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Meet Kyla.

Director of Programming

Kyla Roland was born and raised in Detroit, Michigan. She is a graduate of Davidson College where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology. After graduating from Davidson, Kyla spent the following 8 months living and studying abroad in Trinidad and Tobago, Norway, and South Africa where she researched the various factors that contribute to gender disparities in STEM. Currently, Kyla works as an IRTA fellow at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). After two years of training, Kyla aspires to pursue her PhD in a field of biomedical science. Kyla is passionate about breaking down barriers to STEM literacy and accessibility. As Roots Strong's Director of Programming, Kyla will play an important role in planning, organizing, and initiating programs and projects that will meet the needs of the youth and communities we serve.

Fun Facts about Kyla.

 

Share with us some fun facts about yourself

I played Division 1 basketball for 4 years at Davidson College!

When you hear the words, “Roots Strong”, what does it mean to you?

Roots Strong emphasizes the “root” because having a strong foundation is essential for growth. In the same vein, you must address the root causes of disparity and inequality within communities in order for them to grow. Roots Strong combines both of these ideas to serve global communities of youth, who are the roots of our future.

What are some social issues that you are passionate about?

I am passionate about STEM literacy and accessibility, social justice and Black radicalism, and mental and physical health.

If you could fix 1-3 world problems affecting youth, what would they be?

If I could fix three world problems affecting youth, they would be to improve access to safe outdoor spaces for recreation and play, to decrease food deserts and increase agricultural literacy, and to emphasize self-determination and imagination in all aspects of life.

Women Strong.

Roots Strong is our youth.