Enlightening Education.

Compelling Conversation.

Black Cultural Celebration.

About BeProximity

We are dedicated to fostering community with and for people racially classified as Black in America. BeProximity organization aims to highlight Black historical education, experiential conversations, and cultural celebrations. Through various events and gatherings, we create a space for individuals to learn, engage in meaningful dialogue, and build genuine relationships rooted in cultural understanding. Our mission fosters authentic connections across races and promotes racial harmony. In our quest to challenge the narratives and stereotypes surrounding dark skin, we seek to celebrate the beauty of the African diaspora in America and enrich the lives of our communities, while doing so.

Additionally, BeProximity addresses the effects of systemic challenges by amplifying the voices of Black people concerning this experience in America, despite competition from other causes and agendas. We believe it is crucial to maintain this space in our communities to address the lack of education on Black history and current events in both public and private schools and systems. Moreover, we desire to support Black students, entities and organizations, by providing equitable opportunities for community engagement. We aim to cross-racially collaborate with supporters to expand opportunities and foster solidarity, creating a vibrant tapestry of skin colors united in our vision. Join us in cultivating a compassionate society where Black voices are heard, valued, and actively contribute to the enrichment and thriving of our communities.

Meet the Founder &
Executive Director

Jeanine (Fradieu) Riddle

Jeanine (Fradieu) Riddle is the Founder and Executive Director of BeProximity, a nonprofit organization established in 2024 to build authentic community through Black education, cultural celebration, and intentional connection. Rooted in Jeanine’s long-standing commitment to community leadership, BeProximity was created in response to a growing need for spaces that both center Black history and culture and invite the broader community into meaningful learning and shared understanding.

Jeanine’s work began as a grassroots Black History Month initiative in 2021 and has since evolved into a recognized community effort. In 2024, her leadership was formally acknowledged by the California State Assembly, California State Senate, and local faith and civic institutions. In 2025, BeProximity hosted its first official Black History Month event and received San Benito County’s first-ever Black History Month proclamation, reflecting the organization’s growing impact and regional relevance.

Through BeProximity, Jeanine leads culturally grounded programming that blends education, experiential dialogue, and celebration. The organization’s initiatives are designed to deepen cultural understanding, foster cross-community engagement, and build sustainable relationships across diverse populations — all while honoring the resilience, contributions, and lived experiences of the Black community.

In addition to her nonprofit leadership, Jeanine serves as CEO and Co-Owner of KJ Elite Sports, a multi-disciplinary youth athletics facility in Hollister, California. Her experience as a business owner informs her strategic, operational, and people-centered approach to nonprofit leadership, including program development, event execution, partnership cultivation, and organizational sustainability.

Jeanine’s leadership is guided by the belief that education creates empathy, celebration strengthens resilience, and proximity is essential for lasting community change. Through BeProximity, she continues to build inclusive spaces where culture is honored, stories are shared, and communities grow stronger together.Shorter Version (for sidebars or condensed layouts)

Jeanine Riddle is the Founder and Executive Director of BeProximity, a nonprofit organization committed to building community through Black education, cultural celebration, and meaningful connection. Founded in 2024, BeProximity grew from Jeanine’s long-standing work in community leadership and her belief that proximity, education, and celebration are essential to shared understanding.

Jeanine’s work has been recognized by the California State Assembly, California State Senate, and local civic leaders. Through BeProximity, she leads initiatives that honor Black culture while inviting the broader community into learning, dialogue, and collective celebration.

Board of Directors

  • Probation Counselor for Santa Clara County Probation Department

    As Vice President of the BeProximity Board, Starr Law brings over 20 years of experience in juvenile probation and a lifelong commitment to advocating for children and families. Her work centers on rehabilitation, equity, and community-based solutions—values that strongly align with BeProximity’s mission to help young people and communities thrive. 

  • Mercy Flights, Professional Development Coordinator
    Janna Rice serves as Board Secretary of BeProximity, bringing more than 20 years of experience across nonprofit management, international education, and professional development curriculum design and facilitation. Her interdisciplinary career has equipped her with a global perspective and a strong foundation in organizational leadership, learning design, and community engagement. The integration of these sectors has shaped her enduring commitment to volunteering in roles and spaces that amplify marginalized voices, foster empowerment, and encourage continuous personal and collective growth.

  • County of Santa Clara Social Services Agency, Research and Evaluation Specialist

    Martha Njie is a researcher with over 15 years of experience in education and social services, driven by a lifelong commitment to improving outcomes for individuals and families from low-income communities. Originally from The Gambia, West Africa, her journey across international education systems has deeply shaped her passion for equity, community engagement and client centered approaches that elevate the voices of those with lived experiences. As Board Treasurer of BeProximity, Martha is honored to support work that uplifts Black history, nurtures social consciousness, and creates spaces where connection and belonging can flourish.