EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

As the Executive Director of Project Kindred, Yaa is dedicated to driving transformative change in her communities. With a diverse background spanning economic development, venture capital, and education, Yaa brings unique insights to strategic planning and team leadership. She previously led revitalization projects for Milwaukee’s inner harbor at Harbor District, Inc. Yaa is a proven changemaker whose efforts to empower marginalized communities have garnered wide recognition–from Fortune magazine for her work investing in and supporting Black Founders of high-growth startups, to Michelle Obama for her initiatives with young leaders and voter education. Outside of professional pursuits, Yaa enjoys witnessing her son’s growth, spending quality time with loved ones, exploring the world, embracing new experiences, and sweating it out with hot yoga.

OPERATIONS MANAGER

Joanna has been part of Project Kindred since being a (virtual!) counselor in summer 2020. She joined the Program Leadership Team in 2022 and is now grateful and excited to step in to the full time role of Operations Manager. Previously Joanna was a licensed school social worker and a youth and family therapist at a shelter for youth who are experiencing homelessness. She graduated from the University of Minnesota - Twin Cities in 2016 with a Bachelor's degree in sociology, and earned her Master's in Social Work from the University of Wisconsin - Madison in 2019. She is passionate about social justice and increasing youth voice and agency within systems that serve youth. In her free time she enjoys spending time with her friends, family, and pets, as well as reading, seeing live music and being out in nature.

COMMUNITY ARCHITECT

Darryl is dedicated to creating a fun and educational experience for children. Raised in Milwaukee, Darryl has strong ties to the community and is a proud graduate of Rufus King International School. He currently teaches at Milwaukee College Prep 38th Street, the same elementary school he attended, where he strives to inspire young learners every day.

Currently pursuing his degree in education at Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC), Darryl is committed to fostering a love for learning both inside and outside the classroom. His experiences as an educator shape his vision for camp, where he aims to cultivate a supportive environment that encourages exploration, creativity, and teamwork.

In his free time he enjoys music, cooking, the occasional painting, and, of course, having fun! He loves to incorporate these interests into camp activities, ensuring that every day is filled with creativity and joy. With his deep-rooted passion for education and community, he is excited to lead campers on an unforgettable journey of growth, discovery, and camaraderie!

COMMUNITY ARCHITECT - PROGRAM

Molly was born and raised in Milwaukee. She is a proud graduate of MPS and UW-Madison, where she completed her degree in teaching. Molly is in her 15th year teaching in Milwaukee and loves being a positive part of the community she grew up in. She has been honored and excited to work with Project Kindred throughout the past 4 years. As an educator in both the traditional school setting and now the camp setting as well, she is fully committed to the growth, equity, and empowerment of our youth in this city and in the surrounding areas.