Program ManagerJe’Mia is a dedicated civic leader, community advocate, and educator committed to empowering young people and fostering meaningful engagement. Born and raised in Chicago’s Auburn Gresham neighborhood, she has a deep-rooted passion for uplifting communities and creating opportunities for those often overlooked. She serves as the Program Manager at Wood Street Collective, a nonprofit based in Englewood on Chicago’s South Side, where she develops and oversees programs that support the community’s growth and resilience.
Je’Mia graduated from Beloit College in 2022 with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, where she honed her passion for public service, civic engagement, and community-driven solutions. With a strong background in public service and civic engagement, Je’Mia has spent years working to bridge gaps in access and opportunity. As a former District Director for a State Representative under the Illinois General Assembly, she managed constituent services for over 50,000 residents, led advisory committees, coordinated community events, and connected local stakeholders to funding opportunities. Passionate about democracy and youth engagement, Je’Mia served as the Chicago Ambassador for IGNITE National’s Ignite the Vote campaign, mobilizing Gen Z voters through digital outreach and on-the-ground initiatives at institutions like the University of Illinois of Urbana Champaign, the City Colleges of Chicago, and the Englewood Crushers Club. Her research on Black Gen Z voters in Chicago provided valuable insights into representation and electoral participation. |
A skilled storyteller and strategist, Je’Mia previously worked as a Communications Dunn Fellow in the Illinois Governor’s Office, contributing to press releases, speechwriting, and digital campaigns, including successfully promoting the James Dunn Fellowship to prospective students.
In addition to her work in nonprofit leadership, Je’Mia is an experienced educator. Since October 2024, she has worked as a guest teacher with Kokua Education, teaching K-12 students across Chicago. Through this role, she has developed strong classroom management skills and a passion for creating supportive and engaging learning environments.
Committed to service and mentorship, Je’Mia is also a Girl Scout Troop Leader at Bellevue Baptist Church for the Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana, guiding young girls in leadership, teamwork, and personal development. Her community-driven approach prioritizes meeting people where they are, forming strong bonds, and implementing strategic plans with accountability to achieve meaningful impact.
With a wealth of experience in program management, education, civic leadership, and advocacy, Je’Mia continues to inspire and empower communities through her work at Wood Street Collective, in the classroom, and beyond.
In addition to her work in nonprofit leadership, Je’Mia is an experienced educator. Since October 2024, she has worked as a guest teacher with Kokua Education, teaching K-12 students across Chicago. Through this role, she has developed strong classroom management skills and a passion for creating supportive and engaging learning environments.
Committed to service and mentorship, Je’Mia is also a Girl Scout Troop Leader at Bellevue Baptist Church for the Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana, guiding young girls in leadership, teamwork, and personal development. Her community-driven approach prioritizes meeting people where they are, forming strong bonds, and implementing strategic plans with accountability to achieve meaningful impact.
With a wealth of experience in program management, education, civic leadership, and advocacy, Je’Mia continues to inspire and empower communities through her work at Wood Street Collective, in the classroom, and beyond.