Meet Our Board of Directors
The Visionaries Guiding Our Mission
At Chicago Emerging Stars, we believe strong leadership is rooted in lived experience, empathy, and a deep belief in the potential of young people. Our Board of Directors is made up of individuals who carry that responsibility with intention. United by a shared passion for youth and community, each member brings unique strengths, perspectives, and a real commitment to helping young people across Chicago grow and thrive.
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Together, they guide our organization with integrity, vision, and accountability ensuring everything we do stays aligned with our mission and grounded in the communities we serve.
Jaqueza Thomas
Founder, President & CEO
Jaqueza Thomas is a youth advocate, community leader, and the Founder and CEO of Chicago Emerging Stars. Raised on the South Side of Chicago, his leadership is rooted in lived experience and a deep belief that young people should never have to wait to be seen, supported, or invested in. What started as a self-funded back-to-school event at 18 years old has grown into a movement serving thousands of youth and families across the city.
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Today, Jaqueza leads with vision, authenticity, and purpose guiding mentorship, leadership development, and community initiatives that help young people discover who they are and what they’re capable of becoming. As a political science student at the University of Illinois Chicago and an elected Chicago Public Schools Local School Council member, he continues to advocate for youth both in community spaces and at the systems level.
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As Founder and CEO, Jaqueza sets the direction of the organization and ensures that every decision reflects the mission, the community, and the young people at the center of the work.
Michael Tate
Chief Operating Officer
Michael Tate brings decades of leadership in public safety and community engagement, with a career focused on strengthening neighborhoods and building trust across Chicago. His experience leading teams, managing operations, and supporting violence reduction efforts has shaped his ability to navigate complex challenges with structure and care.
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As Chief Operating Officer, Michael ensures that Chicago Emerging Stars operates with discipline, strategy, and long-term sustainability. He plays a critical role in guiding daily operations, strengthening internal systems, and making sure the organization continues to grow in a way that is both effective and accountable to the community.
Christian Bivens
Board Secretary
Christian Bivens is a student leader and emerging professional with a strong foundation in leadership, organization, and service. As a business management and real estate student at the University of Illinois Chicago, he has built a reputation for leading with purpose and creating opportunities for others to grow.
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As Board Secretary, Christian plays a key role in maintaining structure, communication, and accountability across the organization. His attention to detail, strategic mindset, and commitment to excellence help ensure that the board operates effectively and stays aligned with its goals.
Naquida Thompson
Board Treasurer
Naquida Thompson is a dedicated public servant with a strong commitment to community and accountability. Her professional background in public safety, combined with her education in criminal law and justice, has equipped her with the discipline and integrity needed to serve in leadership.
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As Board Treasurer, Naquida is responsible for overseeing the organization’s financial health and sustainability. She ensures that resources are managed responsibly, transparently, and in a way that allows Chicago Emerging Stars to continue serving youth and families with consistency and care.
Zion Ferguson
Youth Chairman
Zion Ferguson is a young leader who brings lived experience, discipline, and a deep commitment to service. As a college student studying Information Technology and someone actively engaged in community safety and mentorship initiatives, he understands both the challenges and opportunities facing young people in Chicago.
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As Youth Chairman, Zion represents the voice of the next generation within the organization. He ensures that youth perspectives are not only included, but prioritized in decision-making. His role helps keep Chicago Emerging Stars grounded in real experiences, real needs, and real impact.
Camari Brown
Assistant Youth Chairman
Camari Brown is an emerging leader from the West Side of Chicago and a student at the University of Illinois Chicago studying Business Entrepreneurship. He is actively involved in his campus and community, with a growing commitment to leadership, service, and personal development.
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As Assistant Youth Chairman, Camari supports youth engagement efforts and helps strengthen the connection between the organization and the young people it serves. His voice, perspective, and willingness to grow play an important role in ensuring that youth feel seen, heard, and represented.
Interested in Joining Our Mission?
At Chicago Emerging Stars, leadership isn’t about titles, it's about heart, commitment, and the willingness to show up for the next generation. If you’re passionate about youth empowerment, community transformation, and being part of something bigger than yourself, we’d love to connect with you.
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Whether you want to learn more about our board, explore collaboration, or inquire about future opportunities to serve, we welcome leaders from all walks of life who share our mission.
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Let’s shape the future together one star at a time.