FOUNDER/CEO

Sade Sogunro is a passionate and driven young woman who is dedicated to empowering black girls to achieve their dreams. Born and raised in Oklahoma City, Sade attended Del City High School and graduated in the spring of 2019. During her time in high school, Sade realized that many black girls in her community were not being provided with the tools and resources they needed to be successful.

After graduating, Sade went on to study political science at the University of Oklahoma, she graduated in the spring of 2023.

In July 2021, Sade founded the Cocoa Initiative, a nonprofit organization that is focused on bridging the gap for black girls in grades 8th-12th in regards to being successful. The organization provides tools and resources to help these girls expand their minds and fulfill their dreams. Sade's vision is to create a community of empowered and successful black girls who can support and uplift each other.

In addition to her work with the Cocoa Initiative, Sade also serves as the Youth Program Coordinator for Pure In Heart OKC, a nonprofit that serves women and children. In this role, she is responsible for developing and implementing programs that help young people in the community grow and succeed.

Sade's passion for empowering black girls comes from her own experiences as a young woman. She knows first-hand how difficult it can be to navigate the challenges and obstacles that come with being a black girl in America. However, she is committed to using her own experiences to help others overcome these challenges and achieve their dreams.

Sade Sogunro is a remarkable young woman who is making a difference in the lives of black girls in Oklahoma City and beyond. Her passion, dedication, and hard work are an inspiration to us all, and we can't wait to see what she will accomplish in the future.

ADMIN DIRECTOR

Phoenix Moore has served the Cocoa Initiative since autumn of 2021. In 2023, she graduated from the University of Oklahoma with a bachelor's in Business Marketing and a minor in Criminology. Currently, she works for one of the largest childcare companies in the U.S. on their social marketing team, where she is dedicated to helping the next generation thrive.

As Admin Director, Phoenix's primary goal is to help Cocoa Initiative grow. She works closely with the founder to help manage the organization and hosts the annual Be FR Conferences. Phoenix works closely with the mentors and executive team to develop and implement programs that empower young black girls and support them in achieving their goals.

Phoenix was drawn to joining Cocoa Initiative because she saw an opportunity to use her skills and knowledge to help others. Since joining the organization, she has built many meaningful relationships and become part of a sisterhood dedicated to uplifting and providing resources to girls who need them.

COMMUNITY OUTREACH DIRECTOR

Esther Akinwale has served the Cocoa Initiative since autumn of 2021. A Summa Cum Laude graduate with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Central Oklahoma, Esther has a strong background in research and community service. She has held roles as a Research Assistant at the University of Oklahoma Health & Sciences Center and TRUEDads, where she excelled in data collection, analysis and program implementation.

As Community Outreach Director, she is responsible for recruiting mentors, organizing educational events and establishing partnerships with local businesses to ensure that young African American girls receive the resources and support they need for success.

Passionate about helping those who are underserved and look like her, Esther's leadership and dedication to community service are evident through her involvement with the Oklahoma Department of Human Services and her role as Public Relations Officer for the Black Student Association. With a deep commitment to making a positive impact, Esther continues to leverage her skills and experiences to foster growth and development in her community.

MARKETING DIRECTOR

Phinina Corey has served the Cocoa Initiative since autumn of 2021. She holds a BBA in marketing with a minor in advertising from the University of Oklahoma.

As Marketing Director, she supports the mission of Cocoa Initiative through website and social media management and oversees outgoing marketing communications. Her expertise and dedication led to the successful pitch and earning of Cocoa Initiative's first media coverage. Phinina also works in accounts at a PR agency, where she specializes in marketing campaign strategy and social media management, supporting more than 12 clients.

Phinina is passionate about helping young Black girls because she recognizes not everyone has access to successful, educated mentors that look like them. Through the Cocoa Initiative, she aims to give Black girls hope and confidence that they can achieve anything they put their minds to. Outside of work, Phinina enjoys reading, which further fuels her creativity and dedication to her role.

MENTORSHIP PROGRAM DIRECTOR

Shamiah Naff has served the Cocoa Initiative since Fall of 2022 and is a dedicated and passionate Mentorship Program Director at Cocoa Initiative. With a strong background in financial planning and community service, Shamiah brings a unique blend of expertise and compassion to her role.

Shamiah is deeply invested in community upliftment. As the Mentorship Program Director of Cocoa Initiative, she plays a crucial role in guiding and empowering young girls, helping them navigate challenges and achieve their full potential. She oversees the mentorship program, supporting and advising other mentors to ensure each mentor-mentee pairing is effective and beneficial.

Her mentorship extends beyond the organization, as she also serves as a dance coach and Kiwanian mentor to local Key Clubbers in Texas and Oklahoma, and a Big Sister with Big Brother Big Sister OKC. Shamiah’s commitment to holistic community well-being is evident in every aspect of her work.

Through her role at Cocoa Initiative, she continues to make a significant impact, fostering a supportive and nurturing environment for the next generation of leaders.

EDITOR DIRECTOR

Nikke Brewer holds a Bachelor of Science in Sociology and is currently pursuing a Master's degree in Early Childhood Studies, specializing in Administration, Leadership, and Management. With a robust background in human services, she has dedicated many years to advocating for foster children and families, demonstrating a deep commitment to enhancing the lives of vulnerable groups. Presently, she serves as an Enrollment Specialist at a well known University, where she guides prospective students along their educational journeys, ensuring access to transformative opportunities. Her expertise in social policies and educational frameworks greatly enriches our board, driving forward our mission to support community empowerment and development.

PARENTAL LIAISON

Kimberly L. Sogunro has dedicated her life to serving others both professionally and personally. Married to Moses Sogunro for 32 years, she is a proud mother of four daughters and a loving grandmother to one grandson. With a career spanning 25 years as a nurse and 15 years with the Department of Veteran Affairs, Kimberly has made significant contributions to the well-being of countless individuals.

She holds a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and a Master's Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from Langston University. Kimberly finds great joy in providing care for those who have sacrificed their lives and time with family for our country. Currently, she is utilizing her expertise in rehabilitation counseling at Cornerstone Counseling Consulting, where she provides cognitive group therapy for Community Sentencing. This program supports individuals who have chosen counseling and probation over prison time, helping them reintegrate into society.

In addition to her professional endeavors, Kimberly is the CEO of Pure In Heart, a non-profit organization dedicated to offering resources to families in the community. Whether addressing spiritual, physical, mental, or emotional needs, Pure In Heart aims to support and uplift those in need.

Kimberly is also a fervent intercessor, praying for those who cannot pray for themselves. Her passion for bringing souls to Christ and doing kingdom work drives her daily efforts. She believes her unwavering love for God and her faith have been key to her success, guiding her closer to Him and fueling her commitment to service.