Today we’d like to introduce you to Nikesha Straker.
Hi Nikesha, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My name is Nikesha, but I go by Niki. I’m an entrepreneur with many titles, running a transportation business and launching a nonprofit youth leadership organization that connects different roles with seniors in the community. I’m a wife, mother, writer, and poet. After working at the Library of Congress for 20 years, I took a leap of faith and “retired” early to pursue a new path for myself and my family. I’m proud of myself and grateful to my family and extended family for all the love and support throughout this journey.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
No, the road definitely hasn’t been smooth — and honestly, I think that’s what makes the journey meaningful. Here I am trying to merge my profit and non-profit into one; getting the seniors with the youth. There were moments early on when I questioned whether I was moving in the right direction. I had to learn how to balance ambition with patience, and confidence with humility. Some of the biggest challenges came from limited resources, unexpected setbacks, and the pressure of trying to build something while still figuring out my own voice.
There were times when opportunities fell through, when support was inconsistent, or when I simply felt overwhelmed. But each struggle forced me to grow — to get more organized, more resilient, and more intentional. Those experiences shaped the way I work today. They taught me how to pivot, how to advocate for myself, and how to keep going even when the path isn’t clear.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Be Better Together, Inc. empowers youth through leadership, empathy, and volunteer service while connecting them with older adults through community storytelling. The organization creates meaningful opportunities for young people to build confidence, develop practical skills, and lead with compassion. By bringing generations together to share lived experiences, preserve community wisdom, and form genuine friendships. Be Better Together, Inc. strengthens both individual growth and the social fabric of the community. Many young people need more opportunities to develop leadership skills, practice empathy, and engage in meaningful service that prepares them for life and work. At the same time, older adults often hold
valuable stories, local history, and wisdom that can be lost without intentional spaces for connection. Communities are strongest when generations learn from one another, yet these relationships do not always happen naturally without thoughtful programming and support.
Crystals Cardinal is a family-owned transportation provider specializing in safe, compassionate, and reliable non-emergency medical and senior mobility services. We support healthcare providers, senior communities, and individual clients with dependable door-to-door and door-through door transportation that enhances independence and access to care.
In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
Over the next decade, the youth‑development and community‑building space will undergo major transformation — and Be Better Together, Inc. is positioned right at the center of those shifts.
Youth programs are moving toward deeper leadership development, empathy‑building, and real‑world skill application. Young people need more than academic achievement; they need spaces to practice compassion, communication, and responsibility. Organizations that help youth build confidence through hands‑on service and meaningful relationships will become increasingly essential.
At the same time, communities are recognizing the urgency of preserving local history, cultural memory, and lived wisdom. Older adults hold stories, traditions, and experiences that strengthen community identity — but without intentional programming, those connections are often lost. Over the next 5–10 years, more organizations will create structured opportunities for intergenerational storytelling, mentorship, and shared service.
The biggest shift will be the rise of programs that bridge generations to solve social challenges together. Communities thrive when young people and older adults learn from one another, collaborate, and build genuine friendships. This kind of intergenerational engagement reduces isolation, strengthens social bonds, and helps youth develop empathy and leadership skills that prepare them for life and work.
Be Better Together, Inc. is already leading in this direction — empowering youth through leadership, empathy, and volunteer service while honoring the wisdom of older adults. As society continues to value connection, compassion, and community resilience, this model will become not only relevant but necessary.
Pricing:
- Compassion is free.
- Empathy is free.
- Love is free.
- Hugs are free.
- Kindness is free.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://bbtogetherinc.org
