From AmeriCorps to Black Lives Matter: How Cicley Gay’s Visionary Leadership is Transforming Social Justice Initiatives
Committed to advocating for the lives of those in underinvested communities, Cicley Gay has spent over two decades as a transformative leader in nonprofit and philanthropic organizations. Her career has been marked by a steadfast dedication to empowering marginalized communities and driving systemic change through education, mentorship, and advocacy.
As the founder of The Amplifiers, a pioneering social enterprise operating at the intersection of cause and communications, Cicley has successfully elevated underrepresented voices and causes on national and global stages. Now serving as the Chairwoman of the Board for Black Lives Matter, she brings her wealth of expertise and visionary leadership to one of the most influential social justice organizations in the world.
Cicley’s journey of civic service began with two terms in AmeriCorps, where her commitment to service first took root. She later became the founding director of STAND (Students Take Action for New Directions), an initiative that empowered students by educating them on the profound impact of federal budget allocations on under-resourced communities. This early work laid the foundation for her lifelong mission of educating and uplifting under-resourced populations.
Her dedication to social impact shone brightly during her decade-long tenure at The Women’s Sports Foundation. As the founding director of GoGirlGo! and later as the National Director of Education and Alliances, Cicley spearheaded nationwide programs to expand access to physical activity for young women in under-resourced communities. Her leadership not only amplified awareness of equity gaps in sports but also created tangible opportunities for thousands of girls across the country.
Continuing her mission of mentorship and empowerment, Cicley served as the Director of National Initiatives at the National CARES Mentoring Movement. There, she played a pivotal role in establishing a multi-million-dollar national mentoring program endorsed by the U.S. Department of Juvenile Justice, positively impacting countless children and their families. Her efforts reinforced the importance of mentorship as a pathway to a brighter future for youth facing systemic barriers.
Cicley Gay’s exceptional contributions have not gone unnoticed. Her accolades include the President’s Volunteer Service Award from the Obama Administration and the Catalyst Award from the Global Center for Social Change through Women’s Leadership. She has also been recognized as part of the inaugural class of the Women’s Entrepreneurship Initiative (WEI) and celebrated as one of Georgia’s 40 Under 40. In 2024, she was named one of ATL+’s Most Powerful Women in Atlanta, a testament to her enduring influence and leadership. Her entrepreneurial achievements were further highlighted when she received the SPANX Red Backpack Grant for Women’s Entrepreneurship.
Despite her long list of professional achievements, Cicley remains most proud of her role as a mother to her three sons, a title she lovingly describes as her “greatest accomplishment.” Winning the title of “Mom of the Year” holds deep personal significance to her, as she often reflects, “I spent decades intentionally preparing my sons for the world; I am now focused on also preparing the world for my sons.”
Through her work, Cicley Gay embodies the essence of service, resilience, and empowerment. Whether leading critical national initiatives, mentoring future leaders, or amplifying voices for justice, her legacy is one of transformative impact. As a leader, advocate, and mother, Cicley continues to inspire and create a world where equity, opportunity, and justice prevail for all.
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