I am Deidra O’Neal, MS—a community strategist, a mother of four, and an HBCU graduate with a heart for service. My journey began with a simple observation: in our suburban communities, so many young people and families are "unseen and overlooked." I founded Young, Black, and Suburban Kids (YBS Kids) to change that. My mission is to give our young people access to the tools and resources they need to enter life after high school feeling fully prepared, culturally grounded, and confident.

 

Through YBS Kids, I lead the way in life skills development, cultural enrichment, and college and career readiness. I believe that when we invest in our youth, we aren't just helping them succeed—we are building the next generation of community leaders.

 

As a parent or young adult, have you ever said, "I wish I had known this," or "I wish I had been exposed to that"? That exact thought is what drives me to develop programs and initiatives for our young people and their families. At YBS Kids, we are no longer assuming that kids or parents already have the answers; we are here to support them so they can know more and do more. 

 

I truly believe that when we invest in our young people, we strengthen the very fabric of every community. For me, giving back isn't just work; it’s a lifetime commitment.