EDITOR’S NOTE: Orlando is often described as a city in motion, but motion alone does not define progress. Leadership does.
Over the last decade, Black leaders across Central Florida have shaped our civic life in ways both visible and profound. They have built institutions, told hard truths, protected communities, expanded access to opportunity, and reimagined what leadership looks like in a modern Southern city. Their work is not confined to one sector or generation; it spans philanthropy, government, finance, law, infrastructure, and inspiration itself.
This story spotlights eight individuals whose voices help define Orlando today, and whose leadership will shape its future.
Voices in Local Philanthropy
Tamra Boone
Development Officer, iDignity
By the time you finish a conversation with Tamra Boone, you understand that her work is not just about fundraising, board service, or civic leadership. It is about people. It is about dignity. And it is about the quiet but powerful belief that when access is expanded, lives change. Read more…
Voices in Healthcare
Latrice N. Stewart, MBA, CMPE
President and Chief Executive Officer, 26Health
For Latrice N. Stewart, leadership is not a title. It is a responsibility. As President and Chief Executive Officer of 26Health, Stewart leads a nonprofit healthcare organization focused on delivering inclusive, affirming, and accessible care to underserved communities. Read more…
Voices in Local Government
Bakari Burns
Orlando City Commissioner, District 6
As Commissioner for Orlando’s District 6, Bakari Burns governs one of the city’s most historic—and rapidly changing—areas. Read more…
Voices in Transportation & Tourism
Lance Lyttle
CEO, Greater Orlando Aviation Authority
For Lance Lyttle, leading one of the nation’s busiest airport systems is about more than logistics. It’s about shaping the future of an entire region. Read more…
Voices in Finance
Candice Simmons
Vice President, Wells Fargo
Candice Simmons believes access to financial knowledge and capital is foundational to generational wealth. As Vice President at Wells Fargo, she helps connect individuals and small businesses—particularly in underserved communities—to financial systems historically out of reach. Read more…
Voices in Law
Coretta Anthony-Smith
Attorney, Anthony-Smith Law, P.A.
Coretta Anthony-Smith approaches the law as both advocate and educator. She works to ensure legal systems are accessible, transparent, and just—particularly for Black Central Floridians. Read more…
Voices in Masse
Maxwell Frost
U.S. Congressman, District 10
As the first Gen Z member of Congress, Maxwell Frost represents a generational shift in leadership. Rooted in Orlando, his advocacy centers on gun violence prevention, social justice, and youth engagement. Read more…
Voices in Local Inspiration
Malcolm Nowlin
Founder and CEO, M. Nowlin Enterprise, LLC
I am Malcolm E. Nowlin, Founder and CEO of M. Nowlin Enterprise, LLC. I serve as an executive and leadership coach, keynote speaker, and advocate focused on resilience, mental and emotional well-being, and purpose-driven leadership. Read more…