An Exciting Announcement…
Dear Project Kindred Community,
I am thrilled to announce that the Project Kindred Board of Directors has unanimously selected Yaa Engel as our next Executive Director! After a thorough, nationwide search, the choice was clear. Yaa is the perfect person to carry on our vital mission in Milwaukee. Yaa will officially start as Executive Director on Monday, April 8, 2024.
Yaa joins Project Kindred from the Harbor District, where she led business engagement efforts and managed revitalization projects, with equity as her central focus. Her strong eye for strategic planning, skilled ability at creating and leveraging community partnerships, and commitment to leading and developing teams are evidence of her ability as a proven changemaker.
Prior to the Harbor District, Yaa held leadership roles at Northwestern Mutual, gener8tor and Golda Meir School. Yaa will bring a wealth of experience and well-honed leadership skills to Project Kindred, and lead the way into our next great chapter.
And here’s something that really warms my heart: Yaa first encountered Project Kindred when she enrolled her son in our program!
A little over seven years ago, Project Kindred was just the seed of an idea: that all young people deserve to connect with peers of all racial backgrounds and develop confidence in themselves and understanding and empathy for those who are different. Thanks to you, that seed has grown into a thriving organization serving hundreds of young people across our city. And now, this incredible organization you’ve helped create will be led by a Project Kindred parent! Wow.
I am so grateful for the opportunity I’ve had to lead Project Kindred and to champion some of the most important work there is: building authentic community with one another. Now, I couldn’t be more excited to pass the torch to Yaa, a skilled leader who will build on the important work we have done together.
Without you, none of this would be possible. Thank you for your support, and for your belief in a more diverse, equitable and loving Milwaukee! It is because of you that we are in the position we are in today, ready to turn the page to the next exciting chapter of Project Kindred! Thank you.
-Tom