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HBCU Leadership Academy

The HBCU Leadership Academy is a hands-on leadership development program for students ready to lead. Student leaders manage the HBCU Day-One-Ready Academy, bridging the gap between classroom learning and workforce experience. This virtual, 10-week internship is by invitation only.

Spring 2026 Cohort (Jan 25th - Apr 11th)

Interns gain:
• Leadership experience
• Mentoring & community
• Skill-building & networking
• Career opportunities & cash

Looking for students who:
• Have strong work ethic
• Bring a positive attitude
• Are committed to learning
• Have a heart for service


Meet our Spring 2026 Leadership Team:

  • Rayven A. Bryant

    Rayven A. Bryant  
    Chief of Staff
    Spelman College

  • Autumn Edwards

    Autumn Edwards  
    Program Lead
    Howard University

  • La'Reaya Bailey

    La’Reaya Bailey  
    Administrative Lead
    Bethune-Cookman University

  • Amaiya Brown

    Amaiya Brown  
    Networking Lead
    Florida A&M University

  • Kyndall Jackson

    Kyndall Jackson  
    Community Lead
    North Carolina A&T State University

  • Zyni Tyrus

    Zyni Tyrus  
    Engagement Lead
    Florida A&M University

  • Zeniya Lukonde

    Zeniya Lukonde  
    Engagement Lead
    Spelman College

  • Sparkle Lawson

    Sparkle Lawson  
    Media Lead
    Howard University

  • Layla Louard

    Layla Louard  
    Wellness Lead
    Florida A&M University

  • Kikiope Olajide

    Kikiope Olajide  
    Wellness Lead
    Grambling State University

  • Bryanna Whitehead

    Bryanna Whitehead  
    Mentoring Lead
    Howard University

  • Zairen Jackson

    Zairen Jackson  
    Alumni Lead
    Bennett College

  • Tanatswa Mujumi

    Tanatswa Mujumi  
    Analytics Lead
    Grambling State University

  • Adriel Dube

    Adriel Dube  
    Data Lead
    Grambling State University

  • Ijeoma Mbanefo

    Ijeoma Mbanefo  
    Data Lead
    Grambling State University

HBCU First is a student-led community advancing the wellbeing and economic participation of America’s youth.