Dope Black People is a nonprofit organization rooted in the unwavering belief that Black excellence deserves to be uplifted, celebrated, and amplified. Our mission is simple but powerful: to create spaces where the beauty, talent, and resilience of everyday Black individuals are centered and celebrated. From artists to educators, community leaders to entrepreneurs, we believe that every Black person has a story worth telling and a legacy worth honoring.

We exist to provide relief from the oppressive spaces that often diminish Black joy. By reclaiming the narrative, we empower Black voices, celebrate Black culture, and build community through storytelling, social gatherings, collective learning, and wellness initiatives.

Jaleesa Williams, LMSW – Founder & Executive Director

Jaleesa Williams is a force for healing, connection, and joy. A proud native of Chicago’s South Side, she carries the spirit of resilience and community wherever she goes. As a Licensed Master Social Worker with deep expertise in complex trauma, Jaleesa understands the profound impact of racial trauma on the mind, body, and soul. She also knows that healing isn’t just about surviving—it’s about thriving in spaces where you are seen, valued, and celebrated.

That’s exactly why she founded Dope Black People—a movement born from the urgent need for Black folks in West Michigan to find community, refuge, and joy in a world that too often denies them both. She believes in the power of brave spaces—places where people can gather, share stories, learn, grow, and unapologetically be. Whether it’s deep conversations, collective learning, or simply vibing over good food and music, Jaleesa is committed to creating spaces where Black people can breathe, be well, and belong.

At her core, Jaleesa is a community builder, storyteller, and wellness advocate, dedicated to making sure Black people have the space to rest, recharge, and reclaim their power. Because being dope isn’t just about what you do—it’s about who you are.