Ayanna Cole

Ayanna M. Cole is a social justice leader dedicated to empowering youth in historically underserved communities. Her work focuses on building partnerships with institutions that can help level the playing field shaped by structural racism. Drawing on a unique blend of experience across the corporate, media, grassroots, and nonprofit sectors, she collaborates with young people and partners throughout New York City to find creative, community-driven solutions to complex social challenges. 

In her current role as Director of Social Impact Programs at Carnegie Hall’s Weill Music Institute, Ayanna leads initiatives that harness music to drive meaningful change. Previously, she founded Life Light Street Productions, a street outreach initiative that taught youth how to create social issue documentary films, amplifying their voices and perspectives. 

Ayanna also brings a strong background in media production. She has held multiple roles across media companies, including serving as a Producer at A&E Television Networks/History Channel. There, she co-produced an Emmy Award-winning educational special for middle and high school students, focused on the life-altering impact of drug addiction and the power of recovery. 

She holds a Bachelor of Arts from Morgan State University, an MBA from Fordham University, and a Master of Social Work from Columbia University.