News Summary
Nathifa Forde, executive director of NYC Her Future, is leading efforts to empower young women and girls of color in New York City. With a $43 million plan initiated by Mayor Eric Adams, Forde is dedicated to addressing gender disparities and creating programs that foster economic opportunities and leadership for women. Her advocacy extends to education, community support, and addressing systemic barriers, positioning NYC as a model for gender equity and empowerment.
New York City on the Move for Gender Equity!
In the vibrant streets of New York City, a dynamic leader is making waves with a mission close to her heart. Nathifa Forde, the executive director of NYC Her Future, is dedicated to tackling the issues that young women and girls of color face every day. With a vision for a more equitable future, she’s leading the charge in a city that’s determined to uplift voices that have long been silenced.
Empowering Women and Girls of Color
NYC Her Future was launched as part of a groundbreaking initiative from Mayor Eric Adams, who introduced a $43 million plan specifically aimed at addressing gender disparities across the chatty metropolis. Forde’s appointment as executive director brings a wealth of experience and passion for advocacy. Having previously served in a leadership role within the NYC Young Men’s Initiative, she understands the importance of a holistic approach to overcoming systemic barriers.
A Focus on Leadership
Nathifa Forde’s commitment to empowering women is evident in her relentless pursuit of leadership initiatives within the city government. It’s not just about making policy changes; it’s about creating vital programming and support that truly benefits those who need it most. Under her wing, women-led nonprofits and Minority Women-Owned Business Enterprises are receiving enhanced economic opportunities, opening doors that were once closed. This is a game-changer that fosters not only individual growth but community growth as well.
Building Networks of Support
Forde also actively participates in gatherings focused on women of color, creating a network of support and advocacy that resonates throughout the public service landscape. These meetups are crucial for fostering unity and collaboration among like-minded individuals who are equally passionate about effecting change. Forde recognizes that strong networks can empower women to take on leadership roles and amplify their influence in society.
Education and Mentorship
Her influence doesn’t stop there. With a knack for education, Forde has shared her insights as an adjunct professor of public administration at the City University of New York for eight years. Her students benefit not only from her expertise but also from the real-world applications of her advocacy. By nurturing the next generation, she’s creating a ripple effect of change that extends far beyond her tenure.
A Whole-Family Approach
One of her standout beliefs is that supporting Black and Latino boys is intrinsically tied to uplifting the women who nurture and raise them. This understanding has shaped her approach to programming. By implementing initiatives such as doula training in partnership with CUNY, Forde addresses pressing issues like the Black maternal mortality crisis, bridging the gap between healthcare and community wellbeing.
Preparing for the Future
Another substantial effort has been her launch of a college readiness leadership program designed to support young women. In collaboration with organizations like Young Women’s Empowerment and NYC Public Schools, this program focuses on mentorship and wellness, providing girls with the tools and confidence they need to succeed academically and beyond.
Recognized Dedication
Nathifa Forde’s career-long dedication to fighting disparities faced by young women and girls of color is nothing short of inspiring. As she tackles these challenges head-on with both vigor and compassion, her contributions to the community stand as a testament to the power of strong, resolute leadership. With allies like Forde championing the cause, the future looks increasingly bright for women and girls of color in the Big Apple.
The road ahead may not always be smooth, but with leaders like Nathifa Forde at the helm, NYC is well on its way to becoming a model of gender equity and empowerment for cities across the nation. The movement is alive, and it’s got the heart of New York City beating strong!
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Additional Resources
- Crain’s New York: Nathifa Forde – Women in Influence 2025
- Wikipedia: Gender Equity
- City & State NY: 2024 Trailblazers in Economic Development
- Google Search: Nathifa Forde
- Crain’s New York: Women in Influence 2025
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Women in Leadership
- Google News: Gender Equity in New York City
Author: STAFF HERE NEW YORK WRITER
NEW YORK STAFF WRITER The NEW YORK STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewYork.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in New York, the five boroughs, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as New York Fashion Week, Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, and Tribeca Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater New York Chamber of Commerce and United Way of New York, plus leading businesses in finance and media that power the local economy such as JPMorgan Chase, Goldman Sachs, and Bloomberg. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBuffalo.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into New York's dynamic landscape.
