Teonah Applewhite is the Founder and Executive Director of Durham’s Hope for Kids and a passionate advocate for youth empowerment, leadership development, and community-based change. A New Jersey native, Teonah has called Durham home since 2014 and is deeply invested in strengthening systems that support young people and families.

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With over a decade of experience working for a Fortune 500 health insurance company, Teonah brings a strong background in operations, leadership, and systems-level thinking. In 2023, she founded Durham’s Hope for Kids to translate that experience into mission-driven work that centers youth development, social-emotional learning, and community engagement, while also addressing gaps in policy and access.

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Teonah holds a Bachelor’s degree in Behavioral and Social Sciences with a concentration in Child Development and Family Relations from North Carolina Central University. She is currently pursuing a Master of Public Administration (MPA) to deepen her impact in nonprofit leadership and public policy. In addition, she is a Certified Youth Life Coach through the CASE Institute, founded by Dr. Shauntel Peak-Jimenez, which equips her to support young people in building confidence, emotional awareness, and leadership capacity.

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Through her lived experience, professional background, and deep commitment to the Durham community, Teonah brings both heart and strategy to Durham’s Hope for Kids, working to ensure young people feel seen, supported, and prepared to lead.

Tamra Griffin is a dedicated advocate for professional development, community service, and diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB). A proud graduate of Morgan State University, she brings over a decade of experience in human resources and talent development, specializing in recruitment, coaching, leadership development, and strategic planning within higher education.

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In her work, Tamra leverages program design, facilitation, and adult learning principles to drive effective organizational development initiatives. She is skilled in building collaborative relationships, assessing organizational needs, and implementing solutions that strengthen engagement, performance, and retention.

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Tamra is deeply committed to serving both youth and adults through leadership development and believes in equipping individuals with the tools and confidence needed to reach their full potential and create meaningful change.

Denzel Sesley is a dedicated Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over ten years of experience serving youth and their families in Durham. As the founder of a transformative group home for youth ages 10 to 17, he has created a safe and nurturing environment that empowers young individuals to reach their full potential.

 

In addition to his LCSW designation, Denzel is a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist Associate (LCASA), enhancing his ability to address diverse mental health needs. He holds both his undergraduate and graduate degrees from North Carolina Central University, where he cultivated his commitment to mental health advocacy.

 

Denzel is also a proud member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., which reflects his dedication to community service, leadership, and development. As the Director of the Youth Committee at Durham's Hope For Kids, Denzel is passionate about inspiring and supporting the next generation of leaders through impactful programs and services.

Kymona Thomas is a passionate advocate for under-served youth, dedicated to ensuring equal access to educational resources and support services.

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In her current role as a Financial Wellness Consultant at Creative Planning, Kymona delivers the firm's Financial Wellness program to clients nationwide. Her expertise spans retirement planning, relationship management, content development, and personalized consultations. With over 10 years of experience, she has also worked at Empower, TIAA, and Vanguard.

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Kymona's commitment extends beyond finance; she previously served as a Group Leader at Catholic Social Services, developing project-based learning lesson plans for high school students. Her professional affiliations include the National Black MBA Association (NBMBAA) and The Junior League of Charlotte.

Sierra Thomas is the Board Secretary for Durham's Hope for Kids. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Sociology with a concentration in criminology from Lynchburg University in Virginia. Additionally, Sierra has a Master's degree in Organizational Management. Currently serving as the HR Director for North Hampton County, North Carolina, 

 

Sierra is deeply committed to youth development and plays a crucial role in advancing the organization's initiatives. Her dedication to empowering young individuals in Durham makes her an invaluable asset to the team.