Queenshipp

Tanaka Shipp, a visionary leader originally from Byhalia, MS, has been making waves in Denver's non-profit sector for over a decade. As the founder and Executive Director of QueenShipp, Tanaka has dedicated her career to empowering young people, particularly Black girls, Latinx youth, and LGBTQ+ individuals.

Under Tanaka's leadership, QueenShipp has become a beacon of hope and transformation for marginalized youth in Denver and Aurora. The organization's innovative programs, including the LeadHers Luncheon Series and Cultural Immersive Outings, have touched the lives of hundreds of young people, fostering positive identity development, leadership skills, and cultural pride.

QueenShipp's impact is evident in the success stories of its participants. From increased academic performance to improved self-esteem and community engagement, the organization's holistic approach has yielded tangible results. Tanaka's vision has led to partnerships with multiple schools and community organizations, expanding QueenShipp's reach and influence.

A graduate of The Denver Foundation's Executive Directors of Color Institute (EDCI), Tanaka brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of community needs to her work. Her commitment to authenticity and inclusivity has made QueenShipp a safe haven for all young women, including queer, trans, and non-binary individuals.

Tanaka's personal journey, including her recent decision to come out, has further deepened her commitment to supporting youth in their own journeys of self-discovery and empowerment. Her courage and vulnerability have strengthened QueenShipp's mission and resonated deeply with the young people they serve.

Beyond QueenShipp, Tanaka is the co-founder of Denver's first African American women's philanthropic giving circle, Sisterhood of Philanthropists Impacting Needs (SPIN). Under her guidance, SPIN has contributed over $70,000 to Denver's non-profit sector, focusing on organizations serving African American women and girls.

Tanaka's impact has been widely recognized. She was awarded The Urban Leadership Alumni of the Year Award in 2017, named Distinguished Graduate for ULFC's 2013 cohort, and was the 2022 CommunityBuilds Award Recipient from Community Works. In 2021, she was honored by the Denver Urban Spectrum as an African American Who Makes A Difference. Additionally, Tanaka was selected to be part of the Colorado Trust's Eight28 Cohort, a group of 22 black-led, black-serving organizations throughout Colorado participating in intentional capacity building over 8 months. Her work with QueenShipp continues to garner attention and support, positioning the organization for growth not just locally and nationally, but with aspirations for international impact.

A graduate of Jackson State University with a BA in Sociology, Tanaka's global perspective was shaped by her experiences as one of the first students to study abroad in Taiwan and China. She is currently completing the Executive Program in Social Impact Strategy at the University of Pennsylvania, further enhancing her skills as a social impact leader.

When not championing for youth empowerment and social justice, Tanaka enjoys grilling for friends, golfing, thrift store shopping, and collecting vintage Blues and R&B vinyl records.

Through QueenShipp, Tanaka Shipp is not just changing lives – she's shaping a more inclusive, empowered future for all young people in Denver and beyond.