Community Court Peer Navigator Manager

Akiana Smith is a native New Yorker and a natural-born activist. With a career spanning various roles, she has worked as a community organizer, educator, and facilitator of anger management groups for men returning from prison. Currently, she serves as the Community Court Manager at the Women's Community Justice Association, a non-profit dedicated to advocating for the rights of women in detention and campaigning for the closure of Rikers Island.

Akiana leverages her voice as a powerful tool to bring awareness to injustices. She earned her Bachelor's degree in Human Services and Community Justice, with a minor in counseling, from John Jay College of Criminal Justice and is on the path to completing her master's degree.

She is a proud mother of two empowered daughters, Aleyah and Lauryn, and is deeply committed to amplifying the voices of marginalized communities. Akiana is particularly passionate about advocating for women and Black communities. Her unwavering dedication fuels her ongoing fight for justice, and she remains steadfast in her pursuit of creating a more equitable and just society.

With a proven track record of success, Akiana brings both passion and experience to her advocacy efforts. She is a force to be reckoned with, dedicated to ensuring that every voice is heard and every individual has the opportunity to thrive.