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About Us

Essex County Young Professionals (ULECYP)

Who We Are

Urban League of Essex County’s Young Professionals (ULECYP) is an official affiliate of the Urban League of Essex County (ULEC). We are a network of young professionals dedicated to career development, civic engagement, and community service. Through leadership training, networking opportunities, and advocacy initiatives, ULECYP empowers the next generation of leaders across business, government, nonprofit, and community sectors.

Our members include emerging professionals, entrepreneurs, and civic leaders who are committed to strengthening Essex County through economic empowerment, education, and social impact initiatives.
ULECYP is based in Essex County, New Jersey, and operates as a leadership pipeline for young professionals looking to make meaningful contributions to their careers and communities.

Why ECYP?

ULECYP provides a direct pathway to leadership opportunities, professional training, and community service. Unlike traditional networking groups, ULECYP connects members with mentors, career resources, and civic initiatives designed to elevate their personal and professional growth.

ULECYP has supported over 50 young professionals in advancing into leadership roles and has facilitated more than 1,000 volunteer hours in Essex County.

Our Mission & Focus Areas

ECYP is committed to empowering young professionals through leadership, career development, and civic engagement. The organization focuses on four key areas:

ULECYP provides access to career readiness workshops, mentorship programs, and industry networking opportunities to help members advance in their fields.

ULECYP educates and mobilizes young professionals on policy issues, voting rights, and community advocacy efforts.

ULECYP members participate in volunteer initiatives, mentorship programs, and public service projects to uplift Essex County residents.

ULECYP prepares young professionals for board service, government positions, and executive roles in various industries.

Meet the Leadership Team

Executive Board

ULECYP is led by a dedicated executive board and committee chairs who oversee its programs and initiatives.

Akeem Cunningham

President

Akeem Cunningham serves as the President of ECYP and is responsible for overseeing the organization’s strategic initiatives and leadership development programs.

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Kyleesha Wingfield-Hill

Vice President
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Michael Corbitt Jr.

Treasurer

Michael Corbitt Jr. manages the financial planning and budgeting for ECYP, ensuring sustainable funding for programs and events.

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Yvonna Wade

Secretary

Yvonna Wade supports the organization’s operations, keeping records and ensuring transparency in decision-making.

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Phillip Reed

Chief of Staff
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ULECYP is also supported by committee chairs who lead various initiatives, including marketing, advocacy, membership, and social events.

Professional Development

ULECYP provides career advancement opportunities to help young professionals develop the skills they need to succeed.’
Members have access to:

Career Readiness Workshops, including resume-building, interview preparation, and job placement support.

Leadership Training Programs that prepare young professionals for management and executive roles.

Entrepreneurship Support, with business development resources and networking for aspiring business owners.

ULECYP also collaborates with industry leaders and hiring managers to connect members with job opportunities and mentorship programs.

Civic Engagement & Advocacy

ULECYP provides career advancement opportunities to help young professionals develop the skills they need to succeed.’
Members have access to:

Career Readiness Workshops, including resume-building, interview preparation, and job placement support.

Leadership Training Programs that prepare young professionals for management and executive roles.

Entrepreneurship Support, with business development resources and networking for aspiring business owners.

ULECYP also collaborates with industry leaders and hiring managers to connect members with job opportunities and mentorship programs.

Community Service & Outreach

ULECYP members take part in hands-on service projects that benefit Essex County residents.

Current initiatives include:

Annual Back-to-School Drives, providing students with essential school supplies.

Food & Clothing Distributions, ensuring that families in need receive critical support.

Mentorship & Youth Development Programs, helping young students build confidence and career readiness skills.

ULECYP also collaborates with industry leaders and hiring managers to connect members with job opportunities and mentorship programs.

Our Partners & Sponsors

ULECYP collaborates with corporations, nonprofits, and government agencies to expand opportunities for young professionals.

Current partners include:

Urban League of Essex County, providing professional development and advocacy support.

City of Newark, assisting with civic engagement initiatives.

City of East Orange, supporting leadership training programs.

ULECYP also welcomes new partnerships with organizations interested in supporting young professionals through mentorship, sponsorships, or event collaborations.

Featured Member Spotlight

Member of the month

How ULECYP Helped Me Secure My First Leadership Role “Through ULECYP, I connected with mentors who guided me in advancing my career in public service.”
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