OUR FELLOWS

Our fellows work with us for an approximately 8-month term, through which they design their own community project, partner with local organizations, and receive skill-based trainings specific to the service and advocacy profession.

APRIL-DEC 2024

Emeline Niyirukundo

  • She/Her

    Emeline Niyirukundo was born in Tanzania before moving to Amarillo, Texas. She is currently pursuing degrees in Social & Criminal Justice and Sociology at Coe College, with a minor in African American Studies.

  • Emeline joined Our Future to create “Diverse Dialogues,” a mentorship program that connects middle school English Language Learners (ELL) with young adults from similar backgrounds. She wants to help ELL students address the challenges they face due to language barriers and cultural differences. Inspired by her own ELL experience, this initiative empowers these students, helping them access valuable opportunities within their community.

Jaydin McMickle

  • Jaydin McMickle is from Cedar Rapids, Iowa and studies Music at the University of Iowa. She is passionate about music and the connection it has to social justice. She cares about her community and believes every human being should have access to basic needs and a good quality of life.

  • Through Our Future, Jaydin has created a curriculum for Black Student Union students to learn from and about black artists. She has also helped create, stock, and maintain a 24/7 access Community Resource Cabinet that provides basic goods to meet public needs. She has plans to establish more Resource Cabinets throughout Cedar Rapids communities through the end of her term.

Tony Chapman

  • He/Him

    Tony Chapman holds many roles, but first and foremost, he is the father of three amazing kids! He is the founder and lead organizer of a local organization focused on creating safe community spaces and sharing resources. He is also a Behavior Technician at Taylor Elementary, a Jr Warriors Coach, and a Professional Basket Ball Player.

  • Before his fellowship term, Tony established an organization focused on bringing connections and resources to the Cedar Rapids community. Our Future recognized and aligned with the goals of Tony and his organization. Throughout his fellowship term, Our Future has assisted Tony in the process of establishing a board, applying for 501 C3 status, rebranding, and more.

MAY-DEC 2023

Daisy Garcia Barrientos in black and white, cut out and pasted on a green painted background

Daisy Garcia Barrientos

  • She/Her

    Daisy Garcia was born in Glendale, Arizona and moved to Iowa at a young age. She is now a junior at Coe College, double majoring in Social & Criminal Justice and Sociology.

    Daisy is excited to be an Our Future fellow because she can “help those in need and fight against inequalities in our country.”

    Daisy enjoys reading, shopping, and spending time with her family and friends!

  • Over the course of her fellowship, Daisy will lead an educational program for high school students to learn their legal rights and how to navigate law enforcement interactions as minors. She and her students will engage in critical discussions and interactive activities about the criminal justice system.

Tiaja Butler in black and white, cut out and pasted on a green painted background

Tiaja Butler

  • She/Her

    Tiaja (TJ) Butler is originally from Englewood, Chicago but found her calling in education and restorative justice during her studies at Coe College. She is excited to be a part of Our Future because she will “have the opportunity to create a safe and inclusive space where the voices of young women of color are honored and celebrated.”

    In her free time, she enjoys early morning walks on the river, a good book, and scenic road trips on the weekends!

  • As a fellow with Our Future, TJ is dedicated to addressing the literacy crisis faced by black and brown students in Linn County. For her project, she will establish a book club tailored to young women of color in order to provide them a platform for empowerment, foster their love for reading, and equip them with the skills they need to overcome educational barriers.

Wilsee Kollie in black and white, cut out and pasted on a green painted background

Wilsee Kollie

  • She/Her

    Wilsee Kollie is a current Kirkwood student. She loves portraying creativity and art through her work and is passionate about educating youth on the importance of self-love.

    Wilsee is excited to be part of the Our Future fellowship program because “it is important to be surrounded by great minds who fight for change.”

    In her free time, Wilsee loves to binge-watch her favorite shows, cozy up with a cup of tea, and journal or create art!

  • As an Our Future fellow, Wilsee created the “Cleanse Your Mind: Youth Mental Health Initiative.” The program provides mental health resources and coping skills to youth of color by addressing the topics of journaling, art, rest, and community.

    Wilsee is dedicated to empowering both kids and their families. She will conclude her project with a panel of mental health professionals to educate parents and community members on how to best support their kids’ mental health.

MAY-AUG 2022 SOFT OPENING