Who We Are

Under the leadership of Executive Director Sectoria L. Madison, Pearls of Ubuntu (POU) stands as a beacon of opportunity for young entrepreneurs in North Lawndale, a historically disadvantaged community on Chicago’s West Side. As a 100% Black woman-owned, minority-led nonprofit, POU is dedicated to economic empowerment, education, and workforce development. With a mission to equip youth with essential business skills, hands-on trade experience, and a strong sense of purpose, POU is committed to breaking generational cycles of poverty and creating a pathway for economic empowerment.

In 2024, the program launched with just 25 students, each eager to build a future of self-sufficiency and success. This journey would not have been possible without the unwavering support of  Stone Temple Baptist Church, a historic landmark that once welcomed the words of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and now serves as a nurturing ground for the next generation of leaders. A special acknowledgment is given to Pastor Reshorna Fitzpatrick, whose mentorship and steadfast commitment to community development have been instrumental in shaping POU’s mission. Her wisdom and guidance continue to fuel the program’s growth, ensuring that North Lawndale’s youth receive the support and education they need to thrive.

Looking ahead, Pearls of Ubuntu is working to secure a dedicated facility to expand class offerings, increase student enrollment, and create employment opportunities for educators and trade professionals within North Lawndale. This expansion is more than just an initiative - it is a direct response to the challenges posed by a weakened school system and the urgent need to provide positive alternatives to gang violence and drug activity. By offering structured learning environments, mentorship, and career pathways, POU is actively intervening to disrupt cycles of crime and poverty before they take hold.

POU is redefining education by integrating entrepreneurship, STEM training, creative arts, and vocational skills into a student-centered curriculum. Utilizing a Montessori-style learning approach, the program fosters independence, critical thinking, and hands-on problem-solving, allowing students to explore their talents at their own pace. Through courses in business development, engineering, robotics, culinary arts, and digital media, students gain both the knowledge and practical experience needed to build sustainable careers.
Pearls of Ubuntu is more than a program - it is a movement dedicated to building a legacy of economic empowerment, generational wealth, and community revitalization. With continued support, POU will strengthen families, uplift neighborhoods, and ensure that the youth of North Lawndale have the tools and opportunities to shape a new future. Together, we are not just changing lives - we are transforming North Lawndale for generations to come.