Through innovative teacher training programs, Dr. Akbar is building a pipeline of teachers who have a deep commitment to practicing equitable teaching practices for New Orleans students, who are predominantly Black. Dr. Akbar’s work aims to address the national teacher shortage and the departure of educators in New Orleans following Hurricane Katrina.

Leaders of Color alum Jason Sharif founded RESPECT the Haven CDC to serve the Whitehaven community in Memphis and remove those barriers to success.