LaJoya Johnson

LaJoya Johnson is a nonprofit executive, public health advocate, and community strategist dedicated to advancing equity, wellness, and leadership for Black lesbian adults. As the Founder and Executive Director of Black Educated Lesbians (BEL), she leads a growing national organization committed to building culturally responsive infrastructure rooted in collective care, economic empowerment, and generational impact.

Her journey into activism began in 2003 following the tragic murder of Sakia Gunn, a 15-year-old Black lesbian whose death exposed the violence and invisibility faced by LGBTQ youth of color. While a student at Michigan State University, LaJoya organized a campus-wide candlelight vigil honoring LGBTQ+ People of Color impacted by hate crimes and led an international online petition advocating for Sakia’s recognition at her high school—ultimately resulting in a formal moment of silence in her honor. In 2004, she was awarded the Colin Higgins Courage Award in recognition of her leadership and commitment to justice.

LaJoya graduated from Michigan State University in 2006 with a degree in Interdisciplinary Studies and has since dedicated her career to navigating and transforming systems that impact marginalized communities. Her professional experience within healthcare and behavioral health systems deepened her understanding of structural inequities—particularly those affecting Black LGBTQ+ individuals seeking affirming care.

In 2014, LaJoya founded Black Educated Lesbians (BEL), originally as an online community designed to foster connection among professional Black lesbians. Under her leadership, BEL has evolved into a 501(c)(3) nonprofit serving a global network of more than 5,000 members across 20+ chapters. The organization now operates across five core program areas: health equity, economic empowerment, leadership development, holistic wellness, and youth mentorship.

Through signature initiatives such as community health fairs, wellness workshops, leadership conferences, mentorship programs, and research-driven advocacy efforts, LaJoya has built sustainable programming that centers visibility, dignity, and access. Her work bridges grassroots organizing with structured nonprofit infrastructure—ensuring that Black lesbians are not only connected socially, but supported strategically.

LaJoya remains deeply committed to cultivating safe, affirming spaces where Black lesbians can heal, lead, and build legacy. Her leadership reflects a belief that community is both a refuge and a force for systemic change. Through intentional programming and collective power, she continues to shape a future where Black lesbians are fully resourced, deeply connected, and boldly leading across every space they occupy.