In this episode of College & Beyond: Real Talk with Amour Carthy, we sit down with Laila Johnson, a dynamic Spelman College student passionate about social justice and advocacy. Growing up in Philadelphia, Laila honed her voice early, participating in oratorical contests and even publishing an op-ed in the Philadelphia Inquirer about the impact of a newly implemented student lottery for magnet schools. Now, as a sociology and anthropology major with an education minor, she continues her work through Spelman’s social justice program, under the guidance of her advisor, Dr. Spence.

Laila has competed in debate tournaments at Vanderbilt and Howard, showcasing her skills in argumentation and advocacy. She has also taken her studies global, studying abroad in Santiago, Chile, broadening her perspective on activism beyond U.S. borders.

With a deep-rooted legacy—her mother, a Spelman alumna and lawyer, and her father, a Morehouse graduate and preacher—Laila is carrying forward a tradition of leadership, advocacy, and impact. Tune in to hear her inspiring story, her thoughts on using debate, writing, and activism as tools for change, and what’s next in her journey.

Don’t miss this powerful conversation! 🎙️✨