Shayla Akande
Legacy Keeper. Leader. Systems Changer. | Empowering Black Women Through Community & Care
- Role
- Chief Executive Officer at Cierra Sisters
- Location
- Seattle, WA, US
- LinkedIn followers
- 500 followers
About Shayla Akande
Woman of God. Wife. Mama. Legacy builder. CEO. When my mother asked me to take…
Experience
Chief Executive Officer
Jan 2025 — Present
As CEO of Cierra Sisters, I lead a nationally recognized nonprofit organization dedicated to educating, empowering, and advocating for Black women and women of color navigating breast cancer. I carry forward the legacy and vision of our late founder, Bridgette Hempstead, while expanding our impact and strengthening our community-rooted approach.Key Responsibilities and Accomplishments:Oversee strategic planning, operations, and program execution aligned with health equity and culturally responsive careCultivate and manage partnerships with healthcare systems, researchers, and community leadersSpearhead fundraising initiatives, grant acquisition, and donor engagement to support sustainable growthDirect volunteer recruitment, community outreach, and public engagement, including events like World Cancer Day, Wellness on the Block, and World Mammography DayLead the development of research collaborations to address disparities and inform better outcomes for Black womenAdvocate for anti-racism in oncology and equitable access to cancer education and careRepresent Cierra Sisters in media, conferences, and community spaces as a voice for change and empowermentThrough this work, I remain committed to building a legacy of wellness, advocacy, and support for future generations.
Education
National University
Master's degree, Marriage and Family Therapy/Counseling
Bellevue College
Associate's degree, Psychology
2011 — 2013
Howard University
Bachelor’s Degree, Communication
2013 — 2016
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