Farah Blount

Co-Founder, Program Manager/College Student Liaison

My name is Farah Blount, and I am the founder of Mind of a Child Tutoring. I created this initiative because I believe every student deserves access to the academic support they need to reach their full potential, regardless of their family's financial circumstances.

As a middle school student, I worked hard and consistently earned strong grades, yet I still experienced the pressure to keep up and excel. There was one subject I continually struggled with, and I often wondered how different my experience might have been if I had had consistent access to tutoring outside the classroom. Would having additional support assist me in strengthening my understanding, building more confidence, and easing the anxiety of do I truly belong?

As I began talking with my peers, I realized that my experience was far from unique. Many students wanted extra academic support but lacked access to affordable tutoring opportunities, particularly the one-to-one experience rather than being placed in a group.

I came to understand that talent and determination are universal, but opportunity is not. That realization inspired me to take action.

Mind of a Child was founded on the belief that every child deserves the chance to thrive academically, build confidence in their abilities, and pursue their goals without financial barriers standing in the way of the support they need to succeed.

Josephine Jean-Charles

Co-Founder, Student Liason

Dayniah Manderson is a veteran English educator with years of success within the NYC public school system.

She obtained both her B.S. in English Education and her M.A. in School Building Leadership from NYU. She is a believer in Gardner’s Theory of Multiple Intelligences and in Vygotsky’s zone of proximal development, which are the cornerstones of her pedagogy.

In addition to her experience in teaching English, Ms. Manderson also creates a nurturing environment for her students. She understands the impact of socio-emotional health and ensures that all children have a sense of belonging and feel valued.

Merle Anselm

Parent Liasion

Merle Anselm is an educational advocate and consultant dedicated to advancing educational equity and expanding opportunities for students from underserved communities. For more than 15 years, she has focused on in empowering students to succeed in rigorous academic environments and reach their full potential.

Through her consulting work, Merle partners with families to navigate educational pathways, identify enrichment opportunities, and develop strategies that support student growth and achievement. She is passionate about ensuring that all students have access to the resources, guidance, and support needed to thrive.

Merle holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from Baruch College and brings more than 25 years of experience in event planning, nonprofit leadership, fundraising, and community engagement.

Samantha Shakes

Program and Technical Director

Samantha Shakes received a B.A. The University of North Florida in Sociology and Mass Communication. Her passion is supporting children’s creativity, educational growth, and seeing them thrive.