TRANSFORMATIVE JUSTICE
EDUCATOR FELLOWSHIP

TRANSFORMATIVE JUSTICE
EDUCATOR FELLOWSHIP

TRANSFORMATIVE JUSTICE
EDUCATOR FELLOWSHIP

We work in solidarity with educators to eradicate inequities shaping the school and life experiences of girls and young women of color.

EDUCATORS & YOUTH SERVICE PROVIDERS

COACHING & CURRICULUM SUPPORT

STIPEND PROVIDED

ABOUT THE PROGRAM

This program first launched in 2023! We are proud to welcome our third cohort this Fall. Transformative Justice Fellows (TJF) are pre- or in-service educators (i.e., teachers, counselors, social workers, school psychologist, para professionals, administrators, etc.) and community-based youth service providers committed to equity in education for our girls. They receive curricular support and personalized coaching to facilitate restorative circles for girls in need of mentorship and support to achieve their full potential.

FACILITATE SANKOFA SISTER CIRCLES

The circles TJF’s facilitate provide girls with the time, space, and knowledge to develop their voice, increase their confidence, hone restorative communication skills, and develop the consciousness necessary to become leaders at school and within their community. Circles also prepare educators to work in solidarity with girls to lead change efforts meant to transform classrooms and schools into places where all students achieve, feel safe, and thrive.

MEET OUR 2023-2024 FELLOWS

See pictures and bios below.

DOMINQUE COLE
DOMINQUE COLE
I have been a mentor to young African American girls for about 7 years and counting now. I currently work as a Site Coordinator/Case manager for a local high school and run a small young women’s group there as well. I have cultivated healthy relationships between these young women and have provided coping skills to assist them in changing their behavior for the best. I have mentored girls, aged 7-17 through my club track team as well.
AALIYAH GALWEY
AALIYAH GALWEY
I am a Queer, Black educator, artist, community leader, and activist. I use my voice and gifts to uplift my community and as an educator, ensure that Black girls are visible and cared for using a restorative justice approach. My beliefs are deeply rooted in the African Proverb “It Takes a Village to Raise a Child” and I heavily lean into the principles of Umoja (Unity) and Ujima (Collective Work) to foster a sense of community and shared responsibility within education. My pedagogy is based on my upbringing in the Las Vegas community, and I am dedicated to fostering my love and passion with the community that raised me.
ANA AVALOS GARCIA
ANA AVALOS GARCIA
I am an educator in Las Vegas who believes in the power of voice and is passionate about creating a safer space for Black babies.
MONIQUE NORTH
MONIQUE NORTH
I am an agent of change dedicated to manifesting greatness in myself and the next generation. Black women are underrepresented in STEM fields, facing unique challenges and barriers in male- dominated environments. In my role as an educator, I focus on empowering and uplifting Black Women to thrive in STEM fields. Throughout my career I have worked hard to cultivate a strong sense of self-worth and confidence, while also advocating for the representation and recognition of black women in STEM. I achieve this through mentorship, education, and creating supportive networks that provide opportunities for growth and success. Ultimately, my goal is to inspire and empower the next generation of black women to pursue their passions and ambitions in STEM, while also creating a more inclusive and equitable environment for all.
SHINIA WADE
SHINIA WADE
For over 7 years, I have dedicated myself to nurturing the potential of young people, particularly Black girls. My passion for early childhood education led me to own and operate a daycare, laying the foundation for my journey in youth development. I have extensive experience working with elementary and middle school students, including those who have navigated the challenges of foster care and sex trafficking. My work is fueled by a deep desire to cultivate a sense of community for all young people, empowering them to feel supported, valued, and capable of achieving their dreams. Through engaging programs and activities, I strive to create a safe and inclusive environment where young minds can flourish. Whether it’s through fostering academic success, promoting social-emotional well-being, or simply providing a listening ear, I believe in the power of positive relationships to shape young lives. I am committed to helping young people discover their strengths, overcome obstacles, and build a brighter future for themselves and their communities.
KATHY WILSON
KATHY WILSON
I am a lifelong educator with a strong passion for teaching and coaching, I understand the importance of building relationships, honoring other’s funds of knowledge and bringing joy to all that I do. I am also active in my neighborhood community and the Elk Grove Unified School District as a parent and employee. I serve in the Family and Community Engagement Department where I facilitate the school district’s Black Family Affinity Group called Families of Black Students United (FBSU). I am also a co-advisor of one of the High School’s Black Student Unions (BSU), as well as an Adjunct College Professor in Los Rios Community College District. In addition, I work at the California Preschool Instruction Network (CPIN) as an Early Childhood Professional Development Coach Dual Language Lead. In all my roles I work with diverse populations, especially Black girls. I am committed to ensuring that they are seen, heard and know that they are loved. My partner and I have 3 children ages 29, 21 and 18. I love family, reading and traveling, am down to earth, and most of all love building relationships and connections.

MEET OUR 2022-2023 FELLOWS

See pictures and bios below.

CHARLENE BROWN
CHARLENE BROWN
Who I am is an Educated Woman of God born in Port of Spain, Trinidad. I have taught students for the past 30 years to find their gifts, talents and passion. As an elementary teacher I listen to my students with my heart so that I can teach their souls. I am the bridge for the miscommunicated students who have difficulty explaining who they are and what they need. I also push Black students in the GATE program in second grade by having high expectations and NOT feeling sorry for their home situations. Everyone will succeed NO exceptions. NO ONE IS LEFT BEHIND in my classroom.
BROOKLYN CRUZ
BROOKLYN CRUZ
I am a young professional dedicated to helping students uncover their passions, and create action plans to reach goals they have for themselves. I have experience teaching and facilitating workshops for middle school, high school, and even college students. I believe students have all the potential to succeed beyond their wildest dreams, as long as they have equitable access to resources and opportunities.
YESENIA MOYA
YESENIA MOYA
Community driven educator, artist, and organizer specializing in radical political education, solidarity work, transformative alternatives, poetry, oral storytelling, digital narratives and mobilization, through base-building, direct community contact, and mutual aid. Advocate/accomplice/ally actively involved in local and national organizations/grassroot projects that center queer, trans, intersectional, and abolitionist politics.
CAMILLE OWENS
CAMILLE OWENS
I am Camille Owens, a person who leads with love and learning. I’ve worked in different sectors of education since undergrad, and I ultimately found enjoyment as a clinical school social worker at Sedway MS. There, I’m fortunate to wear many hats: often, a confidant, advocate, teacher and guide. My favorite is facilitating a girls group. What balances me is my self-care, where I get to engage in my love of reading, baking, roller skating and yoga for my joy.
KARLISHA VAN HOLTEN
KARLISHA VAN HOLTEN
I am an unapologetic authentic leader. I cause good trouble, necessary trouble especially if it is for my Black students. I find myself often being the spokesperson for underrepresented populations when I have the permission and power to do so.

BECOME A FELLOW

Become a Transformative Justice Fellow and bring a restorative circle for girls to your school or community space! Applications for the 2024-2025 Cohort will open on October 1st. Click on the button to read more about this year’s fellowship and be sure to apply when applications open. Feel free to contact us at info@codeswitch.org with questions.