlocking opportunities and individual narratives. Also find out Dewayne’s childhood dream and how he’s helping those around him figure out, “What do we want for this life?” They also discuss: The value proposition of an individual's ability to contribute Walking as a form of meditation Translating feelings of freedom into action Growing up in a single mother, queer matriarchal household and reconciling his relationship with an absent father Overcoming speech impediments and racial slurs in school “Being a 2020 Graduate Baby” and lost rites of passage due to COVID-19 Existential life questions  The importance of personal reconciliation and its broader societal implications Human factor leadership as an economics concept The disruptive nature of Nyah Project and its influence on his understanding of purpose, ability to identify and obtain resources, and his opportunities to travel to three countries The potential of unlocked opportunities in Miami and the need for local residents to benefit from and contribute to the city’s future “I think that when you are in precarious situations, you have no choice but to ask critical questions about your life." - Dewayne Martin

Angelica “Angie” Gonzalez, a 2016 Nyah Fellow pursuing her master’s degree at John Hopkins University, sits down with Leigh-Ann to discuss prioritizing personal needs over familial expectations and obligations, imposter syndrome as the gifted scholarship student at her high school, and how her Nyah Project Fellowship to Ghana sparked her passion for environmental justice. Also find out why she emphasizes open-mindedness and conversation to develop solutions, how she’s getting over being intimidated by meeting new people, plus more! “I thought open-mindedness meant more fear for me because it meant change, but I've become a more adaptable person with time. [C]hange can happen, but there's such a thing as positive change, which is good for not only me, but for other people.” - Angelica “Angie” Gonzalez They discuss: Being a paralegal in Washington, D.C. area How people coming together during the pandemic helped restore her faith in humanity  Moving from Miami to Syracuse, NY, for independence, seasons, and better alignment with her future goals How exposure and opportunities through organizations like Nyah Project played a big part in shaping who she is today and her college access journey Evaluating self-worth based on achievements or busyness  Her transformative Nyah Project experience, from meeting the U.S. Ambassador to Ghana, Robert P. Jackson, to visiting waterfalls and exploring the local market  Why leaders should always be willing to learn  The power of mentorship from Lanessa Owens-Chaplin and others to help develop her career roadmap The affordable housing crisis and climate gentrification The need for more equitable representation in policy, and more!

David Barbier, Jr., 2018 Nyah Fellow, 2019 Peer Facilitator, and Syracuse University graduate, sits down with Leigh-Ann for an emotional conversation to answer the question “who am I when no one is around?” and discuss the power of love. Also, find out why he considers himself both a dreamer and a doer, how he’s building his personal board of directors, and more! “I wish kids growing up knew what love felt like. As I learned to love other people, I've become aware that I was loved growing up, which is why I have the capacity to show love. I wish people felt love.” - David Barbier, Jr. They also discuss: His superpowers of imagination and connection The importance of quality time and understanding how you want + need to be loved  Navigating his parents’ divorce and spending a lot of time alone  His identity evolution, tossing out hypermasculinity, and embracing emotions His Nyah Project experiences, including embarrassing moments in Ghana, visiting a slave castle as a person with African ancestry, and mentorship His personal definitions of freedom and leadership Having positive role models, especially when transitioning to the professional world His admiration of and positive relationship with his father The need for kids to feel love and have opportunities that expand their worldview 

On this week's episode of Accelerate Access: The Podcast, Rita Vega, 2019 Nyah Fellow and University of Michigan graduate, sits down with Leigh-Ann to discuss visual storytelling to bridge gaps between diverse communities, her foundation story in Nicaragua, and early career struggles in the Big Apple. Also, find out why Rita focuses on the power of human connection and relationship building, and more! "Questions lead to intimacy, and I think that if you don't ask, you won't know, you won't understand, and you'll just be oblivious to something that could have changed your life.”  - Rita Vega They also discuss: Building trust, improving BIPOC representation, and sharing stories of inspiration, inclusion, and culture through her photography and creative work Treasuring the moment and being “in the flow” Human beings vs doings Reconciling identity from being raised by her extended family instead of her biological parents Immigration, language barriers, and the importance of education Leadership lessons from being class president at @saswhitetigers Learning to love herself and honor her self-worth, especially when facing constant job rejections  Her transformative Nyah Project Fellowship experience in Bali, Indonesia, and coming back as a peer facilitator in Ghana The impact that people such as Arturo Nunez, Marianna Lopez, Nicole Washington, and Dr. Marcus Collins, her professor and author of For the Culture, have had on her life The need for career pathway transparency to help others navigate challenges

Ian Rodriguez, 2021 Nyah Fellow and Florida State University student, sits down with Leigh-Ann to discuss his journey to self-awareness and self-expression, navigating queerness in an unwelcoming environment, and the importance of listening to younger generations. Also find out how the COVID-19 lockdown and Nyah Project played a large role in helping Ian grow as a person, and more! “I have to find spaces and places where I can think and be myself authentically because I’ve not been allowed that for so long.” - Ian Rodriguez They also discuss: Letting go of shame and fear Childhood pop star dreams  Finding spaces and places for introspection and being himself unapologetically  How Nyah Project gave him the tools and opportunity to truly express himself, as well as attend college for free Why he admires AOC The importance of closing the gaps in social inequity  How he’s starting with small actions to change the world, and more!

Kenya Handfield, 2020 Nyah Fellow and student at Spelman College in Atlanta, sits down with Leigh-Ann to discuss redefining success, friendship breakups and human connectivity, and owning your own narrative. Also find out how the death of a friend inspired her to give back and start Project FRESH, how she used Access Online to help her win over $1.5 million in scholarships, and more! “I definitely think that's how I define success: by continuously growing.” - Kenya Handfield They discuss: Dancing as a random act of kindness The importance of journaling  What Kenya learned about vulnerability, privilege and resources from her Nyah Project experience Passing through the Door of No Return at a slave castle in Ghana Her passion for education, and more!

Elijah Adorno, 2019 Nyah Fellow and University of Florida student, sits down with Leigh-Ann to discuss his ongoing process of learning and growth, balancing mental fortitude with physical strength, and desire for self-validation and contentment. Also find out what drives his accomplishments, early mornings, and desire to give back, and more! "By taking the characteristics of other leaders and putting them into that future person, you're kind of settling into who you're gonna be later on. And I think that always gives you passion to keep going forward." - Elijah Adorno They discuss:  Elijah’s purpose Curiosity and the need for more open-mindedness in society How his family dynamics shaped his personality and motivation The need for validation and self-worth Their morning routines for success Gaining clarity with Nyah Project and sunsets in Bali Understanding the various terms involved in the college application process Character development for leadership Improving communication to remove ego and pride

Anaisa Tate, 2018 Nyah Fellow, doula and nursing student, sits down with Leigh-Ann to discuss boldness to challenge societal norms, young motherhood, and the people and places that pushed her into her destiny. Also find out why Leigh-Ann called Anaisa a “young revolutionary” after their first meeting, and more. “Now I see there's so much opportunity, and to be able to really help women who look like me, who don't have access to the resources to have a healthy labor, to have a healthy pregnancy. It's just…I see the need for it, and I might as well just stand in the gap.” - Anaisa Tate They discuss: Anaisa’s perfect day Childhood influences and the impact of her parents’ divorce Challenges to accessing mental health resources The ups and downs of choosing to transform her life at 15 Her experience applying for Nyah Project’s Global Youth Leadership Fellowship twice The power of writing down your intentions How Access helped her go to Howard University for free Why her passion changed from pursuing law to helping women navigate the transition to motherhood Who she admires as a leader Why she wants to solve world hunger, and more!

Welcome to another episode of Accelerate Access: The Podcast! We share stories of how access to opportunity changes lives. Hosted by Nyah Project founder, Leigh-Ann Buchanan, the podcast provides an inside look into the transformational journeys of our Nyah Fellows as they navigate college, careers, and personal growth as young leaders in the community. This week’s guest is Adrian Oyola, 2022 Nyah Fellow and student at Loyola University in Chicago. Join him for his sit down with Leigh-Ann to discuss why representation matters, the challenges and rewards of living an authentic lifestyle, and how he’s going to make a difference in the world. Also find out how he got over $1.7 million in scholarships for college, why he became vegan, and more! “I want to make space where people from all walks of life – from different races, genders, ethnicities, social, economic classes, just from all different parts of the world – can be seen, can be heard and valued for who they are in their respective work environments, in their respective school environments, in whichever place that they may go to.” - Adrian Oyola They discuss: What’s most important to Adrian His childhood and weight loss journey  Coming out as gay and vegan in a Hispanic household Intersectionality and living an authentic lifestyle His core memories from his Nyah Project fellowship to Ghana How he got over $1.7 million in scholarships for college His views on leadership How he’s going to make a difference in the world, and more!

Tasfia Howlader, 2021 Nyah Fellow and student at Nova Southeastern University, sits down with Leigh-Ann to discuss personal growth and self-confidence, why she’s an advocate for women’s health and mental health, and her nonprofit focused on global education. Also, find out why she decided to wear the hijab, how she overcame dyslexia and how she stacked scholarships to go to college for free. “If I want there to be a shift, a little change, something to start that spark, it would have to start with conversations where I'm talking about it if no one else is willing to.” - Tasfia Howlader

Welcome to the third episode of Accelerate Access: The Podcast! We share stories of how access to opportunity changes lives. Hosted by Nyah Project founder, Leigh-Ann Buchanan, the podcast provides an inside look into the transformational journeys of our Nyah Fellows as they navigate college, careers, and personal growth as young leaders in the community. This week’s guest is Julio Burgos, 2015 Nyah Fellow and Syracuse University graduate. Join us as he sits down with Leigh-Ann to discuss his personal and professional growth – from immigrating from the Dominican Republic and being a first generation student to working in the finance industry in the Big Apple. Learn how he’s navigated his career with the help of mentors and internships at a Big Four firm, where he’s traveled to, and why he gives back! “What truly, truly drives me [is] that I know that I could be better than myself tomorrow than I am today.” - Julio Burgos They discuss: Julio’s childhood moving from the Dominican Republic to New York Hyper-independence and his definition of family What drives him as an immigrant and first generation student His experiences as a 2015 Nyah Fellow and traveling to Costa Rica Time, treasure, or talent - how he pays it forward Navigating Corporate America and representation in the workplace His views on leadership and how he shows up as a leader every day The importance of education, and more!

Daniela Flores, 2020 Nyah Fellow and student at Florida State University, sits down with Leigh-Ann for a heartfelt discussion about her undocumented father’s passing, her fellowship experience during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the importance of education for economic mobility. Tune in to discover Daniela's leadership insights and her vision for making a difference in healthcare. “I want to connect with people and actually give them a sense of, not hope, but a sense of relief when being in such a stressful environment.” - Daniela Flores on pursuing a career in healthcare

John Paul “JP” Mejia, 2019 Nyah Fellow and student at American University, sits down with our host + Nyah Project founder, Leigh-Ann Buchanan, to discuss his journey growing up with an incarcerated parent to becoming a national leader in climate justice. Also, find out what his superpowers are and the most impactful moments he had in Bali + Ghana with Nyah Project. “There is a difference between access and power, but they often go hand in hand.” - JP Mejia