Board of Directors

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Craig Cooper

Co-Founder

Craig Cooper is the Founder and CEO of UpliftUS Collective, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering youth, families, and communities through mental wellness, education, and meaningful connection. With 15 years of experience in the K–12 education system and 5 years in the nonprofit sector, Craig is a youth development specialist, martial artist, author, speaker, and podcast host who has positively impacted more than 2,000 youth and families throughout the Washington, D.C. region.

Through UpliftUS Collective, Craig leads community circles, workshops, and transformative experiences that inspire healing, resilience, and personal growth. He also co-hosts the UpliftUS Podcast with his wife, Tanzania Cooper, where they share authentic conversations on mental health, purpose, and relationships. Craig's mission is to help others transform pain into purpose and become the best version of themselves.

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Tanzania Cooper

Co-Founder

Tanzania Cooper is the Founder and CEO of UnLock'N Your Freedom Consulting and Co-Founder of UpliftUS Collective. With 14 years of experience in the nonprofit sector and a career in higher education, she is passionate about empowering individuals, organizations, and communities through leadership development, mental wellness, and success coaching. She is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Higher Education Leadership and Policy Studies at Howard University. 

A speaker, author, podcast host, and consultant, Tanzania has impacted more than 7,000 youth, families, and professionals through coaching, training, workshops, and community initiatives. Her mission is to help others discover their purpose, overcome barriers, and lead meaningful, fulfilling lives.

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Antashé Howard

Treasurer

Antashé Howard is an Associate Wealth Advisor at Nubian Square Investment Advisors who is passionate about helping individuals build financial freedom, security, and generational wealth through education and empowerment. A Detroit native and graduate of Howard University with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance, Antashé has dedicated her career to serving others through leadership and community engagement. A lifelong advocate for youth and civic involvement, she previously served two terms on the NAACP National Board of Directors as the Region III Youth Board Member and has held multiple leadership roles within the NAACP. Guided by the values of compassion, community, and service, Antashé is committed to helping others create brighter financial futures.

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Secretary & Social Media Manager

Janeá Watson

Janeá Watson brings over 15 years of administrative expertise to her role as Secretary and Social Media Manager for UpliftUS, where she supports the organization’s mission with precision, dedication, and a strong sense of community. She currently serves as an Administrative Assistant for Alexandria City Public Schools. In addition to her work in education and community service, Janeá is the founder of Eaugasm, a luxury fragrance brand, and a freelance graphic designer, combining creativity and business acumen to build powerful visual and sensory experiences.

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Board Member

Leon Horton

Leon Horton Jr. is a mental health advocate, speaker, and corporate healthcare leader with more than 20 years of leadership experience. As a suicide survivor, he uses his lived experience to inspire hope, resilience, and healing while working to break the stigma surrounding mental health. Leon is the founder of Man U Got This, an organization dedicated to creating safe spaces for men through peace circles, educational programming, and honest conversations about mental wellness. Through advocacy, community partnerships, and public speaking, he empowers others to seek support, embrace healing, and know they are never alone.

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Board Member

Dexter Johnson Jr.

Dexter Johnson Jr. is a proud father, transportation professional, and living example that your past does not have to define your future. With 19 years of experience in transportation, including 12 years in management, he has dedicated his career to serving others and leading with integrity. His greatest transformation, however, has been personal. Through faith, perseverance, and God's grace, he has overcome challenges, embraced growth, and discovered a renewed sense of purpose. He is passionate about sharing his story so others know that healing is possible, second chances are real, and it is never too late to become the person God created you to be.