Dr. Chandra Y. Cooper is a woman whose leadership is guided by purpose, rooted in heritage, and driven by transformation. A nonprofit executive, media strategist, and cultural preservationist, Dr. Cooper has turned passion into impact, uplifting underserved communities while honoring the legacies that shaped them.
A defining moment in Dr. Cooper’s journey was the establishment of the Muddy Waters Mojo Museum. “Preserving his home wasn’t just about bricks and mortar—it was about protecting history, legacy, and identity,” she shares. Her vision secured over $1 million in grant funding, city and national landmark status, and solidified her as a cultural advocate committed to legacy-building.
Asked how she balances her many roles—activist, CEO, counselor, and storyteller—Dr. Cooper answers with clarity: “I lead from a place of service. My work is my ministry.” From founding Grateful Girls, Inc. to produce annual youth-focused anti-trafficking conferences, to running housing programs for survivors, she meets community needs with strategy and heart. Her initiatives have educated over 1,000 youth and created more than 200 jobs, a testament to her belief in healing through empowerment.
“What do I hope my work inspires?” she reflects. “That no matter your background, you can be the voice that breaks cycles and preserves legacies.” Whether through her media company, Mojo Communications Group, or her earlier years reporting for NBC and CBS, Dr. Cooper has consistently amplified marginalized voices. Her storytelling gifts now support nonprofit messaging, youth advocacy, and cultural representation.
As she looks ahead, Dr. Cooper envisions leveraging her Honors of Distinction recognition to deepen collaborative efforts, expand museum programming, and mentor the next generation of women leaders. “Legacy is not about one achievement—it’s about who you lift along the way,” she says.
About Dr. Chandra Y. Cooper
Dr. Chandra Y. Cooper is a nonprofit executive, media strategist, cultural advocate, and visionary leader dedicated to social impact. She is the founder of Grateful Girls, Inc., and the Muddy Waters Mojo Museum, and CEO of Mojo Communications Group. With degrees in Marketing Communications and Counseling, she blends storytelling with service to uplift communities, preserve heritage, and support survivors of human trafficking. A recognized thought leader, Dr. Cooper continues to transform lives through advocacy, entrepreneurship, and cultural preservation.
