Akilah Davis
I joined the WTVD news team in July of 2017 serving the Fayetteville-Fort Bragg community as Bureau Reporter. In February of 2021, I accepted a new role as WTVD's first Race & Culture Reporter. My focus is covering disparities in marginalized communities. Occasionally, you will find me covering general assignment stories.
My professional journey in North Carolina has been quite a ride. I watched as thousands traveled to Raeford, North Carolina to pay tribute to George Floyd, whose death sparked a global social justice movement. Since then, I've used data to bring stories to life highlighting inequities in housing, education, etc. While in Illinois, I covered the fiscal crisis, heroin epidemic's impact on newborns in Central Illinois and former President Barack Obama's 2012 watch party.
A Chicago native, I received my bachelor's degree from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and Master's from the University of Illinois at Springfield. I am also a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated.
I am proud to call North Carolina home and remain committed to sharing your stories. You can reach me here or on social media.
Akilah's Stories
Durham offers $10K for Fayetteville Street businesses, but owners say corridor needs more investment
Durham's Bounce Back program is providing grants and business support to help small businesses along Fayetteville Street grow and preserve the historic corridor.
North Carolina women reflect on Gloria Steinem's legacy: 'She opened up our eyes'
Gloria Steinem continues to inspire women through her advocacy for equality, independence and opportunity.
As Triangle businesses close, Madame B's Bakery expands 4 years after nearly shutting down
A Raleigh bakery that nearly closed four years ago is opening a second location after community support helped turn the business around.
Raleigh woman chooses homelessness for 48 hours as Wake County leaders share what's working
Shirnetta Harrell's 48-hour experience was about ensuring those living without housing in Wake County are seen and understood.
Rabies alert issued after infected goats visit Durham County events, officials say
State health officials are warning the public after rabid goats from a mobile petting zoo may have exposed people to the virus at events across North Carolina.
Man accused of killing Apex teacher Sheremy Dillard appears in court
Rickey Harper made his first court appearance Friday on the first-degree murder charge.
Women push for greater equality as barriers to jobs, housing and child care persist
More than a century after women won the right to vote, advocates say achieving true equality still means breaking down barriers.
Gun, ammunition found at Durham high school; parents voice concerns on second day of classes
Parents of students at Southern School of Energy and Sustainability are upset after a firearm and ammunition were found on campus.
One last first day: Families say goodbye to Glenwood Elementary School
For generations of students, the first day of school at Chapel Hill's oldest elementary school marked the start of a new year. On Monday, it also marked the beginning of the end.
Extreme heat, drought cut into business at Durham Garden center
Extreme heat and ongoing drought conditions are taking a toll across Durham, with one local garden center already seeing the effects.