We had the good fortune of connecting with Kamirah Johnson, MSW and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kamirah, what inspires you?
As a African American woman who was raised in the inner city of Atlanta, I’m inspired by the needs of my community. Being a nonprofit founder isn’t easy, but being a change agent on the west side of Atlanta means something to me. The people in my community mean something to me. When children, parents, & the elderly need a helping hand whether it’s school supplies, resume building, toys under the Christmas tree, or even just answering a phone call to listen. It’s a role I don’t take lightly & deem highly important. I was taught as a adolescent at times you will need others during your life’s journey to lift you in times of need. Bridging Our Youth, Inc. is that “someone” to several individuals in our community.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I have a masters in Social Work. I currently work as a Behavioral Health Specialist at a mental health hospital. It definitely wasn’t easy getting to this point in my career. I took an unplanned break during college to start a family. Although, it pressed pause on my plans having a family encouraged me to finish college & pursue my dreams. I’ve learned in the medical field of social work mental health in the African American community is deemed “taboo”. My professional career & nonprofit organization coincide with one another allowing me to use my expertise as a social worker to help in my community. All it takes is a mustard seed of faith and a vision to create something that will last far beyond your time & presence here on Earth. Bridging Our Youth, Inc. will be my mark & continued on through others who have the passion & drive to give back.

Any great local spots you’d like to shoutout?
Ok, so I absolutely love this question being Atlanta born & bred we have several hidden gems. If I had a friend visiting a few places to grab a bite to eat are Twisted Souls Cookhouse, Mr. Everything (the original location on MLK), Le Petite Marche, Old Lady Gang, Local Green, & Negril Village. If you’re looking for scenery & trails the Beltline, Cascade Springs Nature Preserve Trail, Stone Mountain, & Piedmont Park. Atlanta is for sure known for our nightlife a few good places would be Boogalou, Escobar, OAK Atlanta, Gold Room, and Eleven45.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I give all the honor and praise to the head of my life Jesus Christ, who I’m more than certain divine purpose for my life is to help others. I thank my mother (Veronica) for always seeing greatness in me & pushing to be the best. My husband & children (Termius, Kenneth, & Re’Kaela) for unselfishly allowing me to give soo much time to the organization and being part of my vision. My sisters & best friends (Tunissia, Jamaya, Dedra, & Deborah) for always being by my side at events & allowing me to bounce ideas off them. Last but definitely not least my brother & right hand in all we do in this organization Jarvis Gibson, he always goes the extra mile to ensure we serve our community with the highest expectations.

Instagram: Start2Bridge