Higher Learning U Inc.

Our Mission To create holistic village practices that value, empower, and equip young women with the tools they will need for a lifelong journey of personal success and achievement. Our Why Because Black Girls Matter. Black girls are the most likely group of girls to self-identify as leaders and to seek leadership experience. * But because of institutionalized racism and sexism, they are disproportionately likely to experience trauma, they are less likely than their peers to graduate high school on time, and they comprise the fastest growing segment of the youth justice system. Girls of color deserve systems of care and empowerment that are specialized for their experiences, aspirations, and needs. Our Story Higher Learning U, and its primary program African American Young Ladies Summit (AAYLS), was founded in 2017 to connect, uplift, and empower Black girls in Denver Public Schools, and to foment youth-led solutions to address the systemic challenges girls of color face across Metro Denver. From an inaugural event, Higher Learning U/AALYS has grown to host year-round global programming including STEAM experiences (B1st STEAM FUTURES), answering the call from girls and women.

Engagement in African American Young Ladies Summit (AAYLS) affirms: • Academic scholarship (Present & Future) • Overcoming racial barriers in society, school, and in life • Afro beauty (Beauty, Fashion, History and Art) • Community Engagement & Financial Stability • Belonging, Health & Connecting • Leadership, Advocacy, Self-worth & Confidence 2024-2025: Issues 2 Action (Virtual as school /groups) October 4th Summit IIX (Colorado Community Church-CCC) November 14th Global Leadership Retreat (Orlando) February 13th-17th Sista 2 Sista (3rd- College) (CCC) March 6th Black Excellence Showcase (Hamilton Mid.) April 18th Africans in Diaspora Global Sojourn June 29th-July 11th