Meet Our Team
Our team is made up of educators, facilitators, and community leaders who are deeply committed to the growth and well-being of young people.
They design and lead our programs, build trusted relationships with youth, and create the safe, supportive spaces where learning, healing, and leadership can unfold.
Rev. Gena C. Jefferson
CEO & President
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Rev. Gena has Master Degrees in Special Education, Educational Administration and Social Work from varied institutions. She was ordained by the Interfaith Council of New York, and holds a Certification in Spiritual Life Coaching Training from Inner Visions Institute for Spiritual Development. Gena serves the adult community, is co-owner of Overture Wellness: “Begin With Purpose”, a spiritual life coaching, healing and wellness practice serving individuals, couples, and organizations. She has been quoted in numerous media outlets and most recently appeared on on Bronxnet’s OPEN Show with Dr. Bob Lee, 2022,“The Couch”, a CBS Morning News show, and WPIX Channel 11 morning news.
Rev Katherine Chinue Harold
Lead Facilitator and Supervisor
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Sally is a retired NYC high school health and physical education teacher for 36 years. She was founder and faculty advisor of Murrow’s HEART club (HIV/AIDS, peer education, advocacy and social action club), training students to be peer educators and conduct AIDS quilt workshops during World AIDS Week. Sally is a trustee at the East Midwood Jewish Center and chairperson of the East Midwood Jewish Center/Our Lady of Refuge Church interfaith committee.
Aleeyah Hassan
Senior Peer Educator
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Aleeyah Hassan is a Senior Peer Educator at JAIA and a graduate of the Mindful Leaders Institute. She now supports program facilitation and contributes to curriculum design, helping guide youth through their own development and leadership journey.
She is the founder of Erasing Stigma, Educating Minds, a support initiative for immigrant women. Aleeyah is currently pursuing a degree in Human Services and Community Justice and is on a path toward becoming a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, with a focus on mental health and community impact.
Shawuana Charles
Guest Facilitator and Volunteer
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Shawuana Charles is a former JAIA participant who now serves as a guest facilitator and volunteer. She is a Special Education Coordinator, content creator, and advocate for youth and individuals with disabilities, focused on creating inclusive and supportive spaces.
She is the founder of Sisters For Each Other, a community that supports healing and connection for women and nonbinary individuals. Born and raised in Brooklyn with Caribbean roots, her work is grounded in culture, resilience, and a deep commitment to uplifting youth voices.
Kizzy Joseph
Guest Facilitator and Volunteer
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Kizzy Joseph is a former JAIA program coordinator and now a marriage and family therapist supporting individuals, couples, and families across New York and New Jersey. Her work focuses on self awareness, mindfulness, and healing through a compassionate and grounded approach.
She continues to support JAIA as a volunteer, providing clinical insight and administrative guidance to the Board. Her work reflects a strong commitment to emotional wellbeing, growth, and creating spaces where individuals feel supported and understood.
Support Our Work
Your support helps us continue offering stipends, leadership training, retreats, and transformational programs to youth who need it most.