Manatee Community Foundation’s Changemakers Collective is an eight-month program that equips minority nonprofit leaders to lead with clarity and impact. Participants sharpen their approach through hands-on training, one-on-one mentorship, and real-world collaboration. Meet the inspiring individuals moving our community forward.

When Jasmin Graham joined the Changemakers Collective, she was already leading a movement.

As co-founder of Minorities in Shark Sciences (MISS), Jasmin is working to change the face of marine research by expanding opportunities for gender minorities of color, a group that has historically been excluded from the field. She is also a marine biologist specializing in elasmobranch ecology and holds degrees in marine biology, biological science, and Spanish. Most recently, she published her first book, Sharks Don’t Sink.

Jasmin and three other Black and mixed-race women founded MISS in 2020, because they understood firsthand how isolating the field of shark science could be. In classrooms, labs, and research programs, they were often the only women of color in the room. Rather than accept that reality, they decided to change it, for themselves and for those coming after them.

MISS now offers fully funded fellowships, hands-on workshops, youth camps, mentorship, and conference travel awards to support aspiring marine scientists. The organization reaches students and adults of all ages and focuses on making marine science more inclusive, more visible, and more accessible.

“Children need role models to believe they can do anything,” the founders wrote. “Having a role model who looks like them only enhances their desire to pursue their goals.”

When Jasmin joined the Changemakers Collective, she found something she hadn’t realized she needed: space to step back, connect with fellow leaders, and reflect on how she’s growing alongside the organization she helped build.

“Connecting with other nonprofit leaders who are just as passionate about making a difference has been incredibly meaningful,” she said.

The Collective gave her time to think about how to lead more intentionally, both within MISS and across the broader community of scientists and supporters she’s helping to grow.

“I’m excited to take what I’ve learned and put it into action so we can build a better future for the next generation,” Jasmin said.

Through her leadership at MISS and her growth in the Changemakers Collective, Jasmin continues to shape a more inclusive world where leadership reflects the communities it serves.

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Step Into Your Power as a Changemaker
Every great movement begins with bold leaders who are willing to invest in their growth and community. The Changemakers Collective offers mentorship, training, and connections designed to help minority nonprofit leaders thrive. If this sounds like you, we invite you to share your interest by completing our interest survey.