Ayoka Samuels

As Vice President of Bitwise Chicago, Ayoka Noelle Mota Samuels ensures that the residents of Southside Chicago and beyond have access to-and take advantage of-the support, services, and opportunities Bitwise Industries provides. This work includes serving and partnering with a whole host of stakeholders, such as families, business owners, and community organizations–all committed to making this vision a reality. Ayoka earned a Bachelor of Science degree at the University of Illinois, followed by a Master of Non-Profit Management from Spertus Institute. Her goal within Bitwise Chicago is to improve the quality of life for Southsiders, with a specific focus on those from Black and Latinx communities. Through Bitwise, she hopes to create another path for families that have suffered extreme disinvestment over several decades. Ayoka’s investment in her community started from a young age and has shaped her into the leader she is today. From being involved with the Girl Scouts of America to being 4-H President, she has learned the power and positivity of youth development opportunities. Her community involvement extends to board memberships at Seminary Co-op Bookstores, Chicago Community Chorus, and Leadership Fellows Association of Leadership: Greater Chicago.