Hajo Jaafaru

Program & Events Coordinator

Hajaratu Jaafaru, who goes by Hajo (Ha-Joe), is a thoughtful event coordinator and creative professional rooted in care, clarity, and celebration. With over three years of experience in event management, administrative support, and customer service, she brings a purposeful and goal-oriented approach to every project she touches.

Her love for planning began early, before she knew it was a gift—watching her mom and aunties organize church events with food, decor, and deep hospitality. Whether helping out at church or hosting small gatherings for loved ones, Hajo naturally followed the path of leadership, connection, and support.

She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Sociology with a minor in Psychology from Augsburg University and was part of the inaugural class of Dougherty Family College at the University of St. Thomas. Her studies give her a systems-based lens for understanding people and institutions. She draws on the concept of the social imagination—the ability to connect personal experiences to broader social forces—to design events that are both personal and socially aware.

Hajo is a self-starter and go-getter. She co-founded Kreyatif Noir, leading three major Black creative events, and served as Creative Director at Synergia Gallery, where she developed a 10-month project exploring nature, emotion, and perception through art. She now brings this same vision and care to her work at Black Men Teach, supporting mission-driven programming with intention, heart, and attention to detail.

Other Staff Members:

Jordan LewandowskiJordan Lewandowski

Jordan Lewandowski

High School Program Director

Dr. Courtney Bell-DuncanDr. Courtney Bell-Duncan

Dr. Courtney Bell-Duncan

Senior Director of Collective Impact

DeSean SmedleyDeSean Smedley

DeSean Smedley

College Cohort Program Director

Rosemarie NdupuechiRosemarie Ndupuechi

Rosemarie Ndupuechi

Chief Advancement & Marketing Officer

Alex McCoyAlex McCoy

Alex McCoy

Senior Manager of Teaching & Learning

Markus FlynnMarkus Flynn

Markus Flynn

Executive Director

Sean SweatSean Sweat

Sean Sweat

Impact Director