Our Founder

The reason behind the cause.

Meet Our Founder

Jowharah Sanders

Founder & Executive Director, National Voices for Equality, Education, and Enlightenment (NVEEE)

Jowharah Sanders is a nationally recognized advocate, nonprofit executive, and changemaker with nearly two decades of experience championing youth, families, and communities. As the founder of National Voices for Equality, Education, and Enlightenment (NVEEE), she has dedicated her life to preventing bullying, suicide, and school violence by empowering individuals to find their voice, advocate for themselves, and create meaningful change.

A survivor of multiple traumas—including bullying, racism, domestic violence, and suicidal ideation—Jowharah’s advocacy is deeply personal. In 2009, she transformed her pain into purpose by founding NVEEE to ensure that no young person or family feels alone in their struggles. Since then, NVEEE has impacted over 30,000 youth and families through mentoring, leadership development, and direct service programs.

While bullying prevention remains central to her work, Jowharah’s advocacy spans a wide range of causes, including domestic violence, gun violence, mental health, suicide prevention, LGBTQIA+ equality, women’s rights, social justice, and immigrant support. Her leadership is grounded in the belief that addressing the root causes of inequity and empowering bystanders to take action are critical to building safer, more compassionate communities.

Jowharah’s ability to connect with individuals on a personal level has made her a trusted mentor and a powerful advocate for systemic change. She works tirelessly to create environments where young people and their families feel supported and empowered to overcome challenges and thrive.

Awards & Achievements

Jowharah’s commitment to creating positive change has earned her numerous accolades, including:

2024 NFL & Miami Dolphins Changemaker Award

2020 Paving the Road to Equality - Gold Medal Award

2020 African-American Achievers Nominee

2019 SAVE Luminary Award

2018 100 Outstanding Women Award – Boys & Girls Club of Broward County

2016 Legends Award – Unity Coalition

2015 Top 100 LGBT Movers and Shakers

2015 Women In Excellence Award - Women In Network

2014 Community Award - Aqua Foundation for Women

2013 Ujima Leadership Award – Black Gay Pride South Florida

2013 Outstanding Leadership in the LGBT Community Award – Safe Schools South Florida

These awards reflect her transformative impact in areas ranging from youth leadership and mental health advocacy to social justice and inclusion.

Empowering Bystanders
to Act.

Jowharah believes that while bullying may never be completely eradicated, its impact can be reduced by empowering the largest group involved: the bystanders. Through NVEEE’s programs, she equips bystanders with the tools to take action and stand up for themselves and others.

At the heart of her work is the belief that everyone has a voice—it’s just a matter of learning how to use it. Whether leading the way when someone feels unsure or stepping aside to let them shine, Jowharah’s greatest joy comes from watching young people advocate for themselves and their peers. Her work transforms fear and isolation into strength and connection, creating a ripple effect of courage and compassion that spreads far beyond individual lives.

A Vision for the Future

Jowharah’s philosophy is simple yet profound: real change begins when individuals recognize their power to act. Her vision is not just about addressing today’s challenges but creating a legacy of leaders who will shape a brighter, more equitable future for generations to come.

Through NVEEE, Jowharah continues to inspire a movement—one where students stand together, parents and educators collaborate, and communities unite to foster resilience, connection, and empathy.

Take Action

Through her inspiring leadership, lived experiences, and unwavering dedication, Jowharah Sanders has become a powerful advocate for the next generation. Whether as a keynote speaker, mentor, or thought leader, Jowharah’s message is one of empowerment, resilience, and action.