Board of Directors
Maya Riley
- Executive Director
- Acting Secretary (Position Open)
Maya is a communications professional, entrepreneur, and community builder dedicated to creating meaningful change. Growing up in a community with limited resources taught her to think creatively, solve problems, and build strong connection skills that now fuel her work helping others overcome challenges and discover new opportunities.
Maya holds a degree in Communications with a concentration in Public Relations and a Master’s in Business Administration. Throughout her career, she has cultivated strong relationships with business leaders and professionals who believe in using their expertise to uplift others. These partnerships now help guide students as they explore career paths and develop real-world skills through mentorship and exposure.
As the founder of SOA SERVE, a nonprofit organization committed to bridging gaps between resources, information, and at-risk youth, Maya is passionate about creating access and opportunity, particularly for families in ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) households who work hard yet still struggle to meet basic needs.
Her professional involvement with the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) and BNI COVA Connections has strengthened her ability to connect people, stories, and solutions that make a lasting impact.
She finds inspiration in creativity and growth. Gardening, crafting, and DIY projects fuel her imagination and reflect her belief that with the right care and attention, both people and communities can thrive.
Essence Turner
- President
- Director of Student Success
Essence is a proud Hampton Roads native, passionate about helping others find hope, healing, and purpose. A graduate of Radford University with a Master’s in Social Work and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), she embodies the true spirit of service, compassion, and resilience that defines the social work profession.
Guided by a belief that every person deserves to be seen, heard, and supported, she approaches her work with empathy and creativity. Whether mentoring youth, supporting families, or helping individuals navigate life’s challenges, she strives to create meaningful change, one connection at a time.
An adventurer at heart, she draws inspiration from nature, travel, and exploration, seeing every journey as an opportunity for growth and renewal. Her love for décor, road trips, and chasing waterfalls mirrors her philosophy that healing and discovery are lifelong pursuits.
At her core, she believes that joy and learning go hand in hand. Her playful, optimistic spirit reminds others that growth can be fun, and that even small moments of encouragement can spark lasting transformation. Above all, she is dedicated to empowering others to recognize their strength, embrace their stories, and build the future they deserve.
Jahlil Young
- Vice President
- Treasurer
Jahlil is a passionate advocate for education, leadership, and achievement. A proud graduate of J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College, where he earned his Associate Degree in Social Science summa cum laude, and the University of Virginia, where he graduated with distinction with a Bachelor of Arts in Politics, Jahlil has always been driven by a deep commitment to excellence and service.
Currently pursuing his law degree at Georgetown University, Jahlil’s ambition is rooted in a desire to create meaningful change through justice and advocacy. His dedication to learning and his determination to uplift others serve as the foundation of his personal and professional journey.
Beyond academics, Jahlil embraces a balanced and vibrant life. He values fitness and wellness, enjoys anime for its storytelling and creativity, and loves traveling to explore new cultures and cuisines. His adventurous spirit fuels his curiosity and shapes his open-minded approach to life and leadership.
As the oldest of seven siblings, Jahlil has developed a strong sense of responsibility, empathy, and mentorship, qualities he carries into every endeavor. His study abroad experience in Valencia, Spain further deepened his appreciation for cultural diversity and global perspectives.
Jahlil believes every experience, whether academic, personal, or professional, contributes to growth and purpose. With a heart for guiding others, he is dedicated to inspiring the next generation of leaders to pursue their goals with courage, integrity, and perseverance.
SOA SERVE 