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Martel Okonji, Ph.D. is a 2026 graduate of the PhD Program in Leadership and Change at Antioch University.

martel okonji committee

Martel Okonji at his Dissertation Defense.

From L-R: Dr. Kenneth Williams, Committee Chair, Dr. Harriet Schwartz, Committee Member, Dr. Eko Canillas, Committee Member.

Dissertation Committee

  • Kenneth Williams, EdD, Committee Chair
  • Harriet Schwartz, PhD, Committee Member
  • Eko Canillas, EdD, Committee Member

Keywords

community development, youth development, black lgbtq youth, homelessness, transitional-aged youth (TAY), case study, culturally responsive practice, qualitative research, leadership

Document Type

Dissertation

Publication Date

2026

Abstract

Black LGBTQ+ transitional-aged youth (TAY) experiencing homelessness navigate intersecting systems of marginalization that shape their access to safety and stability. While community development organizations play a critical role in addressing these inequities, limited research examines how these strategies are implemented. This study explored how a community development organization supports Black LGBTQ+ TAY experiencing homelessness. Using a qualitative single case study design, data was collected through semi-structured interviews with leadership, staff, and youth, and analyzed using thematic analysis. Grounded in community development theory and ethical leadership, the study examined how organizational practices shape outcomes. Findings revealed an affirming, relational approach centered on trust, identity affirmation, and holistic support, alongside persistent systemic barriers. This study highlights the importance of equity-centered organizational alignment and youth voice, calling for intentional, community-driven strategies that honor the resilience and lived experiences of Black LGBTQ+ youth. This dissertation is available in open access at AURA (https://aura.antioch.edu/) and OhioLINK ETD Center, (https://etd.ohiolink.edu).

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martel okonji

Martel Okonji

ORCID Id:  #0009-0006-9442-6185

Dr. Martel Okonji is a scholar-practitioner, educator, and community development strategist with over 15 years of experience advancing equity-centered systems that support children, youth, families, and historically marginalized communities. He is the Founder and Executive Partner of Developing Communities Together Consulting, where he partners with nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, and public agencies to strengthen program design, organizational capacity, leadership development, and community-driven approaches to systems change.

Dr. Okonji's work spans child welfare, juvenile justice, behavioral health, education, homelessness, and LGBTQ+ support systems, with a particular focus on how institutional practices and cross-sector collaboration shape outcomes for systems-impacted young people. His scholarship examines how community development organizations implement strategies that support communities while identifying tools, practices, and systems that move communities toward sustainable success.

In addition to his consulting practice, Dr. Okonji has held leadership roles across nonprofit, higher education, and public systems, including his current role as Pride Center Manager and adjunct faculty member at California State University, Northridge; his previous role as Director of Innovation at Safe Place for Youth; and his service as Commissioner for the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health. His expertise has been sought by colleges, national conferences, leadership summits, and government-affiliated convenings, including the Department of Children and Family Services, Stanford University, and institutions across California and beyond.

Blending research, lived experience, teaching, and systems-level practice, Martel brings an equity-centered and solutions-focused lens to strengthening interdisciplinary partnerships, building organizational capacity, and advancing more responsive, holistic systems of care.

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