Laqwanda Roberts-Buckley, MSSW Executive Director Being an employee at the University of Arizona right now is tough for so many reasons. Budget cuts due to mismanagement, layoffs and being told that employees won’t even receive a raise as the cost-of-living skyrockets all around us. It has been a challenging few months as uncertainty turns into the reality that U of A has failed so many of the people who have dedicated thei ..read more

Dr. Michael LeNoir and Elaine Myada African American Wellness Project ​The African American Wellness Project (AAWP) is committed to empowering the African American community for better health outcomes and wellness. Our mission is to combat healthcare disparities, champion equitable treatment, and equip African Americans with the tools and support needed to thrive. Black Women Face Lower Survival Rates for Uterine Cancer From Blackdoctor.org Black women were more likely to be diagnosed with uterine cancer  at a later stage, have lower income, and receive less surgery compared ..read more

Laqwanda Roberts-Buckley Executive Director ​There has been a long list of things that I have faced head on in life. Some have been so terrifying to the point that I will never repeat those experiences. Some have tossed me into an abyss of emotions where I laid drowning for years. Yet there has always been one thing that has clawed at me like no other. And that has been anxiety.  Anxiety has been a ******* to me, I mean every word. There is something about waking up in the middle of the night with the feeling of someone’s foot on your chest that never goes away. It’s the gas ..read more

Elaine Myada African American Wellness Project ​In the heart of Harlem, amidst the bustling streets and vibrant communities, the story of Dr. Michael LeNoir finds its roots. But the tale of this esteemed physician, healer, and community leader is not just one of individual achievement; it's a narrative woven with the threads of familial legacy, service, and an unyielding commitment to uplift those around him. Dr. LeNoir's journey is deeply influenced by the legacy of his parents, Henry, and his mother, who dedicated their lives to serving others. Henry LeNoir, as the Executive Dir ..read more

Stacey Billups, LMSW  AAWP Advisory Board Member  ​Practicing self-care while caring for others is not just a personal choice; it's a necessity. Many of us today find ourselves in the role of caregivers, whether for our elderly parents, children, extended family members, or even our colleagues. This constant juggling of responsibilities can lead to stress, burnout, and significant health and wellness concerns. But what exactly is the difference between stress and burnout? And how can we creatively address our own needs while caring for others? ​ Stress vs. Burnout Stress ..read more

​Four years ago, I decided to create an award to commend people who are out there doing this work in the wellness community. As someone who knows what it’s like to feel invisible, it has always been important to me to acknowledge the passion of the people around me.  The work we do doesn’t always go viral or seen by the masses. People at times are unaware of the hours of planning and oversight that it may take to create a social media campaign, physical event or virtual event. Time is spent between countless emails, the little expenses that add up that you might not have the ..read more

​Addressing Disparities, Promoting Wellness, and Advocating for Change ​ In the landscape of healthcare, disparities in access and quality are all too common, particularly for African Americans. The African American Wellness Project (AAWP) stands as a beacon of hope, aiming to bridge these gaps and empower communities to attain better health outcomes.  Established with a profound recognition of the systemic challenges faced by African Americans in healthcare, AAWP is committed to fostering wellness and equity. Addressing the Disparities The statistics are sobering. African A ..read more

Zaria Newbill, BA Executive Director/Founder N.O.M.O. Organization ​Zaria Newbill is an award winning and one of the most recognizable black transgender advocates and activists living in the South. Zaria’s main geographical area of concern is the Middle and some parts of South Georgia. Where to this day there is no true representation or visibility of transwomen in many of these desert towns in rural Georgia.  Through her advocacy and relentless efforts bringing awareness about HIV and transgender rights, this has been pivotal to her advocacy. Zaria started the NOMO Organizat ..read more

Alicia Stevens, BA Self-Care & Relationships Writer As we kick off the start of the new year tis the season for renewed acts of self-care. Normally acts of self-care are scheduled around work hours, maybe a run beforehand to clear your mind, yoga after work to unwind or a weekend massage to release the tension of the week.  ​But over the years that has changed as more organizations are finding it imperative to incorporate self-care into the workplace. It’s not only long overdue, but in today’s world it has become a necessity.   In the last few years my employer has b ..read more

BUSINESS OWNER: Tekita Bankhead, MS (RN-BSN)  BUSINESS NAME: Tekita Bankhead Consulting & Educational Services SERVICES PROVIDED: Consulting & Educational Services​ INSTAGRAM: @SimplyTekita LINKED in: Tekita Bankhead Click "Read More" to learn about Tekita. Tekita Bankhead, MS is an experienced DEIB consultant and strategist with a specific focus on culturally affirming mental health education. Over 10 years of professional experience as a public speaker for engagements nationwide. Skilled in Program Development, Diversity & Inclusion Consultin ..read more