Advisors
The advisors at YEAH, the Bay Area-based non-profit organization, play a vital role in shaping the futures of young individuals. With a steadfast commitment to providing early awareness and access to post-secondary education and career pathways, these advisors bring their expertise to guide and inspire the youth. Their invaluable guidance helps navigate the intricate landscape of educational and career choices, empowering the next generation to make informed decisions about their futures. Through their dedication, YEAH's advisors illuminate pathways to success, fostering a brighter tomorrow for the youth they serve.
Chief Programming Officer
Kiani Shaw
Kiani is an educator, healer, and youth development specialist from San Francisco, CA. She has worked in youth development for over ten years, specializing in culturally relevant practices and equity in under-resourced communities in San Francisco. She has worked with students in under-resourced communities in many capacities such as: case management, afterschool programs, community volunteer projects, community activist groups, child care services, high school advisor, and life coaching. She holds a B.A. in English from California State University, Fresno and a M.A.Ed in Education: Social Justice and Equity from San Francisco State University. Her commitment to youth and community development coupled with her skills of cultural communication and healing, youth empowerment, and advocacy make her a dynamic contributor to the YEAH team.
"It only takes one person to take a stand, but it takes a community to make a change" - Kiani Shaw
YEAH Advisor
Aisha Brown
Aisha Brown is a community leader, public relations strategist, organizational development consultant and advocate. She has committed herself professionally and personally to improving her community in the Bay Area by developing and implementing innovative programs that provide access to vital community resources and equitable solutions.
Her professional and community work often tends to align, allowing her to continue to have strong community access. She is the current Chief of Social Impact and Equity for Alameda County. Previously she worked for the San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit District (BART) in the Office of External Affairs as a Principal in Government and Community Relations. For over fifteen years, Aisha worked for Alameda County Supervisor Keith Carson. In her last role she served as the Chief of Operations.
In addition to serving as the Chapter President for NCBW/OBAC, she also serves her community by serving on several boards and advisory bodies. She currently serves on the Chabot Space and Science Museum’s Diversity and Inclusion Advisory Group; and the Emeryville Community Action Program Board of Directors.
She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Clinical Psychology from San Francisco State University and a Master’s degree in Organizational Management from University of Phoenix.
YEAH Advisor
Amber Childress
Amber is a seasoned professional with more than 10 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, community organizing, and local government affairs. Throughout her career, she has focused on using the power of storytelling to drive positive change.
One of Amber's key strengths is her ability to create compelling narratives that engage and inspire others. This skill has been instrumental in her success in major fundraising campaigns, where she has helped organizations raise significant amounts of money for their causes.
Amber is also passionate about effective advocacy.
She believes in the importance of amplifying the voices of marginalized communities and works diligently to ensure their needs are heard and addressed.
Amber's dedication to community empowerment extends to her work in identifying and nurturing emerging leaders. She believes in the power of grassroots movements and strives to elevate community members into leadership positions, where they can make a lasting impact on their communities.
YEAH Advisor
Duane Wilson
Duane is an experienced leader in nonprofits, entrepreneurial start ups and youth empowerment initiatives. After creating his first business while in high school, Duane continued to grow as an innovator and company founder during his many activities as an undergrad at the University of Iowa. After completing programs in Europe and Disney, Duane customized his degree program to combine his passion for business and community service. He holds a BA in Social Entrepreneurship as well as certificates in Nonprofit Management and Entrepreneurial Management from University of Iowa. Upon returning to the Chicago area, Duane earned a Certificate in Values-Centered Leadership from DePaul University. As a result of his opportunities to study and work in a global capacity, Duane realized the importance of being proactive in providing others the same opportunities. His focus on youth mentorship led to roles in heading several youth organizations to prepare them for their future. Duane is the author of “Jackie and The Dreamstalk” a children’s book used around the world as an inspirational step-by-step guide to starting a business for young entrepreneurs ages nine to fourteen. His other writings include articles and academic resources.
Service is a personal calling and Duane has received a variety of awards for his contributions. One of his most treasured recognitions is becoming a Gratitude Network Fellow global change-maker for children. Duane is a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and his hobbies and ventures include travel, cooking, spending time with family and friends to various media roles for tv and radio. He and his wife Nicole reside in the San Francisco Bay area.