Shayle Graham
CEO and Founder of Black E.S.T.E.E.M.
Shayle Graham is a social philanthropist who builds authentic partnerships with community organizations and institutions, for the purpose of advancing underserved youth. As an educator for the past 10 years, Shayle has streamlined the scope of her work to specifically address the systemic barriers that exist for Black youth, their families and communities. Through her experience as a coach in the areas of equity, anti-racism, anti-Black and anti-oppression; Shayle collaborates with educators both locally and globally, to reimagine and implement programming in ways that honour the lived experiences of Black students, and cultural legacies that ground them. More specifically, as an educator activist, Shayle advocates for increased representation of Black girls in STEM programming on a mission to create new educational and career pathways. These ambitions have led Shayle to become the founder and president of a non-profit organization called Black E.S.T.E.E.M., which celebrates the beauty and brilliance of Black girls. It is her hope to leave a lasting footprint to honour those that came before her and pave the way for those that will come after.
Alicia Pitt
Secretary
As the Secretary of Black E.S.T.E.E.M. I bring with me an abundance of business and public sector experience. Our organization is dear to me as I thoroughly believe that young ladies of colour need to know that no dream or goal is unattainable to them. I strive to ensure that, through our purposeful and empowering programming, black girls will grow to see that they can achieve anything they set their minds to. I aspire to remind young black girls of their greatness and that a world filled with opportunities is at their fingertips.
Qhiara Williams-Grant
Treasurer
My name is Qhiara, and I am proud to serve as a Junior Director and Treasurer on the Board of Directors for Black E.S.T.E.E.M. Currently, I am an undergraduate student passionate about fostering opportunities that inspire and empower Black girls in STEM, entrepreneurship, and economics. In my role as Treasurer, I oversee the financial management of our organization, ensuring that our programs are well-supported and financially sustainable. I work closely with the board to develop transparent financial strategies that align with our mission and vision. My goal is to maintain the financial health of Black E.S.T.E.E.M. so that we can continue to offer impactful and accessible programs to our community. Being part of this organization allows me to contribute to the growth and confidence of future leaders, a cause close to my heart.
Laila Lothian
Director of Communications
My name is Laila, and I serve as the Junior Director and Communications Coordinator on the Board of Directors for Black E.S.T.E.E.M. In my role, I am responsible for managing and overseeing the organization’s content creation, media relations, and digital campaigns, ensuring that every message aligns with our core goals, values, and mission.
As a dedicated member of the organization, I am committed to raising awareness about Black E.S.T.E.E.M. and promoting the impact of our work within the community. My aim is to amplify our voice and share our vision with broader audiences, fostering connections that empower and inspire. I am passionate about using communication as a tool to build and grow our community, spread our message, and drive positive change through Black E.S.T.E.E.M.'s initiatives.
Nadia Bukhari
Interim Director of Philanthropy & Sponsorships
With over 10 years of experience as an educator in inner cities and abroad, I am passionate about empowering young girls of color, to believe in and pursue their dreams. I am dedicated to dismantling the systemic barriers that impact Black youth, and committed to increasing representation of Black girls in STEM. As the Director of Philanthropy and Sponsorships at Black E.S.T.E.E.M, I build meaningful partnerships with the community and organizations that are committed to supporting our purpose.I am honored to contribute to shaping the future of young black girls who will grow up knowing the world is filled with endless possibilities for them. This work is personal, as I believe in the power and potential of every Black girl.