DHAKIYYA
LEWIS

Over the last 14 years, I have gained a diverse array of experience in community partnership development, workforce development, outreach and marketing, program management and operations, funding and grants management, budget management, regulatory compliance and monitoring, and policy and procedure development.  In each of these areas, I have worked to develop a strategic vision that aligns with corporate goals and set measurable data-driven outcomes. Through my diverse experiences, I have obtained other unique skill sets that are essential to program operations and community engagement. I’ve used my entrepreneurial spirit to enhance pre-existing programs or develop and implement new or pilot programs.  

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Some of that time was spent focused on services directed toward the youth of our communities. I developed and implemented innovative youth service initiatives, coordinated training classes with urban and rural youth developers, and provided subject matter expertise to grow current youth development initiatives. In each of these areas, I've obtained measured success and results-oriented initiatives. 

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My work with the State of Georgia Division of Family & Children Services (DFCS) has fostered my understanding of the complexities of running a statewide initiative. I've developed and implemented programs that provide workforce development to opportunity youth, as well as assessed how these initiatives must be customized to meet the diverse demands of urban and rural areas. 

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Along my journey I obtained a Bachelor’s degree in psychology from Alabama State University and a Masters of Community Counseling from Argosy University, it is easy to see that I truly work to understand people and their needs. Add together my need to create and  innate willingness to serve others and you get my life's purpose to boldly support others on the road to success. I work to create opportunities and spaces for people to live their best life and be the best they can be (cheesy, I know) at any moment in time. I find joy in having a part, if even a small one, in the joy others experience. This  has come in many forms for me;  I’ve presented/facilitated at local &regional conferences, developed and implemented programs and more.

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I have also leveraged my leadership experience to serve on committees, boards, and work groups, as well as develop key partnerships.  Here, I gained numerous transferable skills in relationship building, partnership development, and outreach. 

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I have a diverse portfolio of professional development in leadership, organizational development, case management, federal government compliance, university research compliance and sponsored programs, workforce development, economic mobility and community development. The diversity of my experiences as a strategist, community partner, and results-oriented leader has shaped my strengths in building systems and programs along with creating replicable strategies for results. 

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I received emerging leader awards in 2013 and 2015 for my work in public service. In 2019, I had the honor of being a March of Dimes Women of Distinction Finalist. An award that recognizes and honors women in Georgia for their professional achievements and their dedication to civic engagement and community service.​