Science, Engineering and Mathematics Link Inc (SEM Link) is an Atlanta-based nonprofit organization that was founded in 2005 by Ms. Tokiwa T. Smith on the premise that exposure to the STEM community is critical to K-12 students pursuing STEM careers. Hence, the organization being named SEM Link, because the essence of our work is connecting youth to the STEM community to provide them with positive adult role models in STEM.
Our programs and events increase students’ awareness of STEM careers and encourage their participation in STEM Research through digital learning and hands-on activities. Since the organization’s inception, through our programs and events over 500 STEM professionals have exposed over 15,000 youth to over 50 different STEM career pathways as well as supported hundreds of young STEM Research trainees.
A chemical engineer by training, Ms. Smith founded SEM Link in 2005 so that students at one Atlanta middle school could believe it was possible to pursue STEM careers through exposure and engagement. For two decades, Ms. Smith has provided volunteer opportunities for the STEM community to share their passion and expertise to inspire the next generation of STEM professionals.
Ms. Tokiwa T. Smith is an Author, Social Impact Consultant, Nonprofit Executive and Speaker; having a 20+ year career and cross-sector experience in academia, government, and nonprofit. An alumna of Florida A & M University, she has worked for organizations such as Atlanta Public Schools, California State University East Bay, Georgia State University, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory and Spelman College. Ms. Smith is the Founder and Executive Director of Science, Engineering and Mathematics Link Inc., also known as SEM Link, a STEM Education nonprofit organization. She is also the Principal of Tokiwa T. Smith Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that serves clients in academia, corporate, government and the social impact sector and Founder of the Sista Nonprofit Network, an online community for Black women who work in the social impact and social investing sectors.
Ms. Smith is a leader in STEM Education, Nonprofit and Philanthropy, serving on the advisory boards and committees of several organizations. Her work has been featured in several media outlets including Atlanta Magazine, Candid, CW Atlanta, Ebony Magazine, National Public Radio (NPR), Scientific American, Saporta Report, US Black Engineer, and Voyage Atlanta. A sought out contributor for books, magazine articles and other publications also haven written her own books, I Can Rest and Be Excellent: A Guide for Black Women to Prioritize their Well-Being While Striving for Success, Experimental Design Process: A Guide for High School Students to Conduct Research Like A Research Scientist and A Guide to Hosting STEM Events. Ms. Smith's leadership in STEM workforce development, equity focused initiatives and the nonprofit sector has earned her recognition, including in local and national awards and honors.
Charlena Young serves with the US Department of Transportation and brings deep expertise in organizational leadership and strategy to the SEM Link board.
MaKayla Mitchell is a plant scientist with the Georgia Department of Agriculture, passionate about connecting youth to careers in agricultural and plant sciences.
Edwina is a dedicated community leader, connector, and advocate with a strong background in healthcare administration and community engagement. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Health Science from and a Master of Public Health Administration.
With extensive experience in healthcare, health education, and community engagement, Edwina is passionate about advancing equitable access to resources and empowering individuals through education and advocacy. She currently serves as the incoming President-Elect of the Junior League of Douglas County and works closely with Pillars Initiative, where she continues to lead impactful initiatives that strengthen and uplift the community.
As a project management professional and consultant, Edwina brings strategic insight, collaboration, and a results-driven approach to every endeavor. Outside of her professional and civic commitments, she is a proud mother of two and enjoys traveling and creating meaningful memories with her family.
Shea Johnson is a seasoned leader with over 27 years of federal service at HUD and EPA, where she advanced initiatives in affordable housing, environmental protection, community development, and climate resilience. Earlier this year, she transitioned from her role as HUD’s Georgia Field Office Director to co-found Pivotal AI Consulting, a firm that helps organizations leverage AI and strategic innovation to strengthen impact in housing, environmental cleanup, workforce development, and community engagement. In addition, she is pleased to be a part of Aevolve Green Solutions (AGS), which is committed to building sustainable communities by providing affordable housing and supportive services to end homelessness.
Shea brings extensive experience in environmental justice and sustainability from her time at EPA, where she managed complex Superfund cleanups and led programs promoting renewable energy on contaminated lands. She is a motivational speaker who is fueled by lifelong learning and passionate about helping women step confidently into their potential.
Beyond her professional career, Shea is committed to youth leadership and STEM education, serving with the Buckhead Atlanta Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc., and as a returning board member of Science Engineering and Mathematics Link. She holds an M.S. in Agricultural and Environmental Chemistry from UC Berkeley and a B.S. in Chemistry from Spelman College. She is married and has a teenage daughter and an adult bonus son.