The Urban Strategies, Inc. (USI) CDFI, an economic vibrancy strategy, is implemented because we believe in investing in communities and the next generation of changemakers. One standout example of this investment is Camera Lemons, a finance major at Clark Atlanta University and an intern whose passion, insight, and dedication have made a lasting impact during her time with USI
Merging Finance with Purpose
For Camera, community development runs in the family. Both of her parents are deeply rooted in nonprofit work. That early exposure shaped her desire to do meaningful work that uplifts others. When she discovered USI CDFI, she saw an opportunity to blend her academic background in finance with her passion for people, with a national leader in moving results for children, families, and communities.
“USI offered an intersection between both of those things,” she explains. “I just really wanted to be a part of something that was bigger than myself and make an impact on those who needed it the most.”
A Day in the Life of a CDFI Intern
From day one, Camera was trusted with real responsibility. Her work includes conducting research on businesses across USI’s target markets and facilitating outreach to entrepreneurs.
But one of the most rewarding projects she’s worked on is the “storytelling spotlight,” a series that captures the journeys of small business owners, particularly Black entrepreneurs, and USI’s role in their success. Currently, USI CDFI has 32 active loans in our portfolio and has disbursed a total of $4,178,000 amongst those borrowers for both small business loans and predevelopment loans.
“It’s been really cool listening to how their businesses have grown and turned around because of the support they’ve received,” she says. “It’s inspiring to witness their creativity and resilience.”
Building Skills That Last
Internships are meant to be learning experiences, and Camera’s journey has been no exception. She credits USI with helping her grow in unexpected ways, especially in communication and research. Working with clients across the country has pushed her to adjust her style and tone depending on the situation, sharpening her ability to connect and communicate effectively, and leading with authenticity and boldness.
She also discovered the art of balancing data and storytelling:
“As a finance student, most of my research has been quantitative. But here, I’m collecting qualitative data (people’s stories) and learning how to be concise and impactful in presenting it.”
Feeling Valued as a Young Professional
One of the most affirming parts of Camera’s experience has been feeling like a true team member.
“Sometimes interns fear they’re not really contributing. But at USI, I have felt valued from the beginning,” she says. “Everything I’ve done has been utilized, presented, and actually made an impact.”
Her mentor, Julian Wyatt, Director of USI CDFI, has consistently supported her growth and welcomed her voice in meaningful discussions.
Looking to the Future
As her internship draws to a close, Camera remains focused on finding a role that allows her to continue combining financial expertise with service to others. Whether it’s conducting personal finance workshops or helping minority entrepreneurs access capital, she’s determined to create economic opportunity in underserved communities.
“If I can use my skills to uplift people and strengthen communities, that’s where I want to be.”
An Idea for USI’s Future
From her conversations with clients, Camera has identified a valuable opportunity for USI: the creation of an in-house mentorship program.
While existing partnerships with organizations like SCORE have been helpful, many clients would benefit from having a dedicated USI mentor to help with business planning and strategy.
“It would be a major value-add,” she says, underscoring the importance of direct, ongoing guidance.
Final Thoughts & Advice for Future Interns
Camera’s advice to future USI interns is simple and powerful:
“Know that you are valued. Your work matters, so give it your all.”
She leaves her internship with a deep sense of purpose, new skills, and lifelong lessons about community resilience and the role of financial tools in creating change.
We are grateful for her contributions and look forward to seeing the impact she will continue to have in the future.
Why It Matters
Investing in internships like the one Camera experienced isn’t just about providing experience. It’s about building what’s next.
At USI CDFI, we believe that investing in young leaders, especially those with a passion for equity, innovation, and community, creates a ripple effect. When we empower students to lead, listen, and learn in real-world environments, we’re not just helping them grow. We’re planting seeds for stronger businesses, more inclusive economies, and more resilient neighborhoods.
Innovation comes from fresh voices, bold ideas, and individuals who are willing to put in the work to make change a reality. That’s what internships like these are all about.
Ready to Make an Impact?
If you’re looking for more than just another internship: something meaningful, where your work actually helps people, the USI CDFI might be the place for you. Here, you’re not just running errands or sitting on the sidelines. You’re doing real work, gaining real experience, and making a real difference in communities that need it most.
We’re always looking for passionate, curious people who want to grow, learn, and leave things better than they found them.
Sounds like you?
We’d love to hear from you. Click here to begin building the future with USI.
