Jonel Edwards Mickles is a 32 year older leader in the community power building organization, Dream Defenders. Originally from Miramar, Florida by way of Jamaica, Jonel entered the world of activism after the murder of Trayvon Martin, putting together marches on her college campus at the University Of Florida. During that time Jonel became politicized and involved with the Dream Defenders on her campus becoming a chapter leader. Shortly after her graduation in 2013 she was brought onto Dream Defender staff as an organizer working with local Dream Defender membership across North Florida. Over the past nine years Jonel has gone from campus member, organizer, youth organizer, Wildfire Project trainer, Training & Membership Development Director, to Co Executive Director for the Dream Defenders where she plays an important role in the evolution and strategy of the Dream Defenders organization. Jonel has also been heavily influenced by the work of her siblings across the globe, from Palestine, to Brasil, to South Africa and beyond who have demonstrated what collective work towards liberation must look like! "This work has transformed me, everyday I rediscover my voice, my power, my dignity, and my community."