Our Team
Brandon Robinson
Executive Director
As the Founder of Juvenile Delinquency Prevention Initiative, Brandon has a bachelor’s degree in Organizational Development and Leadership from College Unbound where he currently works as one of their professors. He has a master’s degree in Public Administration and certification in Public Management from Roger Williams University and he is currently pursuing his PsyD Doctorates in Leadership Psychology with a concentration in Non-Profit and NGO Management from William James College. He is committed to making a difference in the lives of young males and females in the inner city. As a youth who experienced the lack of support and a mentor to guide him in his youth, his passion for prevention and intervention has helped many young men and women avoid delinquency like he experienced and live productive lives.
Michael Shepard
Board Vice Chairperson
Michael Shepard is the Vice Chairperson for JDPI. With his extensive experience in working with youth, Michael is responsible for running the program, interacting with youth, and maintaining consistent and strong guidance for all participants. His unwavering dedication to the cause has made him an invaluable asset to the organization.
Ashlie Tabella
Board Secretary
Milou Rodrigues
Board Treasurer
Shawndell Burney-Speaks
Kaiya Letherer
Growing up as a child of color in a predominantly white community presented its challenges, but also opportunities for growth and learning. I had to navigate through different cultural experiences and expectations, which shaped my understanding of diversity and resilience. I used those experiences to foster a sense of identity, pride and unique perspective that has influenced who I am today.
Growing up in a troubled environment has fueled my passion for helping others in the community. I believe that by working together and putting in the effort, we can overcome any challenges and make a positive impact in the lives of those around us.
Working with Juvenile Delinquency Prevention Initiative - JDPI has given me a sense of accomplishment and opportunities for growth by being a positive influence in the South Side of Providence. Being a role model for our youth has motivated me to continue making a difference and inspiring those around me to reach their full potential
Milou Rodrigues was born, raised, and rooted in Providence, I embodies a lifelong commitment to my community. A proud Central High School alumna, I have dedicated over 33 years to the Providence Public School Department, tirelessly guiding and enriching the lives of students and families in the city she loves.
Beyond the classroom, I have built an impeccable reputation as the most trustworthy cashier in Providence, working at the city’s busiest nightclubs and events. On evenings you can often find me working at a local women’s shelter, where I offer a helping hand and a compassionate heart, and few nights a week I work at College Unbound as the Childcare Coordinator. I love the busyness that I continue to stay.
Proudly 100% Cape Verdean, I am the second youngest of 12 siblings. I stands as the matriarch of her large family, ensuring that they remain close-knit and connected. After raising a son and daughter, I now take immense pride in my role as “Mema” to three grandsons—Jabari, Jordan, and DJ—two of whom attend Bishop Hendricken and one at Bishop McVinney.
When I’m not dedicating my time to others, I enjoy traveling, socializing, and making cherished memories with loved ones. My greatest accomplishment is Becoming the inspiring woman I am today—a beacon of strength, resilience, and love in my community.
Looking ahead,I remain steadfast in my mission to uplift and empower those around me, and continuing my legacy of support and encouragement for future generations.
Shawndell Burney-Speaks was born a Native of Providence, RI. She’s a wife & mother of 2 children. Shawndell served as the first Black female Sr. Advisor to former Mayor Jorge O. Elorza in the City of Providence from 2020-2022. She also served as the ED of the African American Ambassador group that brings about social justice reform and change. Shawndell served as the Chair of Religious Affairs for the NAACP Providence Branch from 2023-2024.
Shawndell is a Certified Relationship Coach, mentor, and creator of S.Burney-Speaks LLC., where she provides coaching services for individuals and groups. Through her life experiences, Shawndell understands the daily struggles of those in her community. Shawndell is passionate about Coaching and public speaking and has been invited to speak on large and intimate platforms. She was a featured speaker at TEDx Prov 2017.
Shawndell obtained her B.A. in Organizational Leadership and Change from the College Unbound class of 2022, where she was also honored with the Fighting for Justice award in honor of the late Honorable Judge William C. Clifton.
Shawndell has received multiple lifetime achievement awards, the NAACP Rosa Parks Award, and has been inducted into the City of Providence’s Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Hall of Fame, as well as received the Civility Imprint award from I Change Nations.
Kaiya Letherer is currently in her final semester of law school at Roger Williams University School of Law. While a law student, Kaiya interned for the Rhode Island Public Defender in the adult trial and appellate divisions. She also worked in the Prisoners’ Rights Clinic as a student attorney representing incarcerated people in civil rights cases.
Prior to law school, Kaiya worked extensively as an educator in prisons across the East Coast. Her expertise lies in developing personalized and project-based curriculum for currently incarcerated adults. In addition to teaching, Kaiya was responsible for the overall program management of Higher Ed in Prison programs as well as tutoring programs across the Northeast for incarcerated adults and children. She also worked in nonprofit management focusing on organizational culture and equity. Kaiya earned her Masters of Education from Merrimack College in Massachusetts.