Today we’d like to introduce you to Janiyah Walker.
Hi Janiyah, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I started my nonprofit Cloud100, because I know what it’s like to lack guidance in life. To be your own mother and father. The name “Cloud100” comes from a personal blog I had during my time in the foster care system that helped me cope with the traumas and day-to-day experiences I faced throughout my life during that period. As a child, when you have to be your own guidance, the psychological issues and hoops you jump through are painful. No one is there to nurture or protect you. This organization is an “ode” to my younger self and to all the youth that come after me. “You don’t have to do this alone.”
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
While it has not been an inherently “smooth” rode whatsoever, it has been an inspiring one. For years I had the idea to start this organization but I didn’t know where to begin. After putting it off for so long, it took a phone call from a former caseworker that made me finally say to myself “You know what? Let’s just see where this goes!” I started my nonprofit by myself, bringing on my amazing team and board members one by one from various job sites and social blogs. It was definitely a challenge and still is as we’re still very new, but there is no reward without risk.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Cloud100 Inc.?
Cloud100 is a community-driven nonprofit dedicated to empowering youth in foster care and low-income communities with access to technology, mental health resources, and real-world career skills. We believe every young person deserves opportunity, confidence, and a strong future.
We are known for our local “future-ready” workshops and trainings. We are intentional about all the work we do as the future of America’s workforce is changing by the day it seems, we want to prepare today’s youth for tomorrow’s technological advances. We prioritize the specific needs of the demographic we serve regarding their mental health, learning desires and capabilities. We “meet youth where they’re at”, ensuring that all of our educational material is not just current and relevant but also trauma informed.
We’re currently in the development stages of our very own “in-pocket mentor” AI model. We want youth to know that no matter their circumstances or the state of the world that they have the ability to acclimate and achieve.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
In everything and anything you do, do it with compassion and passion.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://projectcloud100.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/cloud100inc
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564855200503
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/105814030
