Fund II Foundation

February 20 marks World Day of Social Justice. Social justice is the foundation for progress. Today, let’s reaffirm our commitment to fairness, equal opportunity and dignity for all. Poverty, inequality and exclusion continue to limit opportunities for millions around the world. More than 700 million people still live in extreme poverty, and systemic barriers continue to prevent many from accessing education, employment and financial resources. We have a real opportunity to change these realities by investing in solutions that open doors for everyone. This is why I am dedicated to the mission of initiatives like Student Freedom Initiative (SFI) and Southern Communities Initiative (SCI) — both designed to remove financial and structural barriers that hold communities back. By expanding access to education, capital and economic mobility, we’re creating sustainable pathways to opportunities that can improve entire communities and prepare individuals for long-term success. I was reminded of the power of solidarity during my visit to Poland for the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz. While there, I reflected on the shared struggles and long history of allyship between the Black and Jewish communities. Throughout history, we have seen examples of people standing together against injustice to drive transformative change. Social justice is a responsibility. We all have a role to play in shaping a more just society.

February 4 marks Rosa Parks Day. Known as the “Mother of the Civil Rights Movement,” Rosa Parks changed the course of history when she refused to give up her seat on a bus in Montgomery, Alabama, in 1955. Her brave stand against injustice sparked the Montgomery Bus Boycott, a 381-day movement that became a cornerstone of the Civil Rights Movement. This act of defiance challenged systemic inequality and inspired countless others to demand justice and equal rights for Black Americans across the country. The National Park Service highlights several places that help tell Rosa Parks’ story, including: ● The Rosa Parks Museum in Montgomery, commemorating her life and role in the boycott. ● The Selma to Montgomery National Historic Trail, tracing the path of the Civil Rights marches she supported. ● The National Mall, showing where the impact of the Civil Rights Movement is etched into our collective memory. Rosa Parks reminds us that change begins when we stand up — or, in her case, stay seated — for what’s right. Her legacy is a powerful example of how one person’s courage and conviction can create opportunities and transform lives. Today, as we honor Rosa Parks’ birthday, let’s reflect on how we can continue her work by standing against injustice and lifting up those who need it most.

We know finding quality paid internships and resources can be tough, but internXL is here to help! SWIPE ?? to learn more about how internXL connects you to tools, mentorship, and opportunities designed to help you succeed. ?? We simplify the process by connecting students with roles that match their skills. Ready to make your career dreams a reality? ??Sign up for a free account today on internXL.org. #internXl?#CollegeInternship?#HBCUPride?#PaidInternship?#HBCUinternships

Our partner JPMorganChase has an exciting opportunity for internXL scholars! Applications are now open for the 2025 ABP/AHL Fellowship Program, an incredible opportunity for you to gain valuable experience in the financial services industry. Apply now to kick-start your professional journey! ?? Open to current sophomores, the program offers a five-week paid, full-time summer fellowship held in select JPMorganChase offices. Are you interested in financial services careers and committed to the advancement of individuals from underrepresented groups in this industry? Apply today! ?? https://lnkd.in/esbGMMrd

Growing up in my beloved community in Denver, Colorado, I learned from an early age about the power of giving back and making a positive impact on your own community. Everyone has the capacity to improve the condition of someone or something that they care about. That has informed the way I approach giving. Last month, I spoke with Omose Ighodaro and Inc. Magazine about how #philanthropy can drive systemic change, create opportunity and ultimately, improve lives. Check out our full conversation. https://bit.ly/4fdSv1S

Attending conferences for students can be a game-changer for your career and a great way to build new professional connections. That's why we sponsored 100+ students to attend AFROTECH to connect with Black tech innovators and industry leaders. ?? Press play to hear some of our scholars talk about their experience at this year’s conference! ? “By being poured into and by people looking out for me and offering me opportunities, I feel renewed and I feel this new strength to continue on looking for jobs and careers.” Want to be the first to know about the next event? ?? Click the link below to sign up for an internXL account today! https://internxl.org/ #internXL #HBCUPride #AfroTech24 #HBCUStrong #techcareers #studentsuccess #internshipopportunities

Grambling State University has made history as the first #HBCU to open a digital library. This 50,000-square-foot Digital Library and Learning Commons is a game-changer. It offers students access to cutting-edge technology and 17,000 square feet of collaborative study spaces. It also provides resources designed to spark creativity and innovation. Spaces like this are catalysts for growth, providing underrepresented students with tools to thrive in today’s digital world. For HBCUs, they represent a bold step forward. They ensure students have access to the same state-of-the-art resources as their peers, leveling the playing field for future leaders. I know how impactful investments like these can be. From my support for infrastructure improvements to scholarships for HBCU students in STEM, I’ve seen firsthand how transformative these opportunities are for students and their communities. Grambling’s digital library is proof of what’s possible when we invest in education and equity.

My journey as an intern at Nokia Bell Labs taught me firsthand about the transformative power of #internships. These critical opportunities enable young students to learn skills and gain valuable experience early in their careers that opens doors and possibilities. That’s why I’m passionate about creating internships for young people today. Internships for high school students are becoming a growing focus for companies looking to bridge the gap between education and the workforce. According to American Student Assistance, these roles equip students with essential skills like communication, teamwork and problem-solving, setting them on a path to success. For students from underrepresented communities, internships can be especially life-changing, offering access to industries like #STEM and businesses that often lack diversity. Through internXL, we’re ensuring students from all backgrounds have a chance to connect with these valuable experiences. By fostering mentorship and onramps to careers, we can help shape a more inclusive and equitable workforce.

This #GivingTuesday, I am reminded of the power we all have to create meaningful, lasting change. Philanthropy has always been a personal commitment for me, rooted in the belief that we must invest in communities to foster opportunity and break down barriers to success. Giving isn’t just about financial contributions; it’s about creating systemic change that allows people to thrive. Whether a contribution goes towards education, racial equity or economic empowerment, the goal of philanthropy is to build a more just society where every person has access to the resources they need. I have been fortunate to support a range of initiatives that I believe can transform lives. Through Fund II Foundation, we’ve worked to preserve Black American culture and provide opportunities for underrepresented communities. From supporting Student Freedom Initiative, which alleviates the burden of student debt for graduates of HBCUs, to driving economic development and revitalization in communities in the South with Southern Communities Initiative (SCI), I am determined to help build a future where everyone has the necessary support to succeed. I encourage all of us to think about the causes we care deeply about and the ways we can make a difference. Every act of generosity, whether large or small, creates a ripple effect that can impact people and change lives. https://bit.ly/3ZhYhtI

This #CyberMonday, let’s talk innovation!?????How can AI and technology support Black Maternal Health? We’d love to hear your perspective. ???Take a moment to share your thoughts in our quick online survey—it’s your chance to help shape the future of?AI and tech for Black moms. https://bit.ly/BMH-Survey Together, we can spark solutions that truly make a difference. Let’s co-create a healthier tomorrow. ???This reel highlights: ????Dominique Young-Smith,?BMH?Program Manager, breaking down how Fund II Foundation is leading change and connecting?leaders?for Black maternal health equity. ???????Yaadira Brown, MD, MPH, MBA running #AskADoc, answering health and tech questions with the expert advice our community needs. ???William G. Hudson of Qualtrics teaming up with us?to understand how we can use?AI and tech?to transform the landscape of BMH?while amplifying Black voices. ?????Ijeoma Uche, MPH and Mercy Oladipo,?co-founders of Birth By Us, showing how their tech tools are designed to uplift and empower Black birthing families. Your voice is the key to change! Take the survey today and help shape the future of Black maternal health with AI and tech that works for us. #NurtuHERVillage #TechForUs #BlackMaternalHealth #BMHEquity #AfroTech2024 #AskADoc #BirthByUs #FundIIFoundation #InnovationForEquity #CommunityForChange