Nkoyo Effiong Lewis, Georgia State Senate Dist. 38

I am a mother, an attorney, and a former public school teacher. And, I am running to be your next state senator. I know that real change requires solutions that we can feel – not just policy reforms on paper. Together, we can build a future where all Georgians can thrive.

My journey to the Gold Dome is one of bridging worlds and understanding diverse perspectives. I grew up in a vibrant immigrant family in Ogden, Utah, where my parents moved from their home country of Nigeria.

I watched my parents courageously navigate building a life and community in a new country, and I learned from them the values of hard work, resilience, and the importance of community. I carry these values at the heart of my commitment to public service and my vision for Georgia.

After graduating from Brown University with an A.B. in American Civilization, I moved to Atlanta to pursue teaching and taught 4th grade at Hamilton Holmes Elementary in East Point. Teaching had a profound effect on how I saw children being failed by adults on a systemic level – and the urgency with which we must act to change this.

Frustrated and charged by the inequities in our public education system, I decided to pursue a law degree and graduated from NYU School of Law. I eventually opened my own law firm to represent families and small businesses.

I supported families who need representation within the school systems – to advocate for children experiencing unfair discipline practices, to fight for children who weren’t receiving their needed special education support, and to support parents’ groups to empower and guide parents in advocating for themselves and their families.

Throughout this work I always sought to change the system and set precedents so future families wouldn’t have to battle for fair and dignified treatment of their children.  That’s why I’m running for the Georgia Senate – to fight to make lasting systems changes that Georgians can truly feel – because the zip code you’re born into shouldn’t determine your future.

As a mother, I intimately understand the needs and aspirations of families. My husband and I know what it’s like to have more month than money. We’ve struggled to find quality schools and childcare for our children.

Everyday we try to balance being hardworking professionals, great parents, and engaged citizens. This reality drives my determination to create laws that foster stability and growth for all Georgians. I’m done waiting around for the same old boys’ club to make the changes we know we need in our communities.