ShaQiyla F. Banks is a passionate youth advocate, entrepreneur, humanitarian, and community leader committed to creating equitable opportunities that empower young people to learn, grow, and thrive. Born and raised in Northeast Wichita, Kansas, ShaQiyla has dedicated her career to strengthening communities through youth development, mentorship, advocacy, and service. She believes that positive relationships, intentional support, and access to meaningful resources can transform the trajectory of young people’s lives.

As the Founder and Executive Director of Equity Initiative, Inc., ShaQiyla leads an organization focused on equipping young people with the skills, resources, and support needed for lifelong success. Through programs such as SkillBuilders and Academic Boost, Equity Initiative provides youth with opportunities to develop essential life skills, strengthen academic achievement, build confidence, and create meaningful connections with mentors and peers. The organization serves students through hands-on experiences, academic support, leadership development, and community engagement opportunities designed to help young people grow academically, socially, and personally.

ShaQiyla’s commitment to youth development extends beyond her nonprofit leadership. She has more than 12 years of experience with the Sedgwick County Department of Corrections – Juvenile Services, where she currently serves as a supervisor of resident-centered programming at the Juvenile Detention Facility. In this role, she leads programming efforts that support youth growth and rehabilitation, including life skills education, enrichment opportunities, religious services, and volunteer partnerships.

Throughout her professional and community work, ShaQiyla has collaborated with numerous organizations and initiatives dedicated to youth empowerment, including Big Brothers Big Sisters, AmeriCorps GRASP, Youth First Youth Leaders Network, Girls Circle Network, National Crittenton Social & System Change for Girls, and various local youth advocacy efforts. She has also contributed to statewide advocacy efforts through her involvement with the Kansas Second Look Act Coalition (KSLAC), supporting community engagement, policy conversations, and initiatives focused on creating opportunities for meaningful review, rehabilitation, and second chances.

ShaQiyla’s leadership and service have been recognized through numerous honors and achievements. She was named a Wichita Business Journal 2025 Class of 40 Under 40 honoree, recognizing her professional accomplishments, leadership, and impact within the Wichita community. She was also selected for the Kansas Leadership Center Class of 2025, a statewide leadership program focused on strengthening civic leadership and developing collaborative approaches to addressing complex community challenges. Additionally, ShaQiyla received the 2024 Citizen of the Year Award from the Mu Nu Nu Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. and was recognized as Mentor of the Year for her dedication to guiding, supporting, and empowering young people.

Academically, ShaQiyla is an honors graduate of Wichita State University, earning both her Bachelor’s degree and Master of Arts degree in Criminal Justice. Her educational background, professional experiences, and personal connection to the community have shaped her understanding of the barriers young people face and strengthened her commitment to developing solutions that create lasting impact.Through her leadership, advocacy, and service, ShaQiyla continues to champion the belief that when young people have access to positive relationships, supportive environments, and equitable opportunities, they are empowered to reach their full potential and become leaders who shape the future.