From Vision
To Impact
Where Dreams Become Legacies
We don't just teach entrepreneurship — we ignite revolutions in young minds.
Welcome to the movement that's rewriting the future.
Empowering the Next Generation of Game-Changers
We equip youth and young adults with the entrepreneurial mindset, leadership skills, and real-world experience to turn their boldest visions into tangible impact.
Cultivating Purpose-Driven Revolutionaries
To ignite a global movement of confident innovators who lead with heart, hustle with purpose, and transform communities through their unstoppable vision.
This Isn't Just a Program — It's a Legacy in the Making
Every student who walks through our doors becomes part of something greater than themselves — a movement that's changing what's possible for the next generation.
Visionary Founder & Curriculum Developer
Born from a Legacy of Transformation
YELA didn't just appear — it exploded into existence from decades of faith, resilience, and an unshakeable belief in what young people can achieve when given the right tools and unwavering support.
Founded by visionary leader Cheryl Ellis-Taylor, YELA is the living, breathing extension of her life's work through Creative Nonprofit Business Consultants. Where others saw limitations, Cheryl saw limitless potential waiting to be unlocked.
A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Cheryl brings over half a century of business wisdom, leadership development, and nonprofit consulting to every YELA student.
With a Master's in Leadership & Management and certifications in Nonprofit Management, Cheryl doesn't just teach — she transforms. Her life's work through Creative Nonprofit Business Consultants laid the foundation for YELA's revolutionary approach.
"My greatest achievement won't be my own success — it will be watching the thousands of young leaders I've helped launch change the world."
The Architect of Action
LaTia Brooks is the powerhouse driving the planning and execution of YELA. As a seasoned business strategist, coach, and grant writer, LaTia is the force that transforms YELA's vision into reality. She brings structure to creativity and strategy to passion.
From curriculum design to operational excellence, from budget oversight to community engagement, LaTia ensures every YELA experience is seamless, impactful, and transformative.
"Ideas are worthless without execution. I'm here to make sure every YELA student's vision becomes their reality."
Program Operations Manager & Strategic Powerhouse
Youth Ambassador & Program Spokesperson
The Embodiment of YELA
Nevaeh Griffin serves as the official youth voice and ambassador of YELA. As a driven teen leader with a passion for entrepreneurship and empowerment, Nevaeh isn't just representing YELA — she IS YELA. She's living proof of what happens when young visionaries are given the tools to thrive.
Bridging the gap between students and leadership, Nevaeh shapes engagement strategies, creates authentic content, and inspires her peers through relatable storytelling and genuine connection.
"I'm not just learning how to build a business — I'm learning how to build a movement. And you're invited to join me."
Why YELA Exists
We saw the gap. We felt the frustration. We witnessed brilliant young minds being told to wait their turn
while the world desperately needed their innovation NOW.
The Launchpad
Not just guidance — a rocket ship to propel young visionaries into their purpose.
The Mindset Shift
Transforming "I wish" into "I will" and "someday" into "starting today."
The Movement
Creating a global hive of young leaders who don't just adapt to the world — they redesign it.
Who We Serve
Ages 20+
The Ambitious Trailblazers
Where uncertainty meets unstoppable momentum
🧭 Find Your True North: Lost in the "what should I do with my life?" maze?
We'll help you chart a course only you can follow.
💼 Build Your Own Path: Tired of choosing between soul-crushing jobs or uncertain entrepreneurship? Create option #3 — your way.
🌟 Unlock Your Superpowers: Discover the unique combination of skills, passions, and experiences that make you irreplaceable in this world.
The Values That Fuel Our Fire
We don't give answers — we unlock the genius already within you. Take ownership of your future with unshakeable confidence.
Rise together. Build together. Win together. Your success lifts us all, and our collective power amplifies your impact.
Break rules. Challenge norms. Create solutions that didn't exist yesterday. The world needs your fresh perspective.
Lead with integrity, courage, and crystal clarity. True leaders don't just manage — they inspire revolutions.
Build something that outlives you. Your impact today becomes someone else's launchpad tomorrow.
Ready to Join Us?
For Students
Join our next cohort and start your transformation from dreamer to doer to difference-maker.
For Mentors
Share your wisdom, experience, and network to help shape the next generation of leaders.
The best way to predict the future is to create it - together.
Contact Us
(909) 706-8795
contact@yela.academy
Open Hours
By Appointment Only
Location
Upland, CA
YELA 2025. All Rights Reserved.