Kinyatta Coe recently joined the Women’s Fund of Central Indiana as the executive assistant to the president. In her role, she provides essential administrative support to the president and the staff, helping to ensure the organization’s operations run smoothly. Her contributions will be invaluable to the team, and we are thrilled to have her on board.
What excites you most about your new role at Women’s Fund?
I’m excited to support Tamara Winfrey-Harris and the Women’s Fund of Central Indiana as they advance their mission of convening, investing, and advocating so all who identify as women or girls living in central Indiana have an equitable opportunity to reach their full potential no matter their race, place, or identity. Working alongside a leader committed to equality, representation, and opportunity is inspiring. I’m passionate about the organization’s focus on economic mobility, caregiving, and gender equity. Programs like GO: Give Back, OPTIONS, and the Executive Women of Color Leadership Program are making significant impacts, and I’m honored to contribute to these efforts. This role is deeply fulfilling as it amplifies women’s voices and fosters lasting change.
If you could have dinner with any three women, living or historical, who would they be and why?
- Ruth Bader Ginsburg—she was a trailblazer for gender equality and a powerhouse on the Supreme Court. Her insights on law, perseverance, and resilience would make for an inspiring dinner conversation
- A toss between Stacey Abrams and Michelle Obama – Both women have used their platforms to advocate for justice, equality, and the empowerment of others. Stacey Abrams has been a force in democracy and voting rights, proving that persistence and advocacy can lead to systemic change. Michelle Obama’s journey from a young girl on the South Side of Chicago to First Lady of the United States is inspiring. Her work in education, health, and women’s empowerment has changed lives worldwide.
- My 11-year-old niece – She represents the future, and I want to invest in her the way strong women have invested in me. I would love for her to be at the table, hearing from powerful women who have shaped history and are shaping the present. I want her to see firsthand that she, too, has the power to lead and make an impact
What do you see as the biggest challenges facing women in Indiana today?
Based on the State of Women’s Report. Women in Indiana face multiple challenges, including:
- Financial instability: Women earn 70 cents for every dollar a man earns, regardless of education or occupation.
- Healthcare access: Economic barriers prevent many women—particularly Black and Hispanic women—from seeking necessary medical care.
- Domestic violence: 71% of reported domestic violence victims in Marion County are women.
These challenges reinforce the importance of programs like Go Give Back, where we are teaching young people the value of giving, leadership, and service. The more we equip future generations with the knowledge and tools to advocate for change, the stronger our communities will become.
Who is a woman that has inspired you, and why?
This is such a hard question because so many women have inspired me throughout my life. I am blessed to have been surrounded by strong, resilient, and empowering women who have shaped me into the person I am today.
First and foremost, the women in my family—my late grandma, mom, aunties, and sister—have been my foundation. Their strength, love, and unwavering faith have instilled in me the values of perseverance, service, and leadership. They have taught me what it means to be resilient in the face of challenges, to love unconditionally, and to stand strong in my faith and purpose.
The women in the church have also played a pivotal role in my journey. From my time in youth and women’s ministries, I have been mentored and uplifted by women who have poured into me spiritually, emotionally, and personally. Their wisdom and guidance have been invaluable, and I carry their lessons with me in everything I do.
Beyond my personal circles, I am deeply inspired by historical women figures who have paved the way for future generations.
And now, in my journey with Women’s Fund, I am meeting incredible women like Tamara Winfrey-Harris, whose leadership and commitment to gender and racial equity are making a profound impact in Central Indiana. Seeing women like her actively creating change reminds me why I am so passionate about this work and how important it is to continue lifting and supporting women and girls.
The truth is, women inspire me every day—whether it’s through their leadership, their kindness, their advocacy, or their quiet strength. Each woman I encounter adds to my journey, shaping my perspective and fueling my passion for service and empowerment.