About us

Her Story in Action

A dynamic group of women building Sisters of Economic Action from the ground up — empowering women of color, fostering economic growth and creating impactful change in our communities.

Our staff and board

The women behind SEA

Belle A. Espinal

Executive Director & President

An economic development professional, founder and advocate for community empowerment. Belle holds an M.A. in TESOL from Teachers College, Columbia University and a B.A. in Comparative American Studies from Oberlin College, with an Executive MBA from Cleveland State University. She founded Consult Espinal and Sisters of Economic Action, and has held roles with Cleveland Neighborhood Progress, the City of Cleveland and Future Heights. A bilingual mentor with CollegeNow, she leverages expertise in real estate development and digital tools to drive lasting change.

LarKesha Burns

Vice President

A community development strategist and nonprofit leader advancing economic and environmental justice. She is Director of Grants Management, Research and Development at Environmental Health Watch, and Founder and CEO of MISSION:CONNECT, a consulting and coaching platform helping entrepreneurs and nonprofits strengthen strategy, build partnerships and access funding. LarKesha holds a B.S. in Business Management from Case Western Reserve University.

Natika Anderson

Secretary

A community leader and banking professional serving as PNC's Community Development Officer and VP for the Northern Ohio market. Natika serves on the boards of PANN Inc. Tutorial Service, The Way, the Truth, and the Life Ministries, and Sisters of Economic Action.

Kishia Townsend

Treasurer

More than ten years in sales, marketing, real estate and small business growth. A strategic thinker and advocate for women's advancement, Kishia delivers creative marketing solutions that help small businesses scale — and uses her platforms to uplift women through confidence and authenticity.

Destiny Doan

Communications Manager

A student at Oberlin College with a passion for service and community engagement. Destiny is a Bonner and STRONG Scholar, a social media content creator, and a volunteer with Reflection Point, committed to uplifting underrepresented communities.

Who we are

Our history

Sisters of Economic Action was born out of a shared experience of resilience and a vision for equity. The idea emerged during a pivotal moment when several prominent women of color leaders faced unjust terminations, the organization's eventual executive director endured being overlooked for key opportunities, and peers across sectors shared stories of being underpaid and overworked.

Recognizing a pattern of systemic inequities, these women came together to transform frustration into action. They envisioned a space where women of color could thrive economically and professionally without the constant barriers imposed by inequitable systems. Through collective determination, Sisters of Economic Action was founded as a platform for advocacy, empowerment and opportunity.

Today we continue to fight for change, driven by the belief that our communities deserve better — and that we have the power to build it together.