BLACK LEADERS IN CENTRAL FLORIDA
Written by Orlando Magazine Staff | Principal Photography by Roberto Gonzalez
This month Orlando magazine is spotlighting ten amazing black leaders in Orlando. From Mayor Jerry Demings to Congressman Maxwell Frost, we take a look at their accomplishments, their impact, and their vital roles in Central Florida, but first, let’s step back in time to see where we were just 100 years ago.
Historical images Courtesy Orange County Regional History Center. Right side: Top-left, top-right and bottom | Left side: Bottom-left
Voices in Local Government
Jerry Demings
Orange County Mayor
Jerry Demings has made significant contributions to Orlando, particularly impacting the Black community through his role as Orange County Mayor. Read more…
Voices in Local Philanthropy
Derrick Chubbs
President And CEO, Second Harvest Food Bank Of Central Florida
In 2022, Derrick Chubbs embarked on a mission to reshape the landscape of hunger relief in Central Florida, stepping in as President and CEO of the Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida (SHFB). Read more…
Voices in Law Enforcement
Eric D. Smith
Chief of Police, City of Orlando
In the dynamic cityscape of Orlando, the appointment of Eric D. Smith as the 40th police chief marked a significant chapter in the city’s law enforcement history. Smith’s journey with the Orlando Police Department (OPD) began in 1994, a year following his graduation from the University of Central Florida with a degree in criminal justice. Read more…
Voices in the Community
Angie Gardner
Mayor of Eatonville, Florida
Angie Gardner, a prominent figure in Central Florida, has made a significant impact, particularly in relation to the Black community and the historic town of Eatonville. Read more…
Voices in Finance & Funding
Inez Long
President & CEO, BBIF Florida
In Orlando, a beacon of hope and progress shines in the form of Inez Long, the President/CEO of Black Business Investment Fund (BBIF) Florida. Read more…
Voices in Youth
Maxwell Frost
Congressman, Representing District 10
Congressman Maxwell Frost, representing Orlando, has made significant efforts to engage and mobilize young voters, particularly within the Gen Z demographic. Read more…
Voices in Media
Rich Black
Owner and Publisher of ONYX magazine
Known to many as “The Great Connector,” Rich Black is an accomplished entrepreneur who works tirelessly in his community and has emerged as one of Florida’s most influential leaders. Read more…
Voices en Masse
Geraldine Thompson
Senator, Representing District 15
Geraldine Thompson, a prominent figure in Florida politics, has made significant contributions to Orlando and our Black community. Read more…
Voices in Technology & Medicine
Harold Mills
CEO of VMD Ventures
Harold Mills, a luminary in both the business and community sectors of Central Florida, has significantly impacted the region, particularly within its Black community. Read more…
Voices in Truth
Camara Williams
Attorney & Political Strategist
Camara chose to pen a letter to the Black community in Central Florida. We appreciate his candor and vulnerability.Read his message in full here.
