“For me, it isn’t enough to be a leader of color in education. It is critical that I unapologetically represent and serve Oakland’s students of color. I’m excited to connect and lead with a group of peers who are equally passionate about strengthening the landscape of education in Oakland in meaningful, creative, and transformative ways. The…
“I believe humans and myself thrive when we understand why we do our work and find ways to continue to be inspired. I am passionate about seeking a diverse and critical body of teachers and leaders who look like the students we work and grow alongside. As students and leaders of color, we continue to…
“The Surge Fellowship acknowledges that we are the best advocates and creators of change for our own communities. I want to be part of Surge because it understands the power of our own community and is willing to invest in radical ways to challenge the manifestation of intersectional oppression. Surge understands that the work continues…
“Reform will require more than representation—it will require reflection. Future change agents and leaders need to see themselves in the change agents and leaders of today. I still have a lot more growth to do personally, socially, and professionally, and I think it is too late to count myself as a leader of tomorrow. The…
“A fellowship program trains aspiring professionals for the careers they seek. The Surge movement goes beyond, seeking to change the face of leadership in education. Rather than simply being a program where individuals can work on their personal professional goals, the Surge Fellowship is creating a network where people of color can learn together, connect…
“Diversity in leadership is necessary across all sectors, but most critically in education. We have the opportunity to develop our students to be the next generation of socially conscious changemakers but lack the representation they need to feel empowered to take action. It is essential that leaders guiding our students and making decisions on their…
“The idea of a coalition of leaders of color driving enduring change is what has most compelled me to be a part of the fellowship. To me, Surge means a shift in power—specifically the idea that women and men of color have the capacity to not only lead in this movement but shape this movement.…
“I am excited to help lead a systematic movement that creates structures for our communities to have the knowledge, human capital, and resources we need to thrive.” Harold Pearson is the Executive Director of SPAAT, a non-profit corporation he co-founded to serve student athletes in the Oakland Bay Area. His experiences as a high school…
“Programs like Surge are essential to sustaining the movement for justice and equity through community, allyship, mentorship, shared struggle, shared successes, and a commitment to continually learn and evolve together.” Sonya Mehta lives, works, and engages in progressive education reform work in Oakland, CA. For five years, she taught kindergarten at a Title I school…
“As a Bay Area native, I am deeply devoted to serving younger generations here. The Surge Fellowship will present me with a unique opportunity to grow as a leader and in community with other educators of color. Our work together can empower young people to not only know themselves as scholars but to fight for…