Next Level Justice was founded in 2020 by two Black women in
Houston

We aim to create avenues for action and inspire change for communities of color, LGBTQIA folks, and people with disabilities. At Next Level Justice we envision a world where no one is unjustly incarcerated, racially profiled, or harassed by the very people with power that were put in place to protect us. In order to organize effectively and contribute to real change in the world  we will create innovative new solutions with marginalized communities in mind and partner with like-minded organizations.

We worked together at a non-profit for years as the only two Black women on staff and formed Next Level Justice to continue using our skills to do the work we are passionate about -- prioritizing the needs of Black and Brown people, LGBTQIA folks, and people with disabilities over organizational politics."

-Dione Friends & Latisha Shahzad

Latisha Shahzad

I am the behind the scenes number cruncher for Next Level Justice. I have extensive experience establishing effective business and accounting practices in both for profit and nonprofit organizations. My specialty is creating and streamlining processes designed to increase accuracy and productivity.

I co-founded Next Level Justice because I have a son who is both autistic and non-verbal. I often worry about how he will be treated if he's ever stopped by police and doesn't follow their instructions. I want to be a part of conversations that will lead to creating tech tools for my son and others like him to have at their disposal whenever they feel threatened or need help.

Dione Friends

I am the creative brain behind Next Level Justice. I believe in working for social change. As an experienced communications professional with over 10 years in nonprofits, I successfully launched many creative campaigns including two other social justice smart phone apps. I've seen firsthand how access to technology can motivate and inspire people to think creatively about community change instead of using the same old tactics.

​As a black, LGBTQ, woman winning equality is everything to me that's why I co-founded Next Level Justice. I am using my skill set as an organizer, communicator, and creative to help others amplify their voices learn new skills, and connect with like-minded folks. You can reach me at dione@nljustice.com.

We work with superstars

Sydney Pritchard

Graphic Design Consultant

Lacy McDaniel

Marketing Consultant

Stephen Wilson

Digital Media Consultant

Amanda Gonzalez

Learning Systems Consultant