Community Partnership in Action

Partner Spotlight: D’Sha Edge

“Being in that space and witnessing confidence, creativity, and camaraderie among the students made a lasting impression on me.”

Community impact begins with connection. As the Partnerships Coordinator at Experience Columbus, D’Sha Edge leads the organization’s Small Business Program—an initiative dedicated to amplifying and supporting small minority-owned businesses across the city. Her work focuses on building relationships, elevating local entrepreneurs, and creating access to resources that help small businesses thrive.

Her connection with Lead The Way Learning Academy began at an Open Mic Night, where she witnessed the confidence and creativity of LTW students. That experience sparked a desire to stay involved.

“It highlighted just how essential community and intentional support are in helping young people grow,” she says. From that moment, D’Sha knew Lead The Way was a mission-aligned partner.

Strengthening The Ecosystem

What inspired D’Sha to formally partner with Lead The Way was the realization that LTW’s model is both rare and much needed.

“Lead The Way offers young people meaningful opportunities to explore their interests, develop new skills, and envision career pathways—without the pressure of immediately pursuing a traditional college route,” she explains.

Their collaboration has strengthened both organizations. For LTW, D’Sha often serves as a bridge to businesses and partners who share the same commitment to youth empowerment. For Experience Columbus, the partnership aligns with their work to uplift minority-owned businesses and expand marketing opportunities that support economic inclusion throughout Columbus.

“Creating these bridges has strengthened the ecosystem of support available to our youth.”

Addressing Decisions Past High School

As a parent of a daughter entering high school, D’Sha understands firsthand how overwhelming postsecondary decisions can be. That’s why she believes career readiness and exploration matter now more than ever.

Programs like Lead The Way help students discover fields they may have never considered, build confidence through hands-on experience, and make informed decisions about life after high school. Experience Columbus plays a role in that ecosystem by elevating organizations doing meaningful work with youth.

“By producing visibility for organizations such as Lead The Way, we help connect residents and newcomers to programs dedicated to empowering the next generation,” she says.

Businesses Featured at LTW Events

One of the most memorable parts of partnering with LTW, D’Sha shares, has been connecting their team with small businesses involved in Experience Columbus’ Small Business Program. Many entrepreneurs are eager to engage youth, introduce them to new career paths, and spark interest in entrepreneurship.

“Through these conversations, it’s been inspiring to witness a truly collaborative community emerge—one where businesses and organizations are united in helping young people grow,” she says.

These partnerships have already made an impact at last week’s Winter Island Family Game Night, where we had minority-owned businesses featured at the event. The work has already created meaningful new connections for Lead The Way.

Community Partnerships in Action

For D’Sha, the equation is simple: “None of us can develop the future workforce alone.”

Schools bring academic foundations, nonprofits provide resources, and students bring their own growing talents. When these groups collaborate strategically, the results are transformative.

She encourages businesses and individuals to get involved in whatever way they can—whether through partnership programs, the Smal Business Program, hosting students, or simply showing up.

Through her leadership and heart for community, D’Sha Edge exemplifies what partnership can look like when connection and purpose lead the way.