Know More about Calique..

Calique Barnes is an extraordinary young leader, advocate, and entrepreneur who is shaping the future of youth empowerment and leadership in his community. His journey began at just 6 years old when he began preaching, and by 12, he was officially licensed by his then-Pastor, now Bishop Timothy D. Proctor Sr., at Prayer and Praise Ministries, a church that has been his spiritual home since the age of 4. Calique’s early experiences in ministry helped him develop a deep understanding of the power of leadership and service to others, laying the foundation for his work today.

Founder and Executive Director of LeadDC Youth Empower, Calique is committed to giving young people a platform to advocate for themselves and their communities. Through LeadDC, he engages with local government officials, council members, and the mayor’s office in Washington, D.C., to address critical issues facing youth, such as education, safety, and employment opportunities. His advocacy work emphasizes creating tangible change in the lives of young people by ensuring they have access to resources, mentorship, and support.

In addition to his advocacy work, Calique is also the CEO of Barnes Digital Dezign & Media, a company dedicated to helping young people launch organizations and thrive in the digital age. Through his business, Calique provides youth with the digital tools, resources, and guidance they need to succeed in today’s technology-driven world. Whether it’s developing a website, creating a social media presence, or crafting a digital marketing strategy, Barnes Digital Dezign & Media helps youth entrepreneurs and leaders take their organizations to the next level.

Despite his extensive responsibilities, Calique has remained focused on his education. He currently attends Thurgood Marshall Academy Public Charter High School in Washington, D.C., where he is on track to graduate in 2025. As a student, Calique has demonstrated an exceptional ability to balance his academic pursuits with his leadership roles.

Looking ahead, Calique is set to attend Morehouse College in the fall of 2025 as part of the class of 2029. He plans to major in Communications with a minor in Political Science. Calique chose Communications because he believes in the power of storytelling to connect, inspire, and drive change. His minor in Political Science will equip him with the knowledge and skills needed to advocate for policy changes that impact the lives of youth and communities. Inspired by Morehouse’s rich legacy of producing leaders like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Calique is excited to join a college that will nurture his leadership abilities and prepare him for a career of service and advocacy.

Calique’s work is driven by a strong desire to serve others, and his leadership style reflects a deep commitment to justice, equality, and youth empowerment. His vision is to create a world where young people are not just leaders of tomorrow but are actively leading today. Through his ministry, advocacy work, and businesses, Calique is paving the way for the next generation of leaders to thrive.