Using literacy,

the arts, and mentorship

to advance educational equity

for youth of color while keeping 

their identities & well-being at the core.

Our Mission

Our Mission

LitiArts provides literacy, arts education, and higher education mentorship to youth of color to sustain their identities, support their well-being, and enhance equity in their educational journeys.

Learn More

Our Vision

We envision a world where all youth around the world will pursue their educational, career, and life endeavors without sacrificing their identities and overall well-being. 

Our Programs

Literacy-Arts Workshops

LitiArts combines literacy and the arts to strengthen students’ literacy skills, affirm their identities, and support their well-being.

Learn More

Virtual College & Career Preparation Fellowship

The college & career preparation process is not a one-size-fits-all approach. LitiArts provides 1-on-1 mentorship to first-generation and high school juniors of color as they prepare for and transition to college.

Learn More

Annual Art Gala & Fundraiser

We host an annual gala and fundraiser with students, families, community members, and donors.

Learn More

COLLEGE ACCEPTANCES

Colleges and Universities Our Fellows Have Been Accepted To


OUR impact

Academic


100% of students gained acceptance into their preferred university/college programs.

Identity


85% of students felt more confident about transitioning into their freshman year of college.

Well-being


80% of students showed growth in their ability to self-assess their mental wellbeing.

Funding


100% of students received funding in the form of a scholarship or grant from at least 1 college.

TESTIMONIALS

from Our College & Career Prep Fellows

"LitiArts provided me with so much support during the college application process and helped me showcase my efforts and talents effectively on my college applications. My mentor also helped me answer questions about the college process."

- Faith O., University of Texas at Austin, C/O 2027

"My LitiArts mentor helped me during my freshman year with literally everything. They directed me to campus resources and connected me with a Resident Physician at George Washington University Hospital. The doctor provided me with pre-med resources and gave me tips in preparation for med school."

- Emani K., Michigan State University, C/O 2026

"I was very anxious because I felt behind with my application deadlines, so  we did a visualization  activity.  I felt less anxious and more confident about moving forward with my applications. LitiArts provided less stress and reminded me to take everything in small steps."

- Aniyah R., Grand Valley State University, C/O 2027

Our Founder, Dr. Lakeya Afolalu, In the Media

Speaking Through the Arts

Dr. Lakeya Afolalu gave a talk titled 'Speaking Through the Arts,' discussing the power of the arts for youth who often become quiet in U.S. schools because their language 'sounds different' from their peers.

Watch Here

Embracing A Broader Definition of Literacy

In this interview, Dr. Lakeya Afolalu discusses how literacy extends beyond reading and writing, highlighting its impact on creativity, identity, and the well-being of youth.

Read Here

Culturally Responsive Approaches to Literacy

Dr. Lakeya Afolalu, featured in The Seattle Times, challenges the science of reading as it is applied to close literacy gaps for children of color. Her work emphasizes the need for more culturally responsive approaches to truly support and empower diverse learners.

Read Here
Share by: