https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85661148472?pwd=yeORLg4UFsuUedo1O9GDsG7kUZ5fCK.1
Description
In this episode, we take a deep dive into the transformative role of Black and diverse leaders in local politics and community organizations. Our presenters, Tawonda Burks and Walé Elegbede, will share their journeys, the unique challenges they face, and the powerful ways they are driving positive change. Tune in to learn how these leaders are making a lasting impact in Rochester, and how their stories can inspire future generations to get involved, speak up, and lead.
OUR PRESENTERS
Tawonda Burks
Entrepreneur/Owner, ELOCINA, LLC
Tawonda is a passionate entrepreneur and leader of ELOCINA and the Minority Owned Business Foundation. Since 2012, she’s been dedicated to helping small businesses succeed through management, consulting, and educational services. With a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Master of Business Administration, and a doctoral degree in Educational Leadership underway, Tawonda blends academic knowledge with real-world experience.
Her commitment to community runs deep, reflected in her active involvement on multiple boards and her drive for continuous growth. She values meaningful connections, staying engaged with business trends and fostering spaces where entrepreneurs can collaborate and thrive. At her core, Tawonda is on a mission to promote financial literacy, giving people the tools and knowledge to make confident economic decisions.
Tawonda also serves as the Owner and Publisher of Rochester Women’s Magazine
Walé Elegbede
President, Rochester NAACP
Walé Elegbede is President of the Rochester Branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), where he is focused on ensuring social justice, equity, inclusion, diversity, and civil rights is achieved by advancing the strategic focus areas of Health Equity, Education, Economic Stability, Public Safety, Voting Rights, and Youth Engagement.
He is an internationally recognized TED Talk & Motivational Speaker, Rada Distinguished Alumni of the University of Wisconsin La-Crosse, and thought leader on leadership, community, social justice issues, diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) and strategy execution. He is also the 2024 recipient of the Mayo Clinic DLMP Innovation and Leadership in Education Award.
The Equity Series is free to view.
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About the Equity Alliance Equity Series
The Equity Alliance Equity Series is a monthly seminar sponsored by Destination Medical Center and the City of Rochester. The purpose is to introduce diversity, equity, and inclusion best practices, build sustainable DEI community strategies, and build advocacy and allyship within the Rochester community. The series is held virtually on the second Wednesday of every month at noon.