Leaders & Organizations Making a Difference on Back2Besa
This week on Back2Besa, the focus is on the people who don’t just talk about change — they show up for it every single day. From recovery spaces and women-led organizations to youth mentorship, men’s wellness, and community-led education, this episode is a reminder that real impact often starts at the local level, with people who are deeply rooted in the communities they serve.
We’re traveling across the region to highlight leaders and organizations who are building healing, stability, and opportunity — not for headlines, but because the work needs to be done.
Cherry Hall: A Lifeline in the Central District
We start the show in Seattle’s Central District at Cherry Hall, a recovery sanctuary that has been supporting people for decades. Cherry Hall is more than a meeting space — it’s a place where people find consistency, accountability, and community during some of the hardest moments of their lives. For many, it’s where recovery becomes possible because they’re met with understanding instead of judgment. The impact of this space speaks for itself through the people who return day after day, not just to heal, but to help others do the same.
Dignity for Divas: Supporting Women With Care and Confidence
Next, we spend time with Dignity for Divas, led by Nikki Gane Butler, an organization dedicated to supporting women transitioning out of homelessness. Their work centers dignity, wellness, and long-term stability — not just temporary solutions. This episode takes viewers inside their new food pantry at the Dream Academy and highlights a powerful collaboration with Champions of Change, founded by Cliff Avril, Doug Baldwin, and Michael Bennett, with support from Safeway. It’s a powerful example of what happens when grassroots leadership and larger platforms come together with intention.
BENU at Africatown: Becoming a New You
We then head to Africatown Community Landtrust to spotlight BENU, a community home created for Black men who are disproportionately impacted by homelessness. BENU — which stands for Becoming a New You — is about far more than housing. It’s about rebuilding identity, restoring dignity, and reconnecting men to their purpose. Through culture, connection, and community support, BENU is showing what long-term, sustainable stability can look like when people are truly invested in one another.
Reclaiming the Village at Garfield High School
Inside Garfield High School, we attend the first-ever Reclaiming the Village Summit, a community-led gathering that brings families, educators, and students together for honest conversations about education, mental health, and student support. From feedback circles to breakout sessions, this summit creates space for Black families and students to share their experiences and work toward real solutions. It’s about rebuilding trust, strengthening partnerships, and reminding families that their voices belong in the building.
Panther Lake Elementary & The Black Equality Coalition
At Panther Lake Elementary, we see how the Black Equality Coalition is building a village through their Unstoppable Coaching Program. What began as an assembly turned into an ongoing mentorship experience rooted in affirmations, leadership, and creativity. Students are learning to see themselves as leaders, supported by educators, mentors, and community members like Seattle artist Mafi D, who helped students express themselves through music. It’s a powerful example of what happens when schools and community organizations work together.
Men Uplift at YOUniversal Fitness
We close the episode at YOUniversal Fitness, owned by Mike Ford, where the Men Uplift program blends physical fitness with mental health support. Twice a month, men come together for movement, therapist-led conversations, food, and fellowship. What started as a small garage workout during the pandemic has grown into a space for healing, vulnerability, and brotherhood. Men Uplift is redefining wellness by creating room for honest conversations and real connection.
Affirmation of the Week
The episode ends with an affirmation that ties it all together:
“My purpose is tied to my people. My greatness is defined by the community I serve. I am a leader right where I stand.”
This week’s show is a reminder that leadership doesn’t require a title — it requires showing up. And across this episode, we see exactly what that looks like.
If you’re looking for inspiration, community, or a reminder of how powerful collective care can be, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.
Back2Besa airs Saturdays at 10:30 PM on FOX 13 Seattle, and Sundays at 10 AM and 8 PM on FOX 13+. You can also stream anytime on the FOX Local app.
