20 Under 40 | Alicia Walker
Written and compiled by LAUREN JURGENSEN | Photos by JOHN BURN
Executive Director | Community Action, Inc.
Founder | HEARTS: Helping Empower Adolescents Reject Thoughts of Suicide
After the loss of her brother, Alicia founded HEARTS to raise awareness about youth suicide. Through programs like Connection Resilience Empowerment Worth (CREW), she has empowered Topeka youth to take on community issues with confidence.
Alicia oversees strategic planning, program development, fundraising and leadership growth within her team at Community Action. With more than 15 years of experience in social services, she drives change by fighting poverty, building partnerships and uplifting families across Topeka.
Alicia also gives back through community organizations like Topeka JUMP and El Shaddai Ministries Community Church. She is a graduate of the Strategic Leadership Academy and has been recognized as Washburn University’s Site Supervisor of the Year.
What’s your favorite way to unwind after a busy week?
Gardening and yardwork. I love being outside, listening to afrobeats and pulling weeds under the warmth of the sun. It may sound counterproductive, but staying busy outdoors helps me recharge. That said, I also enjoy curling up in bed with a good show and an oatmeal cream pie.
What advice would you give to young professionals?
Participate. Early in my career as an executive assistant, I stayed quiet in meetings even though I had thoughts to share. The turning point came when I asked my supervisor if I could begin contributing. That moment taught me that young professionals’ voices are just as important as seasoned leaders’ voices. Be confident, because your insight and experience can move mountains.
What advice would you give to someone aspiring to be a leader?
Seek out a mentor who will invest in you and hold you accountable. There is nothing more valuable than being guided by someone who believes in you and recognizes your potential. Great leaders are often shaped by the people who surround them.
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