Meet Tra’Donn Glover

We recently connected with Tra’Donn Glover and have shared our conversation below.

Tra’Donn, thank you so much for joining us and offering your lessons and wisdom for our readers. One of the things we most admire about you is your generosity and so we’d love if you could talk to us about where you think your generosity comes from.

The generosity of The T. Monaye Foundation comes from the heart and lived experience of its founder and CEO, Tra’Donn M. Glover. Growing up in Miami and returning home after graduating from Florida A&M University, Tra’Donn knew firsthand the importance of community support and opportunity. Her desire to give back to the place that shaped her has been the driving force behind the foundation since she started it in April 2021. Giving back isn’t just a mission, it’s part of who she is as a person, instilled in her values and reflected in every initiative the foundation leads. This spirit of generosity flows outward to youth in the community, especially as the foundation helps young people transition into adulthood with encouragement, resources, and opportunities for success.

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?

At the heart of my work is The T. Monaye Foundation, a nonprofit I founded to uplift, empower, and support youth as they transition into adulthood. The foundation was created out of lived experience and a deep understanding that many young people need guidance, resources, and encouragement during pivotal moments in their lives. Our mission is centered on providing mentorship, educational support, life-skills development, and community-based initiatives that help young people build confidence and create sustainable futures.

What excites me most about this work is the direct impact and being able to see individuals grow, gain access to opportunities, and realize their potential. The foundation is special because our approach is rooted in authenticity, community engagement, and meeting people where they are. We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions; instead, we focus on intentional programming that reflects the real needs of the communities we serve.

Beyond the mission, I want people to know that The T. Monaye Foundation is about more than programs, it’s about creating a culture of hope, consistency, and empowerment. We are committed to being a trusted presence in the community and a bridge to opportunity for those who may not always have access.

Currently, we are focused on expanding our outreach through community events, partnerships, and fundraising initiatives that allow us to serve more youth and families. We are also continuing to grow our mentorship and educational efforts, with upcoming events designed to bring people together for both impact and connection.

The T. Monaye Foundation is not just a nonprofit, it’s a movement grounded in purpose, service, and the belief that when young people are supported, entire communities thrive.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

Resilience was essential. Building something meaningful is never linear, as there were setbacks, doubts, and moments where giving up felt easier. What made the difference was learning to keep going, adapt, and grow through challenges rather than being discouraged by them.

Advice: For those early in their journey, understand that setbacks are part of the process. Build resilience by staying committed to your “why,” learning from failures, and surrounding yourself with people who encourage growth.

Community awareness has been another critical skill. Understanding the real needs of the community—not just perceived ones—shaped how the foundation serves others. Listening, being present, and learning from lived experiences allowed our work to be intentional and impactful.
Advice: Spend time listening before acting. Volunteer, ask questions, and engage with the communities you want to serve. True impact comes from understanding, not assumptions.

Finally, purpose-driven leadership has guided every decision. Leading with integrity, compassion, and a clear mission ensures that the work remains meaningful and sustainable. Purpose keeps you grounded when things get challenging.
Advice: Clarify your purpose early. Let it guide your decisions, partnerships, and goals. When your work aligns with your values, passion turns into impact.

Before we go, maybe you can tell us a bit about your parents and what you feel was the most impactful thing they did for you?

The most impactful thing my parents did for me was instill strong values and a sense of responsibility to others. They taught me the importance of integrity, hard work, and giving back, not just through words but through their actions. I learned early on that success isn’t just about personal achievement, it’s about how you uplift others along the way. That foundation of discipline, faith, and compassion continues to guide how I lead, serve, and show up for my community today.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.tmonayefoundation.org
• Instagram: t.monayefoundation_