Biography
Hometown: Winston-Salem, North Carolina
Current Career Title: Co-founder, chief executive officer, 5K Foundation Inc.
Tangela Kenan is the CEO and co-founder of 5K Foundation, Inc., a nonprofit organization aiming to reduce gun and gang violence. The 5K Foundation sponsors mentorship, education and athletics programs. A proud wife and mother of two daughters and one son, Kenan brings her deep love of family into every aspect of her work.
Originally from Winston-Salem, North Carolina, Kenan moved to Durham in 2006 to pursue a degree in Political Science at North Carolina Central University (NCCU). It was at NCCU where she met her husband, Chris, and fell in love not only with him but also with the Durham community. Together, they’ve built a life rooted in service, purpose and faith.
Kenan’s work with the 5K Foundation focuses on creating safe, empowering spaces for Black and economically disadvantaged youth. Under her leadership, the foundation has partnered with organizations like NCCU and Duke University to provide one-on-one mentoring, sports programs and life-skills workshops for children ages 5–18.
Balancing the roles of mother, wife and nonprofit leader, Kenan draws strength from her values of faith, family and community. She frequently speaks at public forums, advocating for youth investment and encouraging local leaders to step up and support transformative outreach programs across Durham and beyond.