To stimulate economic development and civic engagement by empowering marginalized individuals, entrepreneurs, and community leaders through education, advocacy, and access to resources.
To cultivate an inclusive, thriving community where young urban professionals are connected, equipped, and positioned to lead positive, lasting change across Eastern North Carolina and beyond.
Founded in Eastern North Carolina, Young Urban Professionals (YUP ENC) was created to fill a critical gap — a space where young professionals, creatives, and community leaders from marginalized communities could be seen, supported, and mobilized.
It all started with a conversation among like-minded community leaders who saw a need for intentional spaces where purpose, culture, and progress could thrive together.
What began as an idea quickly grew into a movement rooted in action. YUP ENC launched with impactful community events and evolved into a trusted organization focused on voter education, entrepreneurship, civic engagement, and economic empowerment.
In a region where resources are often limited, we chose to lead with innovation, integrity, and community-first values. Today, YUP ENC continues to grow as a grassroots force for equity, leadership, and opportunity.
We are led by a diverse team of doers, thinkers, and builders who understand what it means to show up for our community. From entrepreneurs and educators to advocates and artists, our leadership team reflects the very people we serve.
We believe in lifting as we climb. Everyone on our team brings lived experience, passion, and purpose to the work we do — ensuring YUP ENC stays grounded in the culture while moving with intention.
Our work is only possible because of the strong partnerships we’ve built with local businesses, nonprofits, educational institutions, civic leaders, and community members who believe in the mission.
We proudly work with organizations and individuals who understand the power of collective impact — and who are just as committed to building a better Eastern NC.
Whether you’ve donated, collaborated, sponsored an event, or simply showed up — we see you, and we thank you.
Interested in becoming a YUP ENC partner? Let’s build together. Contact us at info@yup-enc.org.
Jameesha Harris is a passionate community leader, strategist, and advocate committed to empowering marginalized communities through civic engagement, education, and entrepreneurship.
As the co-founder of YUP, she has helped lead programs and initiatives that bridge culture with impact, creating space for leadership, growth, and community
Jameesha Harris is a passionate community leader, strategist, and advocate committed to empowering marginalized communities through civic engagement, education, and entrepreneurship.
As the co-founder of YUP, she has helped lead programs and initiatives that bridge culture with impact, creating space for leadership, growth, and community transformation.
A former Alderwoman for the City of New Bern, Jameesha brings over a decade of experience in public service, nonprofit leadership, and grassroots organizing — all driven by her mission to build stronger, more informed communities.
Bio Forthcoming
Bio Forthcoming
This one-of-a-kind painting by artist Tyrone Brown captures the original Stanley White Recreation Center — a historic community landmark in New Bern destroyed by Hurricane Florence.
🎨 All proceeds support YUP ENC’s voter education and community empowerment initiatives.
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