Your Mission Matters
Black Woman on a Mission describes women who are focused, determined, and driven to reach their goals and live their purpose. The mantra is an expression of admiration for the resilience, strength, and perseverance of Black Women who often face challenges in their pursuit of success.
Congratulations to our Scholarship Winner
Cana Brooks
Cana is the inaugural recipient of the Lucille’s Kids $5000 scholarship, presented by Black Woman on a Mission. She is a first-year undergraduate student starting at Howard University this fall studying History, Psychology, and Communication and participating in the “Showtime” marching band. With her zeal for activism and philanthropy, Cana aims to create social change and inspire her peers around her by leading by example.
Cana advocates for her community and has dedicated the past few years to philanthropy, social justice, and volunteerism. She established the organization Cana Cares, which focuses on improving the lives of those in need. As the President and Founder, she has spearheaded initiatives to support diverse groups in need, raising over $9,000 used to make a positive impact on the homeless, the elderly, the sick, teens, children in foster care, victims of domestic violence, and more.
In addition to her philanthropic pursuits, she served as the President of the University High School Black Student Union and is a charter member of the Bloomington/Normal NAACP youth council. Prior to her high school graduation, she was a member of the Town of Normal Youth on a Mission, the Drum Major of her school’s band, and a junior editor of the yearbook staff. Cana's accomplishments include receiving the 2022 Harry Hightower "Youth Community Service Award," the 2022 MLK "I Have A Dream Award Winner," a 2022 & 2023 Bronze Medal Photography - BloomingtonNormal ACT-SO, the 2021 YICU Service Award, and the 2021 (NSHSS) National Society of High School Scholars.