Meet Our Board
Founder and President
Teonah Applewhite, SHRM-CP
Teonah Applewhite, an extraordinary individual who has made it her life's mission to empower and uplift the youth in Durham. As a New Jersey native, Teonah has called Durham home since 2014 and has seamlessly woven herself into the fabric of this vibrant community.
For the past nine years, Teonah has honed her skills and expertise in the private sector, working with a Fortune 500 health insurance company. However, In 2023, she discovered her true passion for youth empowerment and founded Durham's Hope for Kids. But her commitment to making a difference doesn't stop there. Teonah is a Certified Youth Life Coach through the CASE Institute, founded by the esteemed Dr. Shauntel Peak-Jimenez. This certification has equipped her with the knowledge and skills necessary to guide and support young individuals in their personal and professional development. In addition to this certification, Teonah is in her final year at North Carolina Central University, focusing on Behavioral and Social Sciences with a concentration in Child Development and Family Relations.
Board Chair
Kymona Thomas
Kymona Thomas is a passionate advocate for under-served youth, dedicated to ensuring equal access to educational resources and support services.
In her current role as a Financial Wellness Consultant at Creative Planning, Kymona delivers the firm's Financial Wellness program to clients nationwide. Her expertise spans retirement planning, relationship management, content development, and personalized consultations. With over 10 years of experience, she has also worked at Empower, TIAA, and Vanguard.
Kymona's commitment extends beyond finance; she previously served as a Group Leader at Catholic Social Services, developing project-based learning lesson plans for high school students. Her professional affiliations include the National Black MBA Association (NBMBAA) and The Junior League of Charlotte.
Board Secretary
Sierra Thomas, PHR
Sierra Thomas is the Board Secretary for Durham's Hope for Kids. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Sociology with a concentration in criminology from Lynchburg University in Virginia. Additionally, Sierra has a Master's degree in Organizational Management. Currently serving as the HR Manager for Warren County, North Carolina,
Sierra is deeply committed to youth development and plays a crucial role in advancing the organization's initiatives. Her dedication to empowering young individuals in Durham makes her an invaluable asset to the team.
Call
919-214-9887