Dahjanay Williams

Executive Assistant

Favorite inspirational quote:

“Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”

— James 1 v 4

Pronouns: She/her

Areas of expertise: strategic planning, capacity building, case management, operations, program development and management, board management, event planning, community-based participatory research, grant writing, building partnerships

Causes I’m most passionate about: poverty alleviation, community development, social justice, international relations, youth development, economic development, access to resources, immigration 

My fundraising story: For my 29th birthday, I started a Gofundme to raise funds to purchase laptops for three university students that followed my Graduates Empowered to Thrive initiative in Uganda. Without the laptops these students would have faced difficulties during the COVID-19 pandemic including attending class, conducting research, and meeting the deadline to submit assignments. 

Why I care about helping nonprofits grow: While studying in Uganda, I conducted research focusing on the role of nonprofits that provide services to marginalized communities within Kampala. Through interviews, I found that the government was using an "enabling approach" that left little change in the community. I discovered that independent NGOs planned similar projects, but lacked funding to execute them. Duplicate efforts, and a lack of communication and resources, created a situation where the community's needs were not met. My time in Uganda taught me about the importance of inclusion and collaboration between nonprofits and other stakeholders to make an impact. 

Hobbies: reading nonfiction, exploring different countries, engaging in adventurous activities, vegan restaurant hopping, watering my houseplants, trying new vegan recipes, running, creative writing, volunteering, watching Nigerian movies

Unusual talent: I can switch accents that are actually convincing in the middle of a conversation.