FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Priscilla Clarke
Clarke PR, priscilla@clarkepr.com
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Introducing Brigette Renee LeBlanc, MTA: Trailblazer, Community Advocate, and President and CEO elect of the San Francisco African American Chamber of Commerce
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San Francisco, CA (January 9, 2025)— Brigette Renee LeBlanc, MTA, an accomplished global event and meeting specialist, has made history as the first woman to serve as President and CEO elect formally the Vice Chair of the Board for The San Francisco African American Chamber of Commerce (SFAACC). With her sights set on the presidency of this esteemed organization, Brigette is leveraging her unmatched expertise and decades of advocacy to create meaningful change and amplify the voices of Black entrepreneurs in the San Francisco Bay Area and beyond.
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A proud San Francisco native, Brigette's roots trace back to the vibrant Bayview Hunters Point District. Her educational journey through San Francisco’s public schools—including graduating from Lowell High School—and her advanced degrees in Mass Communications from Cal State Hayward and a Master's in Tourism Administration from George Washington University have laid the groundwork for her remarkable 30-year career as an entrepreneur, former San Francisco Commissioner, and Community Advocate.
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Brigette’s influence spans multiple spheres:
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Business Leadership: As the first Black woman to serve as Event Manager at San Francisco City Hall, Brigette has demonstrated unparalleled leadership in curating impactful events and fostering community connections.
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Community Advocacy: From her tenure as a Commissioner for the Southeast Community Facility to her instrumental roles in helping Gavin Newsom become Mayor in the first election as District 5 liaison with that district having the second highest voter turnout. Brigette’s commitment to empowering underserved communities is unwavering.
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Breaking Barriers: Brigette continues to shatter glass ceilings, LeBlanc served as the First women Vice Chair of the SFAACC Board, sat on the George Davis Senior Board, and was former SF President of Black Women Organized for Political (BWOPA). Currently, LeBlanc sits on the State Board. LeBlanc is also a proud alumnus of EmergeCA class of 2007 and Leadership San Francisco.
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"San Francisco's economic engine is among the most robust globally, with a GDP of $263.1 billion in 2023 and the Bay Area ranking as the fifth largest in the OECD countries," Brigette notes. "The potential for Black-owned businesses to thrive in this dynamic economy is limitless. My mission is to advocate for micro and small businesses, ensuring they have the tools, opportunities, and platforms to succeed. These businesses often face unfair challenges, and I aim to help them be prepared to thrive despite these obstacles."
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"Brigette, as President and CEO elect of SFAACC, is driven by her commitment to advancing economic equity and empowering entrepreneurs. She envisions the chamber as a dynamic hub for innovation, advocacy, and support, with a special focus on uplifting Black youth and women."
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Her story of resilience, determination, and trailblazing leadership inspires individuals and organizations alike.
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About Brigette Renee LeBlanc
Brigette Renee LeBlanc, MTA, is a global event and meeting specialist, entrepreneur, and community advocate. With over three decades of professional experience, she is a transformative leader committed to empowering Black entrepreneurs and advancing equity across the San Francisco Bay Area.
PRESS RELEASE
San Francisco Celebrates Black-Owned Businesses this Black History Month
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Office of Economic and Workforce Development
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Spotlighting Black entrepreneurs and their impact on San Francisco's economy and culture
February 3, 2025
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The Office of Economic and Workforce Development (OEWD) is proud to support initiatives that celebrate the City’s Black entrepreneurs and cultural heritage. This month, the City will celebrate the grand openings of two new Black-owned businesses in the Bayview and Visitacion Valley and launch a webpage (sf.gov/black-history-month) highlighting Black-owned businesses and a calendar of events to inspire residents to support San Francisco’s vibrant Black business community.
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Black History Month is a time to celebrate cultural achievements and spotlight the vital role Black entrepreneurs play in shaping San Francisco’s economy. OEWD has supported hundreds of Black entrepreneurs by providing training, technical assistance, and millions of dollars in business capital.
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“As we celebrate Black History Month, it’s important to recognize the incredible impact of the Dream Keeper Initiative in uplifting the Black community, particularly Black small business owners and entrepreneurs,” stated District 10 Supervisor Shamann Walton. “Over the years, DKI and the Office of Economic and Workforce Development have been catalysts for economic empowerment, offering tailored resources and vital access to capital that have enabled Black entrepreneurs to thrive. By investing in these entrepreneurs, DKI and OEWD have helped level the playing field, equipping them with the tools needed for lasting success and economic growth—empowering the next generation of leaders and changemakers.”
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According to Sarah Dennis Phillips, Executive Director of OEWD, “The diversity of our businesses and their owners are what draws people to our city. By supporting these businesses and celebrating Black history, we’re building a stronger, more inclusive economy for everyone.”
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Visitacion Valley will celebrate the grand opening of a new restaurant and bar at 5 Leland Avenue on February 14 at 6 p.m. 1945 Restaurant Bar and Lounge, founded by LaTonia Grice as an homage to her mother, will serve a locally sourced menu and expertly crafted cocktails. The space was designed with a blend of modern elegance and nostalgic charm, reflecting the spirit of the community and the love that inspired its creation.
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“This vibrant new venue is not just a restaurant; it’s a heartfelt tribute to my mother, who was born in 1945. As a Creole woman of color and a proud minority owner, I am committed to creating a space that reflects the diversity and richness of our community,” said Grice. “I’m deeply grateful to the City for helping turn this dream into reality. This is more than just a restaurant—it’s a meaningful addition to the Vis Valley community, celebrating inclusivity and culture.”
With the support of OEWD, Smoke Soul Kitchen (4618 3rd Street) will host its grand opening in the Bayview on February 15, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., with a ribbon-cutting at 11 a.m. This woman-owned soul food restaurant is partnering and sharing space with the food manufacturing and incubator Bayview Makers Kitchen to offer a menu inspired by Southern and Cajun culinary traditions. The Bayview Makers Kitchen supports other Black-owned restaurants and cafes, including Yvonne’s Southern Sweets and Gumbo Social.
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“I am so happy to join the legacy of entrepreneurs who put on for the City and I am really thrilled to be able to bring something special to y’all,” said Vanessa Lee, owner of Smoke Soul Kitchen. “The space we are in, has served the community for years as a soul food spot, and now the reigns have passed down to me….so y’all know I gotta show out.”
These openings come shortly after the recent debut of Taylor Jay, a renowned Oakland-based fashion brand, in the Powell Street corridor. Owned and operated by San Francisco native Taylor Jay, the brand is celebrated for its sustainable, inclusive, and comfortable apparel for women. The Taylor Jay pop-up at 220 O’Farrell Street marks the first of many planned pop-ups in the Union Square area as part of the Vacant to Vibrant initiative funded by OEWD and administered by the nonprofit SF New Deal.
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“Bringing the Taylor Jay brand to this iconic area is a dream come true,” stated founder Taylor Jay. “I’m excited to share our commitment to sustainability, comfort, and inclusivity with a new audience and create a space where women can feel empowered and celebrated through fashion.”
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The San Francisco African American Chamber of Commerce, which is dedicated to championing the interests and prosperity of African American business owners, is partnering with the NBA Hoops & Heritage Vendor Showcase, February 13-15, from noon-6 p.m. at 45 Powell Street.
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“Black History Month in San Francisco is going to be extra exciting with the NBA All-Star Game in town,” said Brigette LeBlanc, President and CEO-elect of the San Francisco African American Chamber of Commerce. “We are honored to partner with the National Basketball Association to host a vibrant marketplace that highlights the very best of San Francisco’s entrepreneurial and cultural spirit. I want to thank them for joining us to celebrate culture, community, and the inclusivity of micro and small businesses.”
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Through its Shop & Dine webpage, OEWD invites residents and visitors to explore Black-owned businesses, discover unique shopping and dining experiences, and connect with the history and culture of San Francisco’s Black community. Featured experiences include shopping at In The Black Shop, a marketplace rooted in the Fillmore District that empowers and supports Black entrepreneurs.
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“At In The Black, we celebrate and support the brilliance of Black creativity and entrepreneurship, not just during Black History Month, but every day, all year long,” said David Sobel, CEO at SFHDC. Throughout the year, In The Black will be hosting events highlighting the beloved black-owned businesses in the Fillmore and across the City. For a full list of upcoming events, visit intheblackshop.com.
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The City’s Shop Dine SF Black History Month webpage offers a curated list of events hosted by local organizations and nonprofits, ranging from cultural festivals and art exhibitions to educational programs. Throughout February, OEWD will use its social media platforms to spotlight Black-owned businesses, share stories from entrepreneurs, and amplify the voices of community leaders. Each week, a different business will be highlighted, providing a glimpse into the people and places that make San Francisco’s neighborhoods dynamic and unique.
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For more information about Black History Month events and resources, visit sf.gov/black-history-month.