Mary E. McElrath
Mary E. McElrath, educator, community activists, and entrepreneur and local advocate of women and girls. As a chair of various non-profit organizations, Mary was able to solicit donors and form a partnership that focused on improving equity in the community, Mental Health and Voter’s Rights.
She is currently a member of the following organizations: National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, Zeta Phi Beta Incorporated, American Legion Auxiliary, and Greater Faith Christian Center.
Mary grew up in Lakeland, Florida. She holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting and organizational management and a master’s degree in Management and Administration of Educational Programs from Nova Southeastern University.
Chantal Muhumure
Chantal Muhumure, born in the Democratic Republic of Congo and raised in Rwanda, is a passionate advocate for empowering refugee women through education. A devoted mother of three, she has been married for twenty years. Chantal holds a Master’s degree in Computer Science and Information Technology, along with a postgraduate degree in education and vocational training for women.
She currently serves as an instructor in the Computer Information Systems (CIS) department at Central New Mexico Community College (CNM). As the founder and executive director of Umoja Abq, Chantal Muhumure is realizing her dream of empowering women through education. She has successfully created projects specifically for Black refugees and immigrants, helping women become self-sufficient and adjust to their new culture and country. Additionally, Chantal has been recognized for her impactful work by receiving the Everyday Hero Award and the Women of Influence Award in the state of New Mexico, highlighting her dedication to fostering community and supporting women's empowerment initiatives.
Robert Washington-Vaughns
Hailing from Chicago, Illinois, Robert Washington-Vaughns is an artist and the founder of the Black Men Flower Project, a nonprofit dedicated to honoring Black men by giving them flowers. Inspired by the therapeutic practices of creating art, being in nature, and testimonial therapy, the project's mission is clear: "Through the medium of flowers, we allow Black men to be heard, seen, and acknowledged."
While partnering with floral designers across the globe to implement place making, collective care, and testimonial therapy. Their vision is to curate communities where Black men have a sense of belonging through the power of flowers, while actively removing systemic barriers to their success and well-being.
Nsikak Udoh
Nsikak Udoh, originally from Nigeria, is a trained software engineer with a passion for using technology to create meaningful impact. His journey into democratic politics began in 2018 when he worked as a political technology consultant for a highly contested race in Texas. This experience led him to found Sparknerds, a company dedicated to partnering with impact-driven and civic organizations to deliver innovative web, design, and technology solutions that create lasting change.
Currently residing in Truth or Consequences, New Mexico, Nsikak owns and manages Turtleback Coworking, a space that fosters collaboration and community. He is deeply committed to using technology as a tool for empowerment in underserved communities. When he’s not working, Nsikak enjoys bike riding and spending time outdoors.
