Tamice Spencer-Helms

Tamice Spencer-Helms

Sub:Culture Inc

Richmond, VA

Sub:Culture Inc. is a Black led nonprofit striving to remove barriers to holistic well-being, social flourishing and academic success for Black university students. Founded by Tamice Spencer,-Helms, the Sub:Culture program offers a comprehensive and transformative experience  for Black students designed to foster the personal and professional growth, along with financial support to offset unexpected costs that often cause students to drop out. Through 1:1 mentoring, students receive personalized guidance and support, while the curricular focus on soulful leadership emphasizes holistic development, helping them build internal capacity, interpersonal resonance, and a well-integrated sense of identity.

About: Tamice Spencer-Helms, the founder and CEO, is a visionary leader committed to serving young adults. A graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University in 2006, she has dedicated her career to connecting with Black college students through culturally relevant programs. Armed two Master's degrees in Contextual Leadership and Theology, Tamice is completing her doctoral degree in Ethics & Social Transformation at United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities.

Spencer-Helms founded the program after working as a college chaplain and recognizing how many Black students were forced to drop out because of unexpected financial challenges. Sub:Culture Fellows receive a small monthly stipend and access to a fund for emergency use.

“By focusing on leadership development that incorporates social justice principles and ethical leadership, our fellows are equipped to identify, address, and innovate solutions to systemic injustices. Our model leverages the intersection of academic rigor and practical experience, such as through our Empower First Program, which places fellows in settings where they can enact change and challenge the status quo” says Spencer-Helms.