The Empowerment Zone Collective is dedicated to empowering learners of all ages across the Metro Atlanta area — including neurodivergent learners — to excel in and access careers in STEAM. We create inclusive, transformative learning environments through immersive, hands-on experiences that ignite curiosity, foster creativity, and build critical thinking skills. Through innovative programs and community partnerships, we equip learners with the knowledge, confidence, and support they need to overcome barriers and lead as the next generation of innovators.
A world where every learner, regardless of age, background, or learning differences, has equal access to high-quality STEAM education and the opportunity to pursue fulfilling careers in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics. We envision communities where individuals are empowered to break barriers, innovate, and lead — contributing to a more diverse and inclusive workforce and a brighter, more equitable future.
Empowerment Zone Collective was founded in 2023 in Stonecrest, Georgia, with a simple belief: every person deserves access to the tools, knowledge, and support needed to build a better future. In our very first year of operation, we were awarded the VELA Education micro grant — launching four active robotics teams, two National Arts Honor Society chapters, and the Night of the Arts, an annual showcase that doubled in participation in its second year. We have provided STEM enrichment programming for hundreds of students across elementary, middle, and high school levels and are expanding into adult literacy with the launch of our PACT program in 2026. Our long-term vision includes an apprenticeship program that bridges education and industry — giving learners at every stage a real pathway forward.
Jessamyn Lockett
A.S. English Language & Literature, Georgia State University; B.S. Public Policy, Georgia Institute of Technology.
Shanna Smith
B.S. Electrical Engineering Technology, University of Alabama. More than 20 years of applied experience in literacy instruction, STEM education, and community program development. Board member, DeKalb Christian Home Educators, Georgia Black Home Educators, and Hugs and Hope Food Bank.
Tymirra Smith
B.S. Industrial Design and M.S. Human-Computer Interaction, Georgia Institute of Technology. Co-founder of Steminista, the highest-grossing company in Georgia Tech’s 2020 CREATE-X program.
Jaid Clough
Founder, Helios Learning Solutions LLC; B.S. candidate, Learning Design & Technology, Kennesaw State University.
Justin Taggart, MBA
BBA Marketing, University of Alabama; award-winning medical device sales leader and former Senior Learning & Development Specialist at Mölnlycke.
