This summer, Coco Coalition proudly hosted its second cohort of the Coco Fellows Program, an initiative designed to nurture the occupational and intellectual wellness of young Black women. Through a 10-week remote learning experience, this year’s three fellows immersed themselves in marketing, communications, research, and program development, gaining invaluable skills to support their future career journeys.
The Coco Fellows Program, established in 2023, aligns with Coco’s mission to uplift Black women by fostering holistic well-being through the lens of SAMHSA’s 8 Dimensions of Wellness. The fellowship provides a unique opportunity for undergraduate students to gain hands-on experience while connecting with Coco’s mission of community building, empowerment, and wellness. Let’s meet the remarkable women who were part of this summer’s program:
Iniya – Communications & Marketing Fellow
Hailing from New Orleans, Louisiana, Iniya is a junior at the University of New Orleans, pursuing a degree in Marketing. As a Communications & Marketing Fellow, Iniya contributed her creativity and passion to enhance Coco Coalition’s brand visibility. Her goal was to refine the skills she needs to stand out in the competitive field of marketing.
Words of reflection from Iniya
“As I reflect on my time as the Marketing and Communication Fellow for Coco Coalition this summer, I am filled with immense gratitude. This experience has not only allowed me to grow professionally but also deepened my passion for the mission of Coco Coalition. Working alongside such a dedicated team has been incredibly inspiring, and I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to our shared goals. I am excited to continue supporting Coco Coalition and will gladly volunteer my time to further our impact in the community. Thank you for an unforgettable summer!”
Iniya’s drive to be a leader in her field makes her an inspiring example of what the Coco Fellows Program aims to cultivate: empowered, confident young Black women ready to make a mark in their chosen careers.
Jaelyn – Research & Program Development Fellow
From Jacksonville, Florida, Jaelyn is a senior at Spelman College, majoring in Psychology with a concentration in Mental Health. As a Research and Program Development Fellow, Jaelyn's work was focused on developing new programming to address the mental health challenges of Black mothers.
Jaelyn’s passion for early childhood mental health was a driving force behind her participation in the fellowship. “I want to work as a preschool teacher while pursuing my master’s degree in child psychology,” she explained. “I know firsthand that the mental health of children is important, though it is often overlooked.” Coco’s emphasis on wellness and mental health gave Jaelyn the platform to deepen her knowledge and prepare for a career dedicated to addressing mental health disparities in children by addressing the needs of their caregivers..
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Morgan – Research & Program Development Fellow
A junior at Spelman College, Morgan is majoring in Comparative Women’s Studies with a concentration in Women’s Health Pre-Nursing and a minor in Creative Writing. Originally from Atlanta, Georgia, Morgan’s academic interests lie at the intersection of health policy, reproductive rights, and women’s health.
Morgan’s future aspirations include pursuing a career in nursing, specifically in pediatrics, labor and delivery, or postpartum care. Through the Coco Fellows Program, she was able to hone her research and advocacy skills, essential for the career she envisions. "I am passionate about health policy and advocacy initiatives," she shared, adding that the fellowship has better prepared her for evidence-based practice and addressing social determinants of health. Morgan sees Coco as not only a stepping stone for her career but also a community of support and empowerment for Black women’s health and wellness.
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These three exceptional young women exemplify the spirit of the Coco Fellows Program—one that nurtures the intellectual growth and professional development of Black women while fostering a sense of community and holistic well-being. Through their dedication, passion, and hard work, they are not only building bright futures for themselves but also paving the way for future generations of Black women leaders.
We are beyond proud of Iniya, Jaelyn, and Morgan and look forward to seeing the amazing work they will continue to do in their communities and beyond.
Together, we thrive.
To learn more about the program, please visit www.cococoalition.org
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