Vision to Reality
B.L.A.Q. Youth, Inc. was born out of a deep passion for creating a brighter future for ethnically diverse youth. Inspired by the rich legacy of resilience and excellence within the Black community, our founder, Shanaè Joyce-Stringer, envisioned a space where young minds could thrive, be celebrated for their uniqueness, and feel empowered to lead. What began as a series of small gatherings focused on cultural pride and mentorship has grown into a dynamic organization that champions equitable opportunities and personal growth for the next generation of leaders. With the unwavering belief that every child deserves the chance to succeed, B.L.A.Q. Youth, Inc. continues to build on this foundation, offering transformative programs and a community of support.
Our Mission and Vision
Empowering diverse youth aged 8-18, we foster a community that celebrates cultural heritage, instills pride, and champions equitable education for all.
We envision a future where every participant in B.L.A.Q. Youth, Inc. not only cherish their heritage and identity but excels in an educational landscape that values and supports diversity. Through our dedicated efforts, we aim to inspire the next generations of leaders who will positively impact their communities and contribute to a more inclusive society.
Our Team
Shanaè Joyce-Stringer
Shanaè Joyce-Stringer, originally from Miami, Florida, and now residing in Eugene, Oregon, is a dedicated educator and advocate for youth empowerment. As the founder and president of B.L.A.Q. Youth, Inc., she works tirelessly to support and uplift young people in her community. In addition to her work in education, Shanaè is currently training to become a doula, further deepening her commitment to serving others.
Shanaè holds a Bachelor's degree in Public Administration and Political Science, along with a Master’s in Conflict Analysis and Resolution. She is also working toward completing her PhD. With nearly 15 years of experience in education, Shanaè has taught in public, charter, and tribal schools, and has even worked internationally in China. In her personal time, she enjoys traveling, collecting Barbies and children's books, and playing board games.
Antoinette Foreman
Antoinette Foreman is a woman of many hats—and she wears them all with pride! Some days, she’s your typical sister, best friend, and favorite aunt. Other days, she’s stepping into her role as a dedicated police officer, field training officer, or even a Crisis Negotiator. As a proud member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., Antoinette is always ready to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. With a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science and an English minor under her belt, she’s currently working toward her Master’s degree in Emergency Management and Homeland Security.
When she’s not serving her community, you can find Antoinette soaking up the sun at the beach, indulging in a good book, painting, or taking long, peaceful walks. Family, friends, and making her community more inclusive and knowledgeable are what fuel her passion. Her ultimate goal? To help people grow, excel, and reach their fullest potential.
Tracy Roberts-Raby
Tracy is a skilled professional with an extensive background in procurement and accounting for large corporate and governmental entities.
Sharon Joyce
Sharon Joyce, born and raised in Miami’s Liberty City, has always been deeply rooted in her community. After graduating from Miami Northwestern Senior High School in 1977, she went on to earn a degree in Sociology from the University of South Florida. Returning home, Sharon helped run the family seafood business for five years before embarking on a long and rewarding career in education. With over 30 years of experience in Miami-Dade County Public Schools, Sharon dedicated herself to working with special needs students, holding positions such as Behavior Management Teacher, ESE Department Chairperson, and Restorative Justice Practices Coordinator. She also proudly served as the After School Care Director.
Now retired, Sharon enjoys staying connected to her alma mater, Miami Northwestern, where she volunteers regularly, attends performances and sports events, and serves on both the MNW Boosters, Inc. and the Miami Northwestern Alumni Association boards. Her heart for service extends beyond the school, as she’s passionate about social causes, donating to shelters, feeding the unhoused, and supporting students through the Bulls Clothing Closet. When she’s not volunteering, you can find her enjoying theatre, music, travel, or simply curling up with a good book.
Lisa Abia-Smith
Lisa Abia-Smith, M.A., serves as the Director of Education at the Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art and as a Senior Instructor at the University of Oregon, where she teaches arts management, museum studies, and accessible arts curriculum development. She is nationally recognized for her research on arts in healthcare and has presented her work internationally. Previously, she held positions as a Visiting Assistant Professor of Art Education at SUNY Buffalo State College and worked at various institutions, including the Jewish Museum in San Francisco and the Oakland Museum of California. Her contributions to museum education, particularly for special needs populations, include creating the nation's first concentration program in Museum Education for Special Needs at SUNY Buffalo State College.
In addition to her academic roles, Lisa directs the Art Heals program, leading workshops designed for diverse groups such as Latina mothers with postpartum depression, oncology patients, and medical professionals. Her research focuses on the intersection of arts, healthcare, and marginalized communities, and she has authored several publications, including her recent book chapter, “Museums as Prescription,” set to be published in 2024. She holds an M.A. in Museum Studies from John F. Kennedy University, a B.A. in Art from St. Mary's College of California, and is pursuing a post-bac diploma in Art Therapy from Metafora University in Barcelona.
Keith R.Tinsley
Keith R. Tinsley is a distinguished resident of Eugene, Oregon, and holds a Senior membership in the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). He boasts an extensive portfolio of patents and publications and is recognized as a forward-thinking innovator and Wireless System Architect. Mr. Tinsley’s commitment to Oregon and its citizens is unquestionable. He has played a pivotal role in designing, developing, and deploying numerous Public Safety Land Mobile Radio Systems. These systems support numerous States’ Police and Transportation departments. He has further extended his unwavering commitment to serving others through his appointment to the Board of Directors of B.L.A.Q. Youth, Inc.
Jennifer Cumberworth
Jen Cumberworth is a passionate and dedicated arts leader in the community. She serves as the Education and Engagement Manager at the Hult Center for the Performing Arts, and believes the arts are a tool for advocacy, education, and community. Her background in the arts started by doing local theatre in her small town in Ohio and then she went on to earn her B.A. at American University in Washington, DC, where she studied classical theatre and theatre of the oppressed in Oxford, England and Prague, Czech Republic. Jen spent nearly a decade performing and teaching in Chicago before finding her way to Eugene, OR. Jen has been working at the Hult Center for over six years now and continues to love the way the arts can bring communities together, address difficult topics, or ignite a spark of passion. Facilitating or experiencing these impactful and sometimes life-changing moments are what fuels her in her work and her personal life.