Our salute to Black History Month continues with Renée Ọmọladé—educator, activist, mother, and board chair—for an inspiring discussion on leadership, identity, and community impact. A South End native and Dorchester resident, Renée shares her journey from navigating educational inequities to organizing major racial justice efforts in Boston, bringing Michelle Obama to Dorchester through her work with Black Girls Rock, and advancing educational equity in her role at United Way of Massachusetts Bay. Grounded in faith and a belief that “when you make an observation, you have an obligation,” Renée reflects on code-switching, mentorship, and what it truly means to lead with courage, authenticity, and purpose.

As we continue our salute to Black History Month, we carry forward a powerful conversation with Dr. Cyntoria Grant on building sustainable movements rooted in leadership, faith, and grace. Dr. Grant reflects on the creation of Parent University in Boston Public Schools, her journey through city government and higher education, and a life-altering accident that led her into a season of stillness, rest, and deep spiritual healing. From learning to sit in God’s quiet to stepping into new leadership at Harvard University, this episode explores how grace, surrender, and faith shape sustainable leadership, empower families, and prepare us for new beginnings.

As we begin Black History Month, we sat down with Dr. Cyntoria Grant, Associate Director of Public School Partnerships, Harvard Ed Portal, for an intimate and inspiring conversation about leadership, faith, and resilience. Dr. Grant reflects on her journey from service-driven beginnings to national impact in education and ministry, sharing powerful lessons from a humbling season marked by professional loss, deep growth, and renewed purpose. Through honesty and wisdom, she reminds us that leadership is rooted in service, elevation requires humility and rest, and faith and community are essential when navigating life’s transitions—especially in seasons of change.