Makenzie Nelson
Richmond,VA
Summary
Driven and passionate student leader with a strong foundation in policy advocacy, civic engagement, and legal studies. Proven experience in legislative initiatives, youth organizing, and public speaking, with a focus on equity, justice, and community empowerment. Founder of Black Print VA, a youth-led organization dedicated to mobilizing Black young adults through policy advocacy, health equity, and cultural celebration. Experienced in collaborating with elected officials, leading advisory councils, and facilitating bipartisan discourse. Aspiring legal professional committed to leveraging law and policy as tools for systemic change.
Overview
2
2
years of professional experience
3
3
Certifications
Work History
Founder & Executive Director
Black Print VA
01.2025 - Current
- Launched a statewide organization empowering Black young adults through civic engagement, health equity, policy reform, and cultural celebration.
- Secured partnerships, organized large-scale events (e.g., Power to the Pack), and led fundraising campaigns to support youth mobilization.
Youth Representative
Metro Richmond Area Young Democrats
01.2024 - Current
- Advocated for youth representation in local political decisions and contributed to voter registration efforts.
- Organized and spoke at school rallies on abortion rights, LGBTQ+ protections, and gun safety legislation.
President
Congresswoman McClellan’s Youth Advisory Council
01.2025 - 09.2025
- Facilitated policy discussions and youth-led advocacy on education, healthcare, and criminal justice reform.
- Spearheaded youth testimony and community engagement strategies to elevate student voices in government.
Legal Scholar
Howard University Summer Legal Institute
07.2025 - 08.2025
- Studied legal foundations, constitutional law, and trial advocacy under Howard Law professors and practicing attorneys.
- Participated in mock trials, case analysis, and networking with Black legal professionals and law students.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Political Science Major, Sociology Minor
Virginia State University
Petersburg, VA05.2029
High School Diploma -
Henrico High School
Richmond, VA05.2025
Skills
- Public Speaking
- Grass-root Organizing
- Legal Research
- Event Planning
- Policy Writing
- Leadership
- Team Management
- Strategic thinking
- Marketing
- Entrepreneurial and innovative
- Ethics and integrity
- Organizational structuring
Accomplishments
- Awarded Delta Sigma Theta High Achiever award for outstanding service to the community.
- Supervised team of 14 staff members.
- Used Microsoft Excel to develop inventory tracking spreadsheets.
Certification
- Introduction to Law, University of Pennsylvania (Coursera Certificate, 2025)
- Feminism & Social Justice, University of California, Santa Cruz (Coursera Certificate, 2021)
- Moral Foundations of Politics, Yale University (Coursera Certificate, 2023)
- Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. High Achievers Award (2025)
Timeline
Legal Scholar
Howard University Summer Legal Institute
07.2025 - 08.2025
Founder & Executive Director
Black Print VA
01.2025 - Current
President
Congresswoman McClellan’s Youth Advisory Council
01.2025 - 09.2025
Youth Representative
Metro Richmond Area Young Democrats
01.2024 - Current
Bachelor of Arts - Political Science Major, Sociology Minor
Virginia State University
High School Diploma -
Henrico High School
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