Who We Are

I-Ra Abubaker, Youth Organizer

I-Ra is a native Washingtonian, a lifelong resident of Ward 4 and a community organizer. They recently graduated from the University of the District of Columbia with a BA in Political Science. Her work consistently builds upon the following beliefs and values: personal integrity, every person should have the resources to fulfill their highest level of human potential, and those most impacted by an issue should participate in making decisions about those issues. I-Ra has held many roles at Critical Exposure - they participated in one of CE’s school-based programs, participated in multiple campaigns as a fellow, and was placed with CE through the Public Allies DC program. She is excited to bring her skills and talents to the role of Youth Organizer. I-Ra believes that by providing young people with the tools to become change agents in their own lives and communities, we equip future leaders to build a better democracy.

Nicole Newman, Executive Director

A writer, passionate advocate, and nonprofit professional, Nicole learned how to organize from her aunt and grandparents who, at an early age, exposed her to collective action by those most impacted demanding equity. She was taught by her mother to ask as many questions as satisfied her curiosity. A fourth-generation Washingtonian, she graduated from Trinity University with a Bachelor's in Political Science and her Master's in Organizational Development from American University, both in Washington, DC. She has spent her career focused on creating more equitable, people-focused organizations through training and conversation around racial equity and inclusion; community organizing and client engagement; advocacy; strategic growth and planning; and navigating change and conflict. Most recently, she was the Senior Director of Community Relations at the DC Public Charter School Board, where she managed public engagement on behalf of the board. She likes traveling, sunflowers, unicorns, the enneagram, and being in nature.

Nicole will be on extended leave through Summer 2023. 

Felicia Ramos, Acting Co-Executive Director

Felicia hails from Chicago with an extensive background in advocacy, youth development, and program design. Felicia’s experience working within Chicago’s school and housing systems, as well as for non-profit agencies here in DC has expanded her capacity to support and empower marginalized young people. Through her work in Chicago’s nonprofit field, Felicia revamped and facilitated teen dating violence prevention workshops and forums for over 1,000 high school students. As the Program Director for the Chicago Public Schools’ (CPS) Groundbreakers, she had the unique opportunity to partner with 30 high school students to plan and build over 30 new playgrounds each year. During her most recent tenure as the Academy Director for a hip-hop and arts education non-profit here in DC, Felicia developed a visual arts apprenticeship program, systems for outreach and enrollment of young artists, and established effective working relationships with local professional artists, educators and school-based staff.