We’re excited to introduce the 2025 Washington, D.C. Rock Star Fund awardees — nine young women and gender-expansive youth of color who are driving bold change in their communities.
Part of our Young Women’s Initiative, the Rock Star Fund invests in young leaders aged 12–24 who are advancing solutions rooted in their lived experiences. Each awardee was selected through a participatory grantmaking process and will receive a $2,000 grant to bring their vision to life — from building community spaces to advocating for justice and equity.
We are energized by their creativity, courage, and commitment to building a stronger, more just region.
Get to know our 2025 Washington, D.C. cohort, and explore their inspiring projects below.
Name: Kaitlyn Arbertha
Age: 18
What inspired you to apply for the Rock Star Fund, and what does it mean to you to have received this grant?
I was inspired to apply for this fund to be an example of leadership for younger black girls to look up to, know that they can sit in these big rooms as they see others do, and stand up for their beliefs. This grant gives me the money to be a bright light for those needing guidance.
Tell us about your project and how you believe it will make a difference in our community.
“Policy Pioneers” is a women-led mentorship program that will cultivate policy leaders with networking skills and a hands-on legislative bootcamp where women will learn the process to draft policies, debate over them, and implement them. Teams will analyze real-world situations and draft mock legislation. This will serve as a model for youth civic engagement, creating a network of young leaders.
If you could describe your project in one emoji, what would it be…and why?
👸🏾 – The black queen emoji shows that, as a Black woman, you too can be the standard for people to look up to and follow.
What advice would you give to other young women interested in pursuing their own community-change project or initiative?
“You miss 100% of the chances you don’t take”. Take the next step to level up your life and take chances for what you are passionate about. You are your only setback.
How do you see your project fitting into the larger movement for women’s empowerment and gender equality?
This will increase women’s representation in leadership and break systemic barriers, especially for those of color. It will also close the knowledge gap of women who are scared to take on the government and even give girls the confidence to take civics head-on.
If you could have any superpower, what would it be, and how would you use it to make a difference in the world?
If I could have any superpower, it would be to have telepathy. I want to understand people’s behavior on a deeper level and persuade policymakers to take on meaningful change.
Name: De’Nayia Bennett
Age: 24
What inspired you to apply for the Rock Star Fund, and what does it mean to you to have received this grant?
I was inspired to apply for the Rock Star Fund by my high school theatre group, which played a huge role in helping me find my voice and confidence when I participated. That experience showed me the power of creative expression, especially for young people. Receiving this grant means so much because it allows me to give back, helping youth explore their own voices and understand the impact they can have on the world around them through creative arts.
Tell us about your project and how you believe it will make a difference in our community.
My project gives young people—especially those from underserved communities—a creative outlet to express themselves, build confidence, and stay on a positive path. Through theatre, visual arts, and social engagement, I want to create a safe space where youth can explore their emotions, share their experiences, and grow as young people. This kind of creative engagement helps them stay empowered, build life skills, and strengthen their connection to the community.
If you could describe your project in one emoji, what would it be…and why?
🎭 – Because it represents self-expression, creativity, and transformation—core elements of my project. Just as theatre allows people to step into different roles and explore new perspectives, this project gives young people a safe space to explore their emotions, share their stories, and discover their own voices.
What advice would you give to other young women interested in pursuing their own community-change project or initiative?
My advice to other young women is to pursue what brings them joy and feels true to who they are. I believe that real change starts when you lead with passion and stay connected to what matters most to you. Using your voice is powerful and necessary. By sharing your story and standing up for what you believe in, you not only grow personally but also inspire others to do the same.
How do you see your project fitting into the larger movement for women’s empowerment and gender equality?
This project is all about creating a safe space for young women of color to express themselves, share their stories, and see the power in their voices. It challenges the narratives that have often silenced us, and instead uplifts creativity, leadership, and lived experiences. By helping them step into their full selves, the project contributes to a larger movement for women’s empowerment and gender equality that’s rooted in representation, healing, and change. The project aims to show them that their stories matter and that they have the power to shape their own futures.
If you could have any superpower, what would it be, and how would you use it to make a difference in the world?
If I could have any superpower, it would be mind-reading or telepathy—so I could truly understand what people are feeling, especially when they can’t express it themselves. I’d use it to connect with young people who are struggling to find their voice, so I could help them feel heard and understood. Sometimes, when you’re carrying so much inside, just knowing someone sees you for who you really are can make all the difference in building confidence and self-worth.
Name: Teonna Xeon Bratcher
Age: 16
What inspired you to apply for the Rock Star Fund, and what does it mean to you to have received this grant?
I wanted to apply to help the kids in my community because I found it fascinating, and I enjoyed coming up with an idea.
Tell us about your project and how you believe it will make a difference in our community.
I want to create a space for teens to study, socialize, and explore opportunities. A middle space where everyone can go to learn and have fun instead of being on the streets or doing nothing. Old middle spaces have disappeared for teens, leaving us with almost nothing to do after and before school or in the summertime. My project will be to make an open space for all teens.
If you could describe your project in one emoji, what would it be…and why?
🏠 – The reason is that I would love to create an open space where kids and teens can feel at home and relaxed, like a retreat, a place for time away from home or simply a shared area.
What advice would you give to other young women interested in pursuing their own community-change project or initiative?
You should follow your dreams and try! If you try enough things will always be happy, so give it a chance.
How do you see your project fitting into the larger movement for women’s empowerment and gender equality?
I see my project fitting into the movement for empowerment as a safe space for teens of color and their identities—a safe space free from discrimination against anyone who attends, whether they are trans, a woman, or anything in between.
If you could have any superpower, what would it be, and how would you use it to make a difference in the world?
Healing. It can be used in large quantities and would help others.
Name: Jaelyn Chapman
Age: 19
What inspired you to apply for the Rock Star Fund, and what does it mean to you to have received this grant?
One of the things that inspired me to apply for this grant was seeing how this organization is truly about taking action, not just talking about it. Too often, organizations say what they want to do but never actually put boots on the ground. But The Women’s Foundation is different. They’re reaching out to youth in the community, asking us what we need, and then giving us the tools to succeed. Receiving this grant means the world to me, truly. It has taken so long for plus-size women to be seen, heard, and given a platform. For an organization like this to see us, to see me, and to want to help build my platform, it’s everything.
Tell us about your project and how you believe it will make a difference in our community.
My project focuses on creating a supportive space for plus-size Black girls, where they can feel empowered, confident, and celebrated. Through workshops, events, and open conversations, we’ll address issues like self-esteem, body image, and mental health. I believe this project will make a difference by giving these girls the tools and support they need to love themselves and show up fully in their communities.
If you could describe your project in one emoji, what would it be…and why?
❤️🩹 – I chose this emoji because it represents healing, care, and emotional strength. This project comes from a place of wanting to heal the wounds caused by years of exclusion, bullying, and feeling unseen. It symbolizes the love and support I want to pour into other plus-size Black girls, helping them feel whole, confident, and worthy, just as they are.
What advice would you give to other young women interested in pursuing their own community-change project or initiative?
I would tell them that the worst someone could say is no—and even then, that no doesn’t define you. Your project should reflect who you are or what you feel called to do, something so rooted in your purpose that no matter how hard it gets or how many rejections come your way, the light and passion behind it will never fade. Keep pushing, because what’s meant for you will always find its way.
How do you see your project fitting into the larger movement for women’s empowerment and gender equality?
My project fits into the larger movement for women’s empowerment and gender equality by challenging traditional beauty standards and promoting body positivity for plus-size Black girls. It creates a space where they can thrive, embrace their identities, and gain confidence in a world that often excludes them. By providing tools for success and self-empowerment, the project contributes to a broader cultural shift toward inclusivity and equality for all women, regardless of size or background.
If you could have any superpower, what would it be, and how would you use it to make a difference in the world?
If I could have any superpower, it would be the power of perception—the ability to help people see themselves and others clearly, beyond stereotypes, insecurities, or societal labels. I’d use it to shift how we view beauty, worth, and identity, especially for those who’ve been made to feel invisible. With this power, I’d help people recognize their value and the value in others, creating a world rooted in empathy, confidence, and true understanding.
Name: Aniya Coffey
Age: 18
What inspired you to apply for the Rock Star Fund, and what does it mean to you to have received this grant?
Applying for the Rock Star Fund was inspired by my commitment to empowering young people through education and opportunity. I wanted to host a youth conference focused on financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and economic development to equip the next generation with the tools and knowledge they need to thrive. Receiving this grant is incredibly meaningful because it provides the resources and support necessary to bring this vision to life, creating a space where young people can learn, grow, and become leaders in their communities.
Tell us about your project and how you believe it will make a difference in our community.
My project is a youth conference focused on financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and economic development. By providing workshops, mentorship, and resources, the conference aims to equip young people with practical skills and knowledge to navigate financial systems, launch their own ventures, and contribute to economic growth. I believe this initiative will make a difference by empowering participants to build a stronger, more resilient community through financial independence, innovation, and leadership.
If you could describe your project in one emoji, what would it be…and why?
🚀 – This emoji represents launching something impactful and ambitious. My project aims to empower young people to reach new heights in financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and economic development, giving them the tools to take off and achieve their goals.
What advice would you give to other young women interested in pursuing their own community-change project or initiative?
My advice to other young women is to start with your passion and let that drive you. Believe in your vision, even when others might not see it yet. Seek out mentors, build a supportive network, and don’t be afraid to ask for help or resources. Most importantly, trust your own voice, stay resilient, and remember that your unique perspective is your greatest strength. Your ideas can truly make a difference, so be bold and go for it.
How do you see your project fitting into the larger movement for women’s empowerment and gender equality?
My project contributes to the larger movement for women’s empowerment and gender equality by creating spaces where young women can gain critical skills in financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and economic development. Equipping them with these tools helps bridge the economic gap and empowers them to pursue leadership roles and create their own opportunities. By fostering confidence, knowledge, and collaboration, this initiative supports a future where women are equally represented, valued, and influential in shaping their communities and industries.
If you could have any superpower, what would it be, and how would you use it to make a difference in the world?
If I could have any superpower, it would be the ability to empower and inspire others with a single touch. I would use this power to ignite confidence, creativity, and resilience in young people, especially those from underserved communities. By empowering them to believe in their potential and take action toward their dreams, I could help create a world where everyone has the courage and resources to make a positive impact.
Name: Ssanyu Lukoma
Age: 20
What inspired you to apply for the Rock Star Fund, and what does it mean to you to have received this grant?
Any opportunity to support my non-profit, Brown Kids Read, is an opportunity that I do not take for granted. I am so grateful to the Rock Star Fund for seeking out and pouring into young, black leaders like me who want to change the world!
Tell us about your project and how you believe it will make a difference in our community.
Brown Kids Read is a non-profit organization dedicated to motivating all children, but especially children of color, to read more diverse literature. Our flagship program, The Impact Institute, trains high-schoolers as social-impact leaders and empowers them to distribute 100 free, diverse books to students in their community. These teens will grow into the future leaders we need!
If you could describe your project in one emoji, what would it be…and why?
📚
What advice would you give to other young women interested in pursuing their own community-change project or initiative?
Always combine what you care about, what you’re good at, and a relevant problem in society to create your social impact project! This will set you up for success!
How do you see your project fitting into the larger movement for women’s empowerment and gender equality?
Stories are powerful. Humans write stories about things they deem important. When young women and girls see themselves reflected in literature, it’s a statement that they matter and their stories should be amplified!
If you could have any superpower, what would it be, and how would you use it to make a difference in the world?
I would want to speak all languages so I could connect with anyone regardless of where they’re from!
Name: Amani Mamodesene
Age: 24
What inspired you to apply for the Rock Star Fund, and what does it mean to you to have received this grant?
I was inspired by the opportunity to create a healthy environment for young women to better understand themselves.
Tell us about your project and how you believe it will make a difference in our community.
My project, Pose with Purpose, is a statement that beauty comes from within and shines throughout your being. We will teach mindfulness, self-care, and give young women an opportunity to express themselves through a fun photoshoot.
If you could describe your project in one emoji, what would it be…and why?
💃🏽 – It would be the dancing emoji, because we’re going to have fun and feel free in our bodies.
What advice would you give to other young women interested in pursuing their own community-change project or initiative?
Implement the change in yourself first, teach your family, then go out to your community and be the proof.
How do you see your project fitting into the larger movement for women’s empowerment and gender equality?
Women’s empowerment starts with the feeling of being confident in yourself. This brings the desire to make healthier life choices. A healthy mind and body naturally bring us into balance of being empowered and in harmony with our mind.
If you could have any superpower, what would it be, and how would you use it to make a difference in the world?
My superpower would be to enlighten all the elements: earth, fire, water, air, and ether. I would use it to assist the Earth and its people in rehabilitating from the poisonous toxins that have been causing disease.
Name: Debkanya “Deb” Mitra
Age: 22
What inspired you to apply for the Rock Star Fund, and what does it mean to you to have received this grant?
As a 2024 recipient of the Rock Star Fund, I was inspired to reapply to continue my mission of creating a safe space for women in music. Receiving this grant is amazing because it allows me to carry forward this project for another year!
Tell us about your project and how you believe it will make a difference in our community.
My project engages young women of color in music by offering individual record sessions to artists, drop-in sessions to concentrate on technical work, and opportunities for women to connect and network. This will make a difference in the community by giving young women of color technical and emotional support.
If you could describe your project in one emoji, what would it be…and why?
🎧 – Music, but also listening to each other, is critical to genuine engagement.
What advice would you give to other young women interested in pursuing their own community-change project or initiative?
Go for it! Don’t worry about being perfect, just give it a try.
How do you see your project fitting into the larger movement for women’s empowerment and gender equality?
The technical side of audio and music is extremely male-dominated. Gender equality (in audio) will come when women can feel comfortable being their authentic selves in this space. Through this project, we will encourage women to share their experiences and validate their struggles.
If you could have any superpower, what would it be, and how would you use it to make a difference in the world?
Being able to concentrate. It would be much easier to get things done without always finding distractions. I’m already trying to make a difference, but with this superpower, I could do it more efficiently.
Name: Serenity Plight
Age: 18
What inspired you to apply for the Rock Star Fund, and what does it mean to you to have received this grant?
I decided to apply for the Rock Star Fund because my mentor sent it to me, and I felt like I should just go for it. I didn’t know what to expect, but I knew it could be a great opportunity. Getting this grant means a lot, it shows me that people believe in me and what I’m trying to do.
Tell us about your project and how you believe it will make a difference in our community.
My project is all about helping Black women feel confident and educated about their hair. I want to teach proper hair care, make quality products more accessible, and show others how they can turn their passion into a business. I really believe it’ll make a difference by creating a space where we can learn, grow, and support each other.
If you could describe your project in one emoji, what would it be…and why?
✨ – I’d choose this emoji because my project is about helping Black women glow, feel good, look good, and know their worth.
What advice would you give to other young women interested in pursuing their own community-change project or initiative?
I’d say just go for it and use your connections. There’s so much support out there; you just have to look for it. You’re not alone, and with the right research and effort, you can really make things happen.
How do you see your project fitting into the larger movement for women’s empowerment and gender equality?
I see my project helping Black women feel confident and empowered, starting with something as personal as their hair. It’s about giving us the resources to succeed and showing we can be leaders and entrepreneurs. That confidence contributes to the larger movement for women’s empowerment and gender equality.
If you could have any superpower, what would it be, and how would you use it to make a difference in the world?
If I could have any superpower, it’d be the ability to heal and uplift people instantly. I’d use it to help others get through tough times, whether it’s struggles with their emotions or personal challenges, and give them the strength to reach their full potential. I’d want to make a real difference by helping people be the best versions of themselves.
