ChangeMakers

A logo that reads changemakers

ChangeMakers is a series from MPR News showcasing Minnesotans from diverse, often underrepresented backgrounds who are making an impact. Whether they’re making history or making a difference for just one person, these individuals are leaders building new futures for their communities. Scroll down to meet our ChangeMakers.

ChangeMakers: Leslie Redmond, youngest leader of Mpls. NAACP
Leslie Redmond, 26, became the youngest president of the Minneapolis branch of the NAACP when she was elected to the position in March. She is pursuing her law degree and Master of Business Administration at St. Thomas University.
ChangeMakers: Melvin Carter, first black mayor of St. Paul
St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter is a fourth-generation St. Paulite and the first black mayor of St. Paul. Before he was elected mayor in 2018, he served in former Gov. Mark Dayton's administration and on St. Paul City Council.
ChangeMakers: Michelle Walker, getting kids ready to learn
Michelle Walker, 45, is executive director of Generation Next. The nonprofit works to help children get ready for school, from kindergarten to college.
ChangeMakers: James Badue-El, lifting up the locked up
James Badue-El is the criminal justice state chair for the Minneapolis NAACP where he works to reduce prison recidivism.
ChangeMakers: Justice Alan Page and Paris Yarbrough, a legal legend and the next generation
Justice Alan Page is Minnesota's first black Supreme Court justice and is the founder of the Page Education Foundation. Paris Yarbrough is a Page Scholar studying law at the University of St. Thomas.
ChangeMakers: Walter 'Q bear' Banks Jr., instrumental to the Minneapolis sound
Walter "Q bear" Banks Jr. has been broadcasting the Minneapolis sound at the station for 40 years. "It doesn't matter what color you are. Black people do exist and we can be owners of companies and owners of businesses," Banks said.
ChangeMakers: Artiera Evans inspires young minds
Artiera Evans, 31, is a third-grade teacher at Emerson Spanish Immersion Learning Center in Minneapolis, who was recognized for helping one student in particular.