Harlie Williams

Harlie Williams is the Founder and Executive Director of Black Girls Govern, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering the next generation of Black girl civic leaders. A first-generation college student, she founded the organization to create the resources, mentorship, and leadership pathways she wished had existed for her growing up. Black Girls Govern advances civic education, grassroots organizing, and political confidence through conferences, panels, educational programming, and community-based initiatives that center Black girls’ voices and lived experiences. 
 
Through her advocacy, Harlie has become a recognized leader in the fight for the CROWN Act in Florida, working to advance policies that protect Black students and professionals from hair-based discrimination. She has collaborated with leaders and organizations connected to the CROWN Coalition powered by Dove, as well as brands including Miss Jessie’s and Briogeo, to bridge policy, culture, and corporate social responsibility in service of social change. 
 
Harlie is currently a sophomore at Harvard University studying Government. She is deeply committed to advancing racial and gender justice by amplifying the voices of communities historically excluded from decision-making spaces. Her work sits at the intersection of youth civic leadership, policy advocacy, and cultural change, with a focus on creating sustainable, community-centered impact for Black girls and young women.