Today we’d like to introduce you to Zaire Joyner
Hi Zaire, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
HeritageU: Youth Empowerment Coalitions was founded in November of 2023 by visionaries Zaire Joyner and Phalen Hamilton. Zaire, a junior at Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, and Phalen, a junior at Xavier University of Louisiana, were both inspired by the strength and tradition of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) to launch a nonprofit organization dedicated to youth empowerment and community development.
The idea of HeritageU was born out of the realization that the culture and legacy of HBCUs could be a powerful catalyst in transforming the lives of young individuals. As college students, we had a unique opportunity to leverage our experiences to inspire the next generation.
Our journey began with a community service event at Fairview Elementary School. As full-time college students with limited interactions with children, we searched for ways to connect with the youth during winter break. This sparked the idea of hosting a Toy Drive and Christmas Workshop for their afterschool program. With toy donation boxes placed at local businesses like Hi-Pointe and the French Frie Factory, and with support from community partners like Park Central Development, The St. Charles Police Department, and St. Louis Youth Sports Outreach, we raised over 500 toys in just 21 days! We recruited 23 like-minded students to help host this event, which paved the way for what HeritageU is today.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Although this organization has been blessed to be able to bless others, the journey has not been easy. As full-time college students, balancing academics while organizing community events has been challenging. We’ve poured countless hours into this organization while striving to become versions of ourselves.
One of our biggest challenges has been planning and executing these events with limited time and resources. We’ve spent many long days going door to door in the community and writing to major companies requesting support for our initiatives.
We are so thankful for the community and our partners who believe in our mission and continue to support us. We have so many big ideas for the future, but after all we are still “broke college students” yet this does not discourage us. We know that success does not come without hard work. We put in 10 times the effort, leveraging every contact, resource, and opportunity. Whether it’s sending 20 emails a day to potential donors or fundraising in our community, we remain determined and driven.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
HeritageU: Youth Empowerment Coalition is a nonprofit organization led by dedicated students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) united by a shared passion for community development. Our mission is to empower, uplift, and create opportunities for underserved individuals by leveraging the collective talents, resources, and determination of HBCU students. We are committed to fostering positive change within our communities and inspiring the next generation of leaders by promoting empowerment, education, and engagement.
We understand how unfortunate experiences can shape a child’s life. Therefore we created this organization to show students how to prevail from misfortunes, promote HBCU enrollment, and show the world what African Americans can do for their communities in need. By highlighting the accomplishments of African American students from HBCUs, HeritageU showcases the limitless potential within every individual and emphasizes the importance it plays in addressing the challenges society faces.
In just one year, HeritageU has experienced tremendous growth. We’ve nearly tripled ourmembership to 61 students across 17 universities, 10 of which are HBCUs. Additionally, we have hosted five successful events in four different states. HeritageU is more than just a community service organization; it’s a family. We are not only committed to enhancing our communities but also to the personal and professional growth of our members.
At HeritageU, we believe education is not only about acquiring knowledge but it’s also about embracing one’s roots and culture. Through various initiatives, programs, and partnerships, we aim to create a platform that empowers the youth to be leaders, change-makers, and advocates for their communities.
How do you think about luck?
At HeritageU, we do not rely on luck– we rely on faith! We are incredibly grateful and appreciative for all the opportunities and blessings that have allowed us to make a meaningful impact on the lives of others. We do not bask in the challenges and obstacles that come our way, we remain focused on our purpose, knowing that those who do the Lord’s work will always see good.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.heritageu.org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_heritageu/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/heritage-u-youth-empowerment-coalition
