About us.

 

 

 

Building a Brighter Future Through Innovation, Talent, and Youth Empowerment

Learn how Nubian Improvement Association (NIA) is shaping stronger communities across New York City and beyond. 

The Nubian Improvement Association (NIA) was founded in 2020 by Shantel Nubian, a visionary STEAM educator and community activist. Born from a deep-seated desire to bridge the educational and economic gaps in underserved communities, NIA was established on the principles of empowerment, education, and community transformation.

Shantel Nubian’s journey began in East Flatbush, Brooklyn, where she witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by her community, including poverty, homelessness, high rates of incarceration, unemployment, and educational disparities.

Motivated by these challenges, she envisioned an organization that would provide comprehensive educational programs, mentorship, and economic development initiatives, tailored specifically to the needs of marginalized
communities.

Founding Principles

Nubian Improvement Association (NIA) was built on the foundational belief that education and access to technological resources are pivotal in transforming individual lives and, by extension, entire communities. The organization’s principles include:

• Empowerment through Education: Promoting lifelong learning and personal
development.
• Community Collaboration: Partnering with local businesses, schools, and other organizations to maximize community impact.
• Innovation and Sustainability: Encouraging creative solutions and sustainable practices in STEAM and green technologies.
• Pan African Innovation: Creating safe spaces and innovative platforms to address the neglected needs of the African American and global African Diaspora community.

IMPACT: Past Achievements and Milestones

NIA has reached several significant milestones:

  •  Educational Programs: Successfully launched and sustained multiple STEAM-based educational initiatives through partner, Nubian Steam LLC, and served over 2,000 students in New York City.
  • Scholarships: Donated over 100 robotics kits, laptops, stipends to under-resourced youth in New York City.
  • Community Partnerships: Established strong partnerships with local schools and community centers to facilitate a range of educational and mentorship programs.
  • Recognition and Awards: Received multiple community service awards for contributions to educational reform and community development.
  • Expansion of Services: Expanded programming to include career and college preparatory services, which have significantly increased college admission rates among participants.

Our Team

Meet the passionate individuals behind NIA.

Operation Coordinator

Shantel Nubian

Operation Coordinator

Shantel Nubian

Operation Coordinator

Shantel Nubian

Operation Coordinator

Rosa Smith

Operation Coordinator

Rosa Smith

Operation Coordinator

Rosa Smith