Growing up in Bed-Stuy, Fela and her siblings were bused to “better schools” outside the neighborhood. There, the hard truths of educational inequity – mistrustful teachers, disproportionate punishments, social isolation – battered their self esteem. When she became a mother, Fela wanted more for her children’s early education. Unable to find a preschool that combined academic excellence with a nurturing environment specially tailored to Black and Brown children, she set out to create one. 

Little Sun People (LSP) has shaped generations of New Yorkers. Over 40 years, LSP has become part of Bed-Stuy’s DNA — an enduring investment in children. Fela’s unique, Afrocentric preschool is founded on a culturally responsive curriculum that centers Black heroes and incorporates themes from grassroots organizing to social justice. Fela’s young students begin their educational journey in a community of joyful learners, where they are seen and celebrated.

In September 2022, LSP opened a new pre-school with room for additional grades and programming to expand their curriculum into K-3rd Grade, including a Cultural Explorers Summer Camp and After School Program. In June 2024, Mama Fela retired after four decades of work. But before she did, she worked on codifying LSPs curriculum, so its magic can be recreated for kids beyond the walls of LSP to the rest of New York City’s youngest learners.