Founder

Aaron Johnson, Founder of the Johnson Mapenzi Consulting Firm, is a champion for economic justice with over a decade of experience in career development and community violence intervention. He has built a career focused on community transformation, equity, and healing. In previous roles, he managed the economic inclusion portfolio at the Partnership for Southern Equity and honed his trauma-informed care approach at CHRIS180 and The Urban League of Greater Atlanta. Early on, Aaron supported re-entry programs at Fulton and Douglas County jails and taught English at a local alternative school.

As founder, Aaron has laid the framework for the firm’s mission of activating the agency of individuals and communities, with a talented team continuing to advance this vision. His leadership and expertise remain foundational to the firm’s focus on economic justice, inclusion, and wealth-building, while he dedicates much of his energy to driving systemic change in his personal life.

Managing Director

Lauren Jacobs, Managing Director

Lauren Jacobs is a seasoned leader with over six years of experience as a Recruitment Strategist, delivering successful talent acquisition solutions for Fortune 100 and 500 companies across Atlanta, Raleigh, Winston-Salem, Charlotte, Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Austin. Starting her career in the creative industry as a graphic designer, Lauren discovered her passion for recruitment while contracting with notable companies in the Atlanta area. She has since excelled in sourcing, recruiting, and placing high-level IT and Digital Marketing talent in both contract and permanent roles, generating over $2.35 million in consultant revenue.

As Managing Director of The Johnson Mapenzi Consulting Group, Lauren leads the firm with a vision to develop innovative recruitment strategies for both large-scale organizations and nonprofit entities. Her strategic approach and leadership have driven the firm’s growth and success.

VP of Therapeutic and People Services

Mr. Alfred Garner II is the Chief Program Officer at Covenant House Georgia where he is responsible for the oversight of all program planning, organizing, operating, and staffing—making sure that they are centered on the best interests of the youth. Alfred has an intensive work history in Child Welfare, education, behavioral health, and community capacity building. Alfred has obtained a bachelor’s in social work from Albany State University and is a member of the Phi Alpha Honor Society. He also secured a graduate degree in Social Work from Clark Atlanta University where he also served as an adjunct professor at Clark Atlanta University Whitney M. Young School of Social Work.

Chief Reentry and Life Coaching Officer

Kiska Lyons leverages her experience as a Human Capital Management Project Manager to aid the reintegration of justice-involved individuals into the workforce and community. She holds credentials as a SHRM Certified Professional and a Justice-Involved Care Life Coach, making her well-equipped to help these individuals overcome employment barriers and establish sustainable careers.

Kiska excels in creating effective onboarding and targeted reentry plans, and her strong communication skills enhance her collaborations with various stakeholders. She has initiated a Life Skills training program for young male adults in the Georgia Department of Juvenile Justice and leads restorative circles to address gun violence in Atlanta. Outside of work, her interests in cycling and cultural exploration enrich her service to diverse communities, emphasizing balance and personal growth in her reentry efforts.