Atlanta Welcomes Ayesha Khanna as New Executive Director of Tides Center
In the heart of Atlanta, exciting news is brewing for those who care about social justice. The Tides Center, a national philanthropic organization dedicated to uplifting communities, has appointed long-time civic leader Ayesha Khanna as its new executive director. With a mission to promote democracy and improve the lives of marginalized communities, Khanna’s new role is certainly cause for celebration.
Who Is Ayesha Khanna?
Ayesha Khanna is no stranger to the nonprofit world. Before taking the helm at the Tides Center, she spent nearly five years as managing director of CARE Enterprises Inc., which focuses on impact investments for the global humanitarian organization. With a strong background in civic innovation, Khanna has previously led efforts at Points of Light for a decade, along with important leadership roles at the United Way of Greater Atlanta and the YWCA of Greater Atlanta. Her extensive experience showcases her deep commitment to community service and social change.
A New Mission in a New Role
In a recent interview, Khanna shared her enthusiasm for her new position. The Tides Center aims to support up-and-coming nonprofits in Atlanta and beyond, focusing particularly on grassroots solutions. “I’m excited to be working on these issues and working with an organization that prioritizes these issues,” she said. Under her guidance, Tides is set to further its impact in the Southeast, where building partnerships will be key.
Khanna noted how the organization is expected to deploy approximately $480 million in grants this year alone! This funding is part of Tides’ campaign to create a greater impact through social programs. With nearly 50 years of experience, Tides has raised around $1 billion in assets through various initiatives and donor-advised funds, making it a solid player on the national stage.
Grassroots Focus and Impact
The Tides Center is committed to working with marginalized communities—those often most affected by changing policies. “The timing of joining Tides right now in this political climate is inspiring to me because of its focus on marginalized communities,” Khanna expressed passionately. She emphasized that Tides can really lift up the voices of those who aren’t always heard.
Currently, the Tides Center has about 65 employees and works with more than 135 active fiscally sponsored partners across the nation. Khanna’s vision includes the creation of a national network of social justice leaders, particularly among Black and brown communities, to accelerate their impactful work. This strong focus on community-building could make waves in the social landscape.
Looking Ahead
Khanna is thrilled about her new role without having to leave the city she loves. Many Tides operations are remote, but the organization regularly convenes its executive team to collaborate on impactful projects. “I’m excited about building new partnerships in the Southeast,” she said. Particularly as Tides expands its work nationally, Atlanta could be at the forefront of this growth.
On the ground in Atlanta, examples of Tides’ sponsored projects can be found making a tangible difference. Community members can look forward to seeing how Khanna’s plans will unfold as she guides Tides Center in its mission to provide support and resources to essential grassroots projects.
Final Thoughts
As Ayesha Khanna takes her place at the Tides Center, she carries with her an unwavering commitment to social justice and community development. With her extensive background and passion for uplifting marginalized voices, there’s a wave of optimism that Atlanta will see meaningful changes in the realm of civic engagement and social equity. So, buckle up, Atlanta—exciting times are ahead!
