2025 aadfl board election
Meet the 2025 AADFL Board: A Bold New Chapter for Black Political Power in Minnesota
June 22, 2025
On June 7, 2025, members of the African American DFL Caucus (AADFL) came together to elect a dynamic new board — a team committed to building Black political power, transforming systems, and creating a more just and representative Minnesota.
This year’s election brought together passionate community leaders, seasoned organizers, and new voices ready to uplift our collective vision. Together, they represent a powerful blend of lived experience, strategic insight, and unwavering commitment to equity.
Meet the newly elected board:
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Nico Woods, Chair
Visionary. Mentor. Community Champion.
Nico Woods brings a powerhouse of experience in grassroots political organizing, corporate sales leadership, and civic engagement. A high-performing sales executive at a Fortune 500 company, Nico has helped over 20 candidates win public office — including supporting the historic election of Brooklyn Park’s first Black mayor.
He’s known for turning bold ideas into action, like leading COVID-19 outreach, registering thousands of voters, and training the next generation of Black political leaders. Nico’s vision for the AADFL is focused on increasing Black voter participation, driving policy change in education and entrepreneurship, and building generational wealth through sustained civic power.
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Miasia Wise Haidara, Co-Chair
Strategist. Movement Builder. Policy Advocate.
Miasia brings extensive experience in political strategy, climate justice, and statewide civic engagement. She has built multimillion-dollar programs, developed grassroots and grasstops mobilization strategies, and led campaigns that shifted policy and changed lives.
As Co-Chair, her focus is on strengthening AADFL’s infrastructure, forming strategic partnerships, and expanding Black voter engagement across the state. Miasia leads with transparency, vision, and a belief in collective power to create lasting change.
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Nia Wilson, Secretary
Faith-Led. Justice-Driven. Legacy-Minded.
Nia Wilson got her start in politics at the George Floyd memorial, registering people to vote, with nothing but a folding chair, a laptop, and a deep sense of purpose. Since then, she’s worked to rebuild Minneapolis after the unrest, flipped a Republican district, and served as Secretary for the Brooklyn Park DFL.
Now as Secretary of AADFL, Nia brings clarity, moral conviction, and deep community connection. Her focus is on practical solutions and authentic representation — not just louder voices, but better ones. She’s ready to help AADFL write the next chapter of African American political power in Minnesota.
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Alexis Varner, Treasurer
Advocate. Public Servant. Policy Professional.
A recent Political Science graduate from the University of Minnesota, Alexis Varner has already built an impressive record of community advocacy and public policy work. From organizing walkouts in high school to serving in the Minnesota Senate and leading local equity initiatives, Alexis is a force for justice.
She currently works in the Ramsey County Commissioner’s Office and leads the Vadnais Heights Community Action Network. Alexis is committed to fiscal responsibility, public transparency, and empowering communities through political education and inclusive governance.
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Chase Elliott, Community Engagement Director
Connector. Uplifter. Public Safety Advocate.
Since 2016, Chase Elliott has dedicated himself to improving public safety and uplifting families through community-centered approaches. His experience bridges the gap between safety and opportunity, with a focus on creating long-term solutions rooted in compassion and equity.
Chase’s work centers youth empowerment, resource access, and healing justice — all of which he brings to his new role at AADFL, helping the Caucus grow deeper roots in neighborhoods across Minnesota.
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Ayanna Ross, Communications Director
Storyteller. Life Coach. Mental Health Advocate.
Ayanna Ross is not just a communications professional — she’s a passionate community organizer and the founder of Split Ps, a nonprofit focused on mental health awareness. Her work on the Don Samuels for Congress campaign and with ACE’s voter registration efforts showcases her ability to connect civic participation with community well-being.
Ayanna brings creativity, transparency, and purpose to her new role, committed to making sure AADFL communicates with clarity, strategy, and heart.
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Amir Winston, Youth Director
Rising Strategist. Organizer. Scholar.
At just 20 years old, Amir Winston has already held leadership roles in multiple campaigns, including as Field Director for Mayor Hollies Winston and the AADFL Youth Mentor Program. A student of economics at North Hennepin Community College, Amir is deeply invested in the future of Black civic leadership.
As Youth Director, he’s focused on engaging young Black Minnesotans in the political process, growing voter turnout, and preparing the next generation of leaders.
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Mayor Hollies Winston, Chair Emeritus
Trailblazer. Executive. Public Servant.
Mayor Hollies Winston made history as Brooklyn Park’s first Black mayor and continues to shape Minnesota politics with courage and vision. A Northwestern and Carlson School alum, business executive, and public servant, Hollies has championed equity, innovation, and community-driven development throughout his career.
As Chair Emeritus of AADFL, his guidance and legacy continue to inspire and empower this new generation of Black leadership.
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The Road Ahead
The 2025 AADFL Board represents a transformative force in Minnesota politics — one that’s rooted in service, united by purpose, and focused on results. From the halls of government to the heart of our neighborhoods, this team is committed to building a future where Black Minnesotans are not just heard, but empowered.
We invite you to join us.
Become a member. Volunteer. Donate. Stay engaged.
Together, we rise.
