Originally from Kingston, Jamaica, Nicola Karesh has called the mountains of western North Carolina home for 27 years. With a deep commitment to community work, Nicola has dedicated over half of this time to serving the Rosenwald community. Currently, she works with incarcerated youth in the Georgia Juvenile Justice system and alternative youth in the school system, while also finding time for creative and expressive projects.

An international poet, community activist, writer, and author, Nicola’s background in Counseling, Psychology, and Languages enriches her multifaceted career. She is the owner of Morning Glory Inspirations and the creative force behind The Peace Tree Garden Project, The African American Storyline Project, and “Faces of Freedom.”

Nicola’s contributions have been recognized with a Certificate of Appreciation from the Rosenwald Community, honoring her thoughtful expression and exceptional representation through word and art. As Edith Darity, a visionary Rosenwald historian and alumna, beautifully stated, “Our heartfelt appreciation for your journey with us. You shared our passion, our vision, and our love for the community. For your thoughtful expression and exceptional representation of the Rosenwald Community through word and art, we are grateful. Thank you for helping us ‘write our story.’”