Who We Are

Vice President of Programs & Strategies

Danielle Mkali

I am a VP of Programs & Strategies at Nexus Community Partners. Previously at Nexus, I led the Open Road Fund, which is designed to redistribute $50 million to the Black community in Minnesota, North and South Dakota. I also developed and led the North Star Black Cooperative Fellowship, a seven-month program that connects participants with the rich history of cooperative economics in the Black community, while receiving technical skills and support for emerging cooperative business ideas. I actively support the practices and models of cooperative ownership of land, labor and housing. My mission is to uplift the resources needed to unleash self-determination, freedom and our legacy of Black Economic Cooperation.

Prior to joining Nexus in 2013, I directed the media justice and community-building efforts at Main Street Project and was co-founder of S.P.E.A.C., an eight-month community organizing training with Hope Community in the Phillips neighborhood of Minneapolis.

In addition, I chair the Partnership in Property Commercial Land Trust board, was an organizer on the national campaign to expand low-power FM radio, and was a founding advisory board member of KRSM Radio.

I studied education at Minneapolis Community & Technical College and African and African American Studies at the University of Minnesota.

Grants Program Director

Lavasha Smith

In my role as Director of the Open Road Fund—a $50 million initiative to redistribute wealth to Black communities across Minnesota, North Dakota, and South Dakota—I work alongside a dynamic team to guide investments that prioritize economic justice, shared power, and community-rooted solutions. I believe in challenging outdated systems and creating new paths that honor how our communities live, work, and support one another.

Beyond my professional work, I’m grounded by the relationships that shape me: I am a proud mother, daughter, sister, and friend. These roles fuel my commitment to community, care, and transformative change.

Grants Manager

Duaba Unenra

Duaba is the Grants Manager for the Open Road Fund. He helps to coordinate everything related to grantmaking operations for the fund. Duaba also facilitates the process design of the fund, in collaboration with the ORF Team and community members. His work contributes to Nexus’ greater efforts in Community Wealth Building, Self-Authorship, and Ownership.

Duaba’s ancestors are African survivors of the Maafa and Native survivors of settler colonialism in the US Deep South. His heritage is what has motivated him to work in community development and organizing for over 15 years. He is most interested in using grantmaking as a tool to nurture powerful leaders and cultivate democratic, cooperative organizations. In his free time he is a culture worker, scholar, artist, and Blerd.

For the last 10 years, Duaba has been creating a writing system for Maafan peoples. In place of a headshot he has chosen to use one of the glyphs from that writing system to represent himself. The name of the symbol is Yuhuru, from the Swahili word “uhuru”, meaning “freedom/liberation.” The spelling reflects the way Black AAVE speakers have adapted African languages to fit their tongues. One of the proverbs associated with this symbol is “strong people don’t need strong leaders.” The lesson of this proverb is “do not worship leaders; make movements full of leaders instead.” These are inspired by the teachings of Ella Baker. Duaba strives daily to embody that teaching.

Grant Program Manager

Olivia Funkhouser Reynolds

I joined Nexus as the Grant Admin Assistant for the Open Road Fund, and am now the Grant Program Manager. I support the grant-making process that provides funds intended to help the Black communities in Minnesota, North Dakota, and South Dakota build generational wealth.

Olivia is delighted to expand her knowledge about grantmaking and supporting Black communities through exploring alternative and equitable grant models that make a real impact. She has a passion for creative expression through language and painting. She is a painter, writer, storyteller and mother. Her favorite days are spent with a good book or enjoying the outdoors with her rambunctious, inquisitive child. Olivia earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology and Comparative Race Studies from the University of Minnesota Twin Cities.

Grant Associate

Atlese Robinson

Atlese Robinson is a writer, performer, director, producer, and the founding artistic director of Ambiance Theatre Company. Atlese completed her Master of Science in Strategic Marketing at the University of Sussex in Brighton, UK in 2024 and is currently the Grant Associate for the Open Road Fund at Nexus Community Partners, where her aim is to work with Black folks so that we can all prosper educationally, financially, and communally.

Hailing from Saint Paul by way of Chicago, IL, Atlese grew up to become a storyteller because of the stories of her elders. Atlese’s most recent works include Queen Mother (Red Eye Theater), Conflicted Hearts (Theatre 45), Black Wall Street: The Burning of Dreamland Theater (MN Fringe), The Burning of Greenwood (Nimbus Theatre), and Withered Clovers (Gumbo Media), a work of investigative memoir examining the housing disparities in Minnesota.

Program Associate

Sherine Onukwuwe

Sherine Onukwuwe is a media producer, photographer, vocalist and graduate of Temple University’s Film and Media Arts program. Her career as a producer in front of and behind the camera spans over 30 years.

She has produced numerous documentaries for a variety of nonprofits, government agencies, small businesses and fellow creatives. She engages in work that seeks to uproot gender bias, racism, classism and any other ism that gives leeway to false narratives and unjust practices.

She is a former Archie Givens African American Literature Fellow and a Midwest Emmy Award Winner for Best Conversational TV Series.

On a personal note, she is always game for a chat about good music, food, travel, history and horoscopes. She’s a mama to a K-drama fanatic and a hostage to a tyrannical feline named Lavender.

Angela Dawson

Founder & President/CEO, Forty Acre Co-Op & President, The Great Rise

Ms. Dawson is a fourth-generation farmer from the Upper Midwest and a first generation college graduate earning several degrees in business and legal education. Dawson’s business expertise has primarily focused on cooperative business development, food systems security, and public health. Over her twenty eight year career Dawson has served on several boards and committees advocating for equity, inclusion and environmental sustainability. Dawson recently co-founded The Great Rise to scale her advocacy positions and create lasting policy changes in Minnesota and beyond.

Angela and her work has been featured in several publications including the following:

• InStyle Magazine: The Badass 50 – 2021
• Fox 9: New Bill Aims to Even the Field for Black Farmers
• Mashable: Black farmers denied loans teach each other how to make money growing hemp
• BlackTech: How Angela Dawson and the 40 Acres Co-Op Are Reclaiming Black Wealth Through Farming
• KARE: 40 Acre Co-op, A Co-Op for Black Farmers
• Hemp Farmer: 40 Acre Co-op: Creating New Promise for Socially Disadvantaged Farmers
• KARE 11 News Feature of 40 Acre Co-op
• Authority: Women Of The C-Suite: Angela Dawson of 40 Acre Cooperative On The Five Things You Need To Succeed As A Senior Executive
• APLUS by Ashton Kutcher

Anura Si-Asar

Brother Anura Si-Asar is an educator, publisher and firefighter. As a former teacher, Anura worked in the Minneapolis Public Schools and at Harvest Preparatory School in the 1990s. He is the coordinator of the Imhotep Science Academy, a K-8 STEM Saturday program. Anura is the Publisher of Papyrus Publishing Inc. and a firefighter with the Minneapolis Fire Department. He has been on Harvest BEST Academy’s Board since 2008.

Cheniqua Johnson

Cheniqua Johnson is a city councilwoman for the City of Saint Paul, where she represents Ward 7 and advocates for the needs and interests of her constituents. She has a bachelor’s degree in Family Social Science from the University of Minnesota, and a non-degree certificate in Political Science and Government from Marquette University. She is passionate about public service, philanthropy, economic development, health, domestic violence prevention, and civic engagement. She was recently named as one of the 2024 Minneapolis-St. Paul Business Journal’s 40 Under 40.

Before joining the city council, Cheniqua was a program officer at the Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation, where she supported the work of nonprofit organizations throughout the state. She has seven years of prior experience in community engagement, political organizing, and local, state and federal government. She is skilled in public speaking, teamwork, and leadership, and has contributed to multiple projects and initiatives that have improved the lives of Minnesotans. Outside of work, Cheniqua enjoys socializing, organizing, and playing the alto saxophone.

Chloe Clements

Chloe Clements is a diversity consultant with 6 years of experience leveraging DEI practices to create culturally inclusive learning institutions. As co-founder and executive director of ACE Academy, South Dakota’s first secular primary school rooted in anti-racist teachings, Clements is committed to healing race relations and building cultural awareness through culturally responsive education, social justice, and racial equity. Armed with firsthand experience, years in advocacy work, and the power to organize, Clements understands marginalized communities and the organizations that interact with them. She is passionate about partnering with community leaders, driving initiatives, and directing events to foster cultural competency in order to bring the power of equity to all things.

Genesia Williams

Genesia Williams is the owner and principal of Genesia Doing Things — a design and strategy firm focused on solutions for nonprofits, small businesses, artists and individuals. Genesia is from the South Side of Chicago, fourth generation, and a grandchild of the Great Migration. She is firmly rooted in the history, culture, and Black-centered identity given to her from her hometown. She carries this perspective forward in her Twin Cities-based communications work, joining Greater Minnesota Housing Fund, a CDFI and statewide housing intermediary, as their Director of Communications in 2023.

Jered Pigeon

Jered Pigeon is a seasoned business analyst and company strategist with over 12 years of experience advising and consulting institutions in both the education and manufacturing sectors. Specializing in hiring and recruiting strategies, fostering organizational growth through cultural initiatives, and providing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion coaching, Jered is dedicated to facilitating positive change within organizations.

Jered holds a Master of Science in Counseling and Higher Education and is currently pursuing a doctoral degree in Education Leadership, showcasing his commitment to advancing his expertise in the field. Born in Grand Forks, ND, and now residing in Dilworth, MN, Jered brings a unique perspective shaped by his upbringing in a bi-racial family and his experiences living in both the North and the South.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Jered prioritizes his role as a family man, centering his actions around his loved ones and the well-being of the communities he belongs to. Alongside his partner Tina, Jered is proud to raise their six children.

Actively engaged in the Fargo-Moorhead community, Jered has played a pivotal role in facilitating positive change. He has contributed to government initiatives focused on community relations, collaborated with businesses to develop strategic plans, and co-founded organizations dedicated to serving the greater good. Grounded in the principles of servant leadership, Jered is a dedicated member of the Dilworth Lions, the Moorhead American Legion, and the Chamber, where he continues to make meaningful contributions.

Jered is widely recognized as a pillar in the Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) community, earning a reputation as one of the region’s trusted experts in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. His approach is rooted in evidence-based practices and tailored to meet the unique needs of each organization he serves, ensuring sustainable and impactful outcomes.

Jimmy Harris

Hey, my name is Jimmy Harris. I’m 28 and I enjoy writing and making music, anime, and manga. But most importantly, I love making change or being a part of it. If you don’t take the risk, you don’t create a better future.

Joslynn Mayse

Joslynn Mayse is a dedicated elementary tutor with Lutheran Social Services, leveraging her passion for education to empower young minds. Prior to her role in education, Joslynn embarked on a diverse professional journey, serving as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in healthcare settings and as a Patient Service Representative in a dental office. Her commitment to caring for others has been evident throughout her career, whether in a medical capacity or through educational support. Joslynn’s journey into tutoring was paved by her early graduation from high school, demonstrating her determination and academic excellence.

Outside of her professional pursuits, Joslynn finds joy in spending quality time with her family, cherishing moments filled with laughter and love. With a love for sports, she finds solace in cheering for her favorite football team, the Detroit Lions, and basketball team, the LA Lakers. Driven by a desire to make a positive impact in her community, Joslynn is dedicated to helping others and fostering positive change. She embodies compassion, resilience, and a relentless spirit of service.

Katherine Lankford

While I was born in Compton, California, I call San Antonio, TX my hometown because it is where I grew up since the age of seven. I have over 20 years’ experience in the Mortgage Industry. I am currently a Correspondent Mortgage Underwriting Supervisor at a local bank. I graduated from the University of Texas at San Antonio with a degree in History and American Studies. I earned a Master of Divinity Degree from the Interdenominational Theological Center in Atlanta GA, with a concentration in Christian Education. I am an ordained minister in the Presbyterian Church USA and an Associate Pastor at Liberty Community Church in North Minneapolis where I am the Director of Christian Education and Community Engagement.

I am passionate about providing financial literacy to the black community. This stems from my personal financial experiences and financial services background and training. I conduct financial literacy programing at my church for adults. I started an investment club at church for youth in grades 6-12 to demystify the stock market. I am the creator and host of a financial podcast called Finance & Affirmations. It is a podcast which deals with the intersection of personal finance and every aspect of our daily lives. It also offers financial and personal affirmations to help its listeners on their daily journeys.

Kirstin Burch

Frogtown born and raised, Kirstin is excited to bring her lived experience and deep Saint Paul roots to her role on the Black Community Trust Fund Advisory Committee. Kirstin leads with the values of integrity, authenticity, and transparency, and prioritizes holistic, community-driven solutions, innovation, and cross-stakeholder collaboration with a focus on equity, accountability, and results.

Kirstin Burch is the Program Director at the Family Housing Fund, where she leads program strategy and oversees the implementation of strategic initiatives. Kirstin is an experienced leader in both the local government and nonprofit sectors. Kirstin brings expertise in culturally inclusive relationship building, community engagement, policy development, regulatory and systems change, and affirmatively furthering fair housing.

Kirstin holds a B.A. in Individualized Studies, studying the intersections of Culturally Inclusive Approaches to Economic Advocacy and Leadership from Metropolitan State University and a Leadership in Affordable Housing Certificate (LAHC) from Hamline University.

Kirstin resides in the Payne-Phalen neighborhood with her partner and three children where she is comfortably known as an indoor person that you will likely find cooking a delicious meal, socializing with friends and family, or cheering her kids on a local recreation center sporting event.

Ronnie Spann

Currently employed at Minneapolis Public Schools Behavior resource for Anishinabe Academy.

I have worked as a youth advocate for over 20 years in the twin cities and am also a natural self taught artist.

I am engaged in growing Electromagnetic People Art co LLC which is a family owned and operated business in hopes of establishing generational wealth as well as being able to give back to the community through education in art and culture. I believe that the answers to all the problems facing our planet reside in the people of the planet and it is supremely beneficial to us all if everyone is able to achieve their potential.

Tyesha N. Mitchell

As a Community Health worker and founder of Making It Official, I believe in responding to the heart of people, serving with integrity, and the collective power of partnership. These beliefs fueled my decision in applying for the Back Trust Fund Advisory Committee.

Outside of my 10 years’ experience in the healthcare field, I am University of Northwestern- St. Paul Alumna and student at Metropolitan State University completing a degree in Human Services Family studies. As a loving ambassador for Christ, devoted mother, mentor, and friend I strive to use my achievements and resources for the well-being of our community.

What excites me most about serving on the Black Fund Advisory committee is our collaborative approach, my passionate committee members, and the possibility of tangible impact. As a proud Chicago native, I aspire to be as sacrificial as my late mother, generous as my brother, courageous as Harriet Tubman, and industrious as Clarence Avant. All while being as sensible as Judge Judy. It’s an honor serving communities who are so deserving, thank you.

Rachel Stone McDaniel

Chicago native Rachel Stone McDaniel moved to the Fargo/Moorhead area about 20 years ago, to help her parents in ministry and has been on an adventure ever since. She is the proud mother of 3 sons; Immanuel, Samuel, and Gabriel. As a community leader, Rachel has devoted her life to philanthropy, as her passion is to inspire others however that she can. With several years of involvement on SENDCAA HeadStart’s Parent and Policy committee, she saw this as an opportunity to spread the word about the importance of childhood literacy. This organization’s mission became her pageant platform, and she soon became a national spokesperson for the HeadStart program. In 2006, she made history when she earned the title, becoming the 1st African American woman to be crowned Mrs. North Dakota International. It was then that it seemed her life took off. This great opportunity to travel and speak on many stages opened up doors for her to pursue a modeling career and even took her all the way to Hollywood.

Rachel previously worked for both Fargo and Moorhead Public Schools for several years. It was here that she saw the many issues, gaps, and struggles between the students and teachers. Working with our young girls in both Fargo and Moorhead Public Schools had reminded her of her childhood years, and how she had vowed to help others break cycles in their lives. Determined to fulfill her vow of being a BIG sister and mentor to others, in 2014 Rachel started her own youth empowerment nonprofit called P’s & Q’s Etiquette LLC, where she focuses on teaching and cultivating the next generation of leaders. This organization has been able to grow in large part thanks to the supporters, partnerships, and grants she has received through the F-M Area Foundation and The Initiative Foundation.

In addition to teaching students leadership skills, she enjoys modeling, cosmetology, and singing as she created her 1st single titled “You Are”. Rachel’s strong faith in God & passion for empowering our littles is what drives her. Her most recent venture led her into deep waters, as she ran a campaign, and made history becoming the 1st African American woman to be elected to serve on the Moorhead School Board for the last 4 years. Rachel’s favorite saying is, “Born for someone else” because she believes that life is about purpose and that through her story she can give others hope and inspiration. Rachel credits her success to her Leaderlicous students and her parents, Gloria & Paul Shields, who taught her the importance of service and helping others reach their greatest potential!