Yolo Akili Robinson (he/him/his)
is a non binary award-winning writer, healing justice worker, yoga teacher, and the founder and Executive Director of BEAM (Black Emotional and Mental Health Collective).
For over 20 years Yolo has led and designed mental and emotional health workshops, experiences, support groups and training.
His experience includes:
- Facilitating anger management and anti-violence groups with Black men and boys.
- HIV/AIDS case management & peer counseling
- Training community on CDC Behavioral health interventions such as Personalized Cognitive Counseling (PCC)
- Teaching mental health literacy to Black communities.
- Leading Yoga & embodiment experiences
- Healing justice centered organizing.
In 2018, Yolo was awarded the prestigious Robert Wood Johnson Foundation "Health Equity Award" for his work. He was also featured at the 2020 BET Awards as an "Empowerful Spotlight," highlighting his work facilitating the vision of BEAM. He has delivered keynotes at numerous universities, colleges and conferences such as Vanderbilt, Claremont Mckenna, Columbia University and the Milken Institute.
For press inquiries, booking information, or questions, please contact Akili@yoloakili.com









Writings and Work
His writings and work have appeared on Shondaland, GQ, Women's Health, USA Today, Vice, BET, Huffington Post, Cassius, Ebony, Everyday Feminisms and more. He is the author of the social justice themed affirmation book, Dear Universe: Letters of Affirmation & Empowerment for All of Us (Michael Todd Books, 2016) and a contributor to the New York Times Best Seller, Tarana Burke and Dr. Brené Brown's anthology on Black vulnerability and shame resilience, You are Your Best Thing ( Random House Books,2021).
Writings and Work
His writings and work have appeared on Shondaland, GQ, Women's Health, USA Today, Vice, BET, Huffington Post, Cassius, Ebony, Everyday Feminisms and more. He is the author of the social justice themed affirmation book, Dear Universe: Letters of Affirmation & Empowerment for All of Us (Michael Todd Books, 2016) and a contributor to the New York Times Best Seller, Tarana Burke and Dr. Brené Brown's anthology on Black vulnerability and shame resilience, You are Your Best Thing (Random House Books, 2021).

Podcasts




Features and Writing
Click or tap to read each article

BEAM is a national training, grantmaking and movement building organization dedicated to the healing, wellness and liberation of Black and intentionally exploited communities.
For press inquiries, booking information, or questions, please contact Akili@yoloakili.com