Stan Arola-Johnson’s childhood experiences in the inner city of Cleveland -- including waking up one morning to his community’s black-owned businesses having been burnt to the ground --shaped his commitment to social justice. Walking his neighborhood streets with Louis Stokes, Jesse Jackson, and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. served to strengthen that commitment in both his professional and volunteer work environments. Working 25 years in telecommunications leadership roles, he advocated for the advancement of Black and LGBTQIA++ individuals, resulting in his serving as AT&T’s first-ever Diversity Specialist of their residential consumer sales and service department. After more than two decades in the telecommunications industry, Stan followed his heart, purpose, and untiring passion for unity and justice with the creation of the nonprofit We Are You Campaign whose mission statement is: “We unite the Black African Diaspora LGBTQIA+ community and share our stories of oneness with all. Through education, advocacy, and shared resources, we aim to create a more inclusive and supportive environment where all members of society can thrive with the Black African Diaspora LGBTQIA+ community being recognized, valued, and championed.” Stan has served on several Boards, including The Greater Phoenix Urban League, Valley of the Sun United Way, and one-n-ten. Stan’s motto is Love, Empower, and Live Authentically. He is expected to receive his master’s degree by 2027.