You’re So Fly: Angela Huntley with NC EmpowerUp
Empowering Communities Through Literacy
NC EmpowerUp is on a mission to uplift individuals in underserved communities by providing educational programs, skill-building opportunities, and access to vital resources. At the helm of this initiative is the organization’s Founding Executive Director, Angela Huntley, a Winston-Salem native whose career journey has taken her from media to marketing and, ultimately, to her true passion—educaiton and development.
Angela’s background is in the marketing space. From television and radio to owning her own firm where she spent a decade helping clients tell their stories. However, she felt a deeper calling to make a more direct impact on the next generation. This passion for storytelling, combined with a concern over declining literacy rates, led to the creation of Early Scribes.
Early Scribes, a program under NC EmpowerUp, is designed to enhance literacy skills by teaching children the art of storytelling. Through a carefully crafted curriculum, participants develop their voices, work with illustrators to bring their stories to life, and ultimately publish their own books. This process not only strengthens their reading comprehension but also fosters a love for writing. Additionally, the program exposes them to career opportunities in creative industries and provides foundational entrepreneurship training, equipping them with the tools to market and sell their books. Looking ahead, the goal is to expand NC EmpowerUp’s reach to additional counties, broadening the variety of programs offered to meet community needs.
When reflecting on the challenges of entrepreneurship, she emphasizes the importance of finding a supportive community. “It’s easy to retreat when times get tough, but having a strong network inspires you to keep going. A solid community can provide guidance, support, and celebrate your wins alongside you.”
Her advice to aspiring entrepreneurs? “Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Utilize available resources and speak up for what you need. Entrepreneurship requires sacrifices, so make sure your work is something you are truly passionate about. If you’re unsure where to start, look around at your community—identify its needs and find ways to make a meaningful impact.”
Through programs like Early Scribes, NC EmpowerUp is not only improving literacy rates but also fostering creativity, confidence, and a sense of empowerment in young minds—one story at a time.
