The Community Initiatives of New York (TCIONY) in Harlem

The Community Initiatives of New York (TCIONY) (https://www.tciony.org/) hosted Weather or Not 2.0 on March 31, 2026, at The Forum at Columbia University (605 W 125th St., Harlem). Featuring a panel of female meteorologists and STEM professionals, the event delivered a truly inspirational experience focused on career pathways, climate awareness, and community impact — welcoming over 100 participants in attendance.

The coordinated event, held in partnership with NASA and the NYC Department of Environmental Protection, was intentionally scheduled during March in honor of Women’s History Month. The Weather the Storm Panel, organized by TCIONY, served as an empowering and interactive forum centered on careers in STEM and meteorology.

The event highlighted key aspects of climate education while also creating meaningful networking opportunities to inspire future leadership and careers in weather and meteorology. Esteemed panelists included Somara Theodore, Brittaney Bell, Dani Beckstrom, Hope Osemwenkhe, and Audrey Puente.
https://www.tciony.org/event-details-1/weather-or-not-your-dreams-matter
https://www.instagram.com/p/DWSS1naDXHh/

TCIONY is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to empowering Black and Brown communities across New York City. Through innovative programs, partnerships, and youth-led initiatives, the organization works to break down barriers, advance equity, and create meaningful opportunities. Their efforts include anti-violence programming and community empowerment initiatives that uplift voices across generations — building stronger, safer, and more vibrant communities.

TCIONY has remained steadfast in its commitment to ensuring that every voice has the opportunity to rise. As expressed by the organization, TCIONY is “Where Community, Justice, and Youth Power Unite.”

“Through powerful partnerships with corporations, schools, and community leaders, TCIONY creates programs and initiatives that become stepping stones to progress for individuals and families across New York City. Our heartbeat is rooted in serving underrepresented Black and Brown communities — fighting for justice, equity, opportunity, and voice in the face of systems designed to hold them back.”
(https://www.tciony.org/)

Additional TCIONY programming includes:

• T.A.G. Nights (#YouthSpeaks): A weekly safe space where youth can speak openly about their lived experiences — from school and home to the pressures they navigate daily.
• Teens Against Guns: A youth-led movement confronting gun violence through rallies, marches, and community action — empowering young people as leaders in the fight for safer streets.
• T.A.G. Initiative: Providing young people not just a seat at the table, but the microphone — shaping conversations, leading movements, and proving that when youth speak, the city listens.

TCIONY exists with purpose — grounded in urgency, resilience, and love for community. The organization continues to dismantle systemic barriers, advocate for equity, and empower high-risk youth to become storytellers, leaders, entrepreneurs, and changemakers for the future.

https://www.linkedin.com/company/tciony
https://www.instagram.com/tciony/

Written by: Danyal Sorel