LaKesh M. Duke

LaKesh Duke is a proud Columbus, OH native who now calls Akron her second

home after 18 years in the community. Growing up in kinship and foster care, she

understands firsthand the challenges many young people face—and the power

that positive adult role models can have. Because caring adults and supportive

spaces made such a difference in her life, LaKesh has committed herself to doing

the same for others.

Over the years, she has worked with youth in several impactful roles, including

Residential Supervisor at The Highlands Teen Pregnancy Shelter and Resident

Advisor with Summit County Kids. She also created two local girls’ groups—

S.H.A.D.E.S. and Pearl Talk—providing safe, empowering spaces for young

women. A lifelong lover of creativity, she is also the owner of Kesh The Creative,

where she brings crafts, joy, and imagination to life.

LaKesh’s dedication to youth doesn’t end when the workday does. She volunteers

as a mentor to young women, leads and facilitates children’s church activities,

and partners with community organizations to build support for families and

youth. Her passion for people led her to earn a BIS and a Certificate in Nonprofit

Management from Kent State University.

Today, LaKesh serves as the Executive Director of Project Ujima, Inc., a nonprofit

that brings diverse groups together to build trust, find common ground, and move

from talk to meaningful action. Through guided Circle dialogues, Ujima helps

communities discover their collective power to make change.

“I consider it an honor to lead an organization that centers the needs of

community. The work challenges me to grow, and it allows me to walk in my

purpose,” LaKesh says.

When she’s not working, you can find her binge-watching nature shows, crafting,

trying out new recipes, or spending time with family and friends.