LUL Young Professionals

About LUL Young Professionals

The purpose of the Louisville Urban League Young Professionals (LULYP) is to support the objectives of the National Urban League, Louisville Urban League, and National Urban League Young Professionals. Our mission is to promote social and economic empowerment in Metro Louisville through personal development and community involvement in five areas:

  • Financial Literacy and Empowerment
  • Youth Mentoring and Development
  • Civic Engagement and Advocacy
  • Personal and Professional Development
  • Health Literacy and Advocacy

LULYP’s membership predominantly consists of African American professionals between the ages of 21 and 40. We continue to promote a healthy, viable, and inclusive Metro Louisville community that supports the growth, learning, and development of young professionals. Join, or contact us using the form below.

young man in office at computer

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Our History & Leadership

Historically, the NUL has been recognized as the nation’s oldest and largest community-based movement devoted to empowering the underserved to enter the economic and social mainstream. Today, there are over 100 local affiliates of the NUL located in 36 states and the District of Columbia, and over 52 NULYP chapters, providing direct services to more than two (2) million people nationwide through programs, advocacy and research.

Executive Leadership Team

Jimmy Ray
Jimmy RayPresident
Jimmy Ray is a seasoned professional with over a decade experience in sales, business, personal finance and management. Known professionally for his persistence and his ability to find and implement simple, yet thorough solutions to every problem in order to create tangible results for his clients. But loved personally for his sincerity, transparency, and passion for doing what’s right.

As a financial advisor with several years of experience, specializing in retirement and financial planning, Jimmy Ray is committed to ensuring the financial success of his clients and seeks to change the narrative and culture of the financial services industry:

“I believe that the financial planning needs of every client should far outweigh how much money they have to invest. That is why with me, client needs will be met regardless of asset size.” – Jimmy Ray

As a member of the Urban League, Jimmy Ray is committed to making a positive impact on the lives of small and minority-owned business owners, young professionals, and entrepreneurs. He values building relationships and feels blessed to be in a position to positively impact the lives of others.

Zena Stephens
Zena StephensVice President of Administration
Zena Stephens arrived in Louisville, KY by way of St. Louis, MO, but is a native of Miami, FL. She is dedicated to community and corporate involvement that positively impacts historically marginalized groups, and possesses a desire to provide an inclusive, nurturing and supportive environment to promote equity. Zena earned her bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Oglethorpe University in 2013. This enabled her to better understand the systems and cultural impacts that negatively affect underrepresented populations. In 2017, Zena earned her Masters of Business Administration, specializing in Strategic Human Resource Management. This degree launched Zena’s professional HR career, where she has focused on Total Rewards, Equity, and Engagement. In the community, Zena has volunteered with mentorship organizations, as well as local service groups and churches. She currently serves as the VP of Administration for the Louisville Urban League Young Professionals and a Big Sister for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Kentuciana. She previously held the Programs Committee Co-Chair position for the Louisville Urban LeagueYoung Professionals.

Committee Chairs

Vacant Community & Civic Engagement
Vacant Economic Empowerment
Vacant Education & Youth Empowerment
Vacant Health & Quality of Life
Vacant Membership
Vacant Professional Development
Vacant Programs
Vacant Public Relations