Lakia Poole-Cruz
Lakia Poole-Cruz is the Director of Programs at Community Youth Advance, with nearly 20 years of experience in the nonprofit sector specializing in youth development and gender-specific programming. Passionate about experiential learning and dynamic facilitation, she has worked with resilient communities from Midwest America to Southern Africa, fostering partnerships and leading impactful initiatives.
Throughout her career, Lakia has successfully managed and executed a variety of high-impact projects, ranging from multimedia health campaigns to a local film festival for 6th grade filmmakers, to leading nationwide gender-based violence prevention initiatives. During Lakia’s service as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Eswatini, she was selected by the U.S. Ambassador as a member of the Embassy’s Gender Equity Working Group, providing critical insights into gender roles and realities to inform diplomatic strategies.
Born and raised in North Carolina, Lakia holds a Bachelor of Arts in Women’s & Gender Studies and Screenwriting from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Across her roles, Lakia remains committed to opportunities that connect passionate people with equitable work that transforms communities.