Executive Director / Founder

Nicole Williams, a Portland native and seasoned journalist, shifted her career focus to something more personal after a period of reflection during the COVID pandemic and the sudden death of her brother in 2020. Motivated further by the societal reckoning following George Floyd’s death, Nicole realized the importance of addressing and navigating the Black experience—especially for families like hers. A powerful moment came when her 5-year-old daughter, seeing police officers at a coffee stand, instinctively told Nicole to hide—highlighting the difficult conversations Black parents are often forced to have with their children. This led Nicole to pursue work that fosters understanding, support, and community through a Black Affinity Group.