Executive Director & Founder

Carlos Shields is a Senior Manager of Training and Development at a prominent New York hospital system, where he utilizes his expertise to shape the future of healthcare professionals. In addition to his role in healthcare, Carlos serves as an Adjunct Professor at WCC, imparting his knowledge and experience to aspiring professionals in the field. While maintaining a short list of private fitness and nutritional clients.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Carlos is deeply committed to community service and holistic wellness. For over 15 years, he has collaborated with New York Cares, working with youth in afterschool and before-school programs focused on financial literacy, nutrition, and academic readiness. Carlos has also contributed to medical missions with Hands Up for Haiti, providing essential medical services to hundreds of children in Cap Haitien.

Carlos's dedication to fostering healthier communities extends to his work with Active Plus NYC, a non-profit organization that promotes athletics and wellness among youth across all five boroughs of New York City. Additionally, for over two decades, Carlos has been involved with Midnight Run, offering assistance to the homeless by providing food and support.

Educationally, Carlos holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Organizational Management and dual Master of Business Administration degrees in Healthcare Management and Information Systems. His commitment to continuous learning is underscored by prestigious certifications from Harvard in Higher Education, Yale in Social and Emotional Learning, and Cornell in Diversity and Inclusion reflecting his dedication to personal growth and empowerment.

As a Certified Personal Trainer, Classroom Instructor, and DOTfit Certified Nutritional Coach, Carlos exemplifies his holistic approach to wellness, empowering individuals to achieve their health and fitness objectives. As the driving force behind Lift Up Lab Inc., an organization under his leadership, Carlos is dedicated to equipping youth with vital skills in emotional intelligence, entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and holistic health and fitness. His mission is to ensure that young individuals are fully prepared for success in all aspects of their lives.

- To God be the Glory!

Board of Directors, Chair

Geovante Crawford currently serves Principal Fellow and Dean of Curriculum and Instruction at for Uncommon Schools in Brooklyn, New York. Geovante is a native of Richmond, VA, and he attended the illustrious Hampton University where he earned his Bachelor's of Science in Biology on the pre-med track and his Master's of Science in Biology. Geovante also graduated from Relay Graduate School of Education with his Master's of Arts in Teaching with a Concentration in Adolescents Biology Grades (7-12). A former college professor at Virginia Union University, a Historically Black College and University, he realized he had a passion for teaching students of color.

Board of Directors

Amber Berry is the inaugural Vice President of AI and Strategy for Middle States Association (MSA). She worked in public and independent schools for 15 years, most recently at St. Luke's School in Connecticut. She got her start in education as a French teacher then joined the leadership team as World Language Department Chair, the Director of Teaching Fellows, and Division Head.  Amber has a special interest in school change with particular emphasis on teacher growth and development. She is a member of Excelle Collective for women in educational leadership.

Amber earned a B.A. from Princeton University in French & Italian with minors in African American Studies and The Program in Teacher Preparation. She went on to earn her M.A. in French linguistics and pedagogy from Middlebury College and a M.Ed. in Private School Leadership from Columbia University Teachers College Klingenstein Program. In commitment to continuing education, she spent the winter of 2024 participating in a Positive Intelligence and she completed a Mini-MBA in AI for Business through Section School.

After taking control of her own health, Amber has become an advocate for healthy lifestyles by sharing her journey to reverse Type 2 Diabetes. She actively supports the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), where she and her husband serve on the Young Leadership Alliance. Amber is also a member of the foundation board of Wissahickon Charter School in Philadelphia PA. On weekends, Amber embraces her role as an NFL wife, cheering on the Philadelphia Eagles alongside her two sons, aged five and seven.

Board of Directors, Treasure

Jessica Lewis serves as the Treasurer on the Board of Directors for Lift Up Lab Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to providing enriching after-school programs for middle schoolers. With a wealth of experience in tax operations and financial management, Jessica brings invaluable expertise to the organization's leadership team.

Jessica has held several significant positions in reputable companies, demonstrating her dedication to financial excellence and operational efficiency. She currently serves as a Senior Manager in Tax Operations at Netflix, where she has been instrumental in managing tax accounting and reporting processes. Her tenure at Netflix follows successful stints at KAYAK and OpenTable, where she held similar roles, showcasing her adaptability and proficiency in diverse corporate environments.

Before transitioning to the tech and entertainment sectors, Jessica held key positions at Terex Corporation, ITT Inc., and The Pepsi Bottling Group, where she honed her skills in tax accounting, financial reporting, and regulatory compliance. Her extensive experience includes managing tax provisions, preparing tax returns, and implementing automated processes to streamline operations.

Jessica's professional journey began at EY, where she served as a Senior Consultant in Financial Services, working with prestigious clients such as Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, and Citigroup. Her responsibilities included tax analysis, financial statement preparation, and managing tax examination proceedings, highlighting her ability to thrive in fast-paced and dynamic environments.

Jessica holds a strong commitment to giving back to her community, evident through her involvement with Lift Up Lab Inc. Her strategic financial acumen, coupled with her passion for youth development, makes her an invaluable asset to the organization's mission of empowering young minds through education and mentorship.

Outside of her professional endeavors, Jessica is dedicated to continuous learning and personal development. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Accounting and Finance from Albany University, a Master’s Degree in Tax Law from Baruch College and actively participates in professional development programs to stay abreast of industry trends and best practices.

As the Treasurer of Lift Up Lab Inc., Jessica Lewis brings a wealth of financial expertise and a passion for youth empowerment, driving the organization forward in its mission to create a brighter future for middle schoolers through education and enrichment programs.

Board of Directors, Secretary

Chad Southerland has been dedicated to serving as a high school counselor since 2006. Graduating from the George Washington University, Chad began his professional journey with Norwalk Public Schools in Fairfield County, Connecticut. In his role as a counselor and educator, he has actively participated in various summer and afterschool programs and also assumed administrative responsibilities for a year. Chad holds a certificate in educational leadership from Sacred Heart University.

Driven by a deep-seated passion for empowering students to excel in their academic pursuits and post-high school aspirations, Chad is committed to supporting them at every step of their journey. He finds great joy in being part of a team that fosters and nurtures young people's dreams, and he approaches his role with a blend of encouragement, positivity, and warmth. Chad's dedication to assisting students in reaching their full potential is unwavering, reflecting his genuine desire to make a meaningful difference in their lives.

Advisory Board

Peter N. Smith, a native Washingtonian, is the eldest of three boys, born and raised in the vibrant and diverse community of Washington, D.C. He received his foundational education from the esteemed DC Public Schools, where he developed a deep appreciation for the power of education to transform lives.

Driven by his passion for mathematics and his commitment to educational excellence, Peter pursued a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from Tennessee State University, where he received an esteem scholarship for swimming. Upon graduating, he embarked on a remarkable journey in the field of education, spanning over three decades. Peter obtained his Master of Science in Education Administration (Leadership) at Trinity Washington University in Washington, D.C.

With 34 years of dedicated service in educational settings ranging from kindergarten to high school, Peter has honed his skills as an educator, mentor, and leader. His extensive experience has equipped him with invaluable insights into the challenges and opportunities within the education system.

Motivated by his desire to make a lasting impact on the educational landscape, Peter harbors aspirations of becoming an Instructional Superintendent, where he can leverage his expertise to drive positive change at a systemic level. Additionally, he envisions creating an impactful Educational Consulting Service Business, aimed at providing innovative solutions to enhance teaching and learning outcomes.

Peter's unwavering dedication to educational equity, combined with his visionary leadership and commitment to excellence, make him a driving force in the pursuit of educational empowerment and advancement. Through his tireless efforts, he continues to inspire and uplift students, educators, and communities alike, leaving an indelible mark on the future of education.

Advisory Board

Born and raised in Washington, D.C., with a significant portion of childhood spent in Saudi Arabia, Leiya currently calls Harlem, NYC home. With over 15 years of experience in People & Talent Management spanning diverse industries, Leiya has honed expertise in establishing and enhancing People functions and initiatives within startup ecosystems over the past 8 years.

Leiya is passionate about fostering environments where individuals are encouraged to thrive professionally and personally, believing in the importance of providing the necessary tools for career advancement.

During leisure hours, Leiya enjoys indulging in brunch outings, exploring different corners of the globe, and expressing creativity through acrylic artwork.

Advisory Board

Diana Santana brings over two decades of rich experience in communications and international affairs to her current role as the USA Director of Communications for the International Rescue Committee (IRC). Leading communication initiatives within the United States, Diana previously served as the Head of Communications-New York for the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). During her tenure at the ICRC, she spearheaded the establishment and growth of the inaugural Communications Department for the New York Delegation to the UN, serving as a pivotal hub for humanitarian diplomacy and public engagement at both the UN and within the US.

Her professional journey has seen her contribute significantly to various international platforms, including roles at the UK Mission to the UN, Independent Diplomat, United Nations Development Programme, and the Center for International Cooperation. Additionally, she has engaged in fieldwork in rural Kenya, further broadening her global perspective.

Diana's diverse portfolio encompasses advising mayors of New York and Houston, navigating the intricacies of marketing and communications in the financial sector, and providing consulting services to non-profits focusing on diplomacy and public health. Throughout her career, she has been deeply involved in advising refugee organizations and UN Member States on strategic communication for policy advocacy, influence, campaigns, and public awareness initiatives.

Educated at Tulane University in New Orleans, where she pursued Economics and Latin American Studies at the undergraduate level, Diana continued her academic journey at New York University, obtaining a Master’s degree in Political Science with a focus on International Relations.

Outside of her professional endeavors, Diana is an avid runner and dedicates her free time to volunteering in environmental justice initiatives and supporting the unhoused population in New York City. She also maintains an active involvement in her indigenous Mexican-American community, notably as a member of the Carrizo Tribe of South Texas.

Advisory Board

Alexis is a long-time youth worker. She has a Master's of Social Work from Columbia University School of Social Work, with a concentration in school-based social work. She has worked in crisis de-escalation and conflict resolution, program development, community mental health, and educational access. Alexis has worked with youth in the school system, interfacing with the criminal legal and foster care systems, and worked with youth leaders to build power and collective action. Alexis specializes in program development that is trauma informed, anti-oppressive, and rooted in revolutionary love. 

Currently the Director of Programs at The Center for Anti-Violence Education, Alexis has previously worked as Assistant Director of Intake and Program Coordinator at The Door; Associate Director of TRiO Student Success at the Evergreen State College; Youth Crisis Case Manager at Healthcare and Rehabilitation Services; and a program manager at Big Brothers Big Sisters of NYC.

Social Media Manager