Unfiltered with
Join FunTimes Magazine as we embark on a captivating journey, delving deep into the lives of the trailblazers and visionaries shaping the African diaspora community in Philadelphia and beyond! Get ready to be inspired as we bring you exclusive interviews with the movers and shakers who are leaving an indelible mark on their respective fields.
Tracie Powell's journey offers invaluable lessons for people of color aspiring to make their mark in journalism and beyond. Her career evolved towards philanthropy and supporting racial equity in journalism. She wrote the white paper that created the Racial Equity and Journalism Fund, supporting publishers of color.
Shawn Mooring, the Head of Philadelphia Programs at the Lenfest Institute for Journalism, began his journey in West Philadelphia, where the city’s vibrant culture and complex challenges molded his early world view. His career path, initially divergent from journalism, was focused on philanthropy and non-profit strategic planning. These experiences equipped him with a unique perspective that he would later bring to the journalistic realm.
Hon. Chris Chaplin's work, embodying a blend of service, leadership, and advocacy, inspires and impacts the lives of many in Philadelphia's African and Caribbean communities. Chaplin's career is a study of adaptability and a drive to make significant impacts in various sectors.
Pastor Justina Knuckles Sergeon’s journey of faith and perseverance is a narrative that transcends borders, wars, and personal trials. Born in Liberia and thrust into the throes of civil unrest at a young age, Justina and her family fled their homeland due to the civil war, settling in the United States in 1994. This migration began a new chapter in her life that would see her evolve from a refugee to a beacon of hope and spiritual leadership within the Lutheran Church.
Jim Friedlich, Executive Director and CEO of The Lenfest Institute for Journalism, shares insights on journalism's evolving landscape, the intersection of artificial intelligence and media, and the importance of news philanthropy. The Lenfest Institute is a Philadelphia-based non-profit organization dedicated to the support of sustainable, high-quality local journalism nationwide.
As the first African-American Chair of the Pennsylvania Democratic Party, Senator Sharif Street stands at the forefront of a new political era. He envisions a Pennsylvania that thrives on unity, diversity, and equitable progress. Under his leadership, the Democratic Party is poised to continue expanding its influence by listening to and representing the broad spectrum of voices statewide.
Omar Sabir’s tenure as the Chairman of the Philadelphia City Commissioners has been to focus on combating voter apathy and ensuring transparent, secure, and inclusive elections. His grassroots origins and unwavering commitment to community engagement have made him a trusted public official fervent about voter education so that all registered Philadelphians could express themselves by letting their voice is heard.
Cira Toure is a dedicated case manager and health navigator at the African Family Health Organization (AFAHO), based in Southwest Philadelphia. It’s a role that she has held since August 2022. Her work focuses on assisting African and Caribbean immigrants, both documented and undocumented, in the Greater Philadelphia area. She helps them in accessing essential services such as healthcare, social support, and education. As an African immigrant, Cira brings a deep understanding and personal commitment to her work shaped by her journey and multicultural background.
Dr. Marsha Brown Woodard’s life has been dedicated to service, education, and leadership. As the president of the Baptist Pastors and Ministers Conference of Philadelphia and vicinity, Dr. Woodard is the first woman to hold this position. She also uses her platform to shape the future of faith leadership. Her story is an inspiring example of how individuals can contribute to society through service and mentorship.
The Hon. Chad Dion Lassiter, a Philadelphia native and Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC), has dedicated his life to civil rights and social justice. From his formative years in South Central Los Angeles to his academic achievements and leadership roles, Lassiter’s journey has shaped him into a voice of reason in a polarized world. In an exclusive interview, he shared his views on racial marginalization, systemic inequities, and the intersections of race and class in American politics.
The Rev. Michael Robinson is a man who rose from the depths of addiction to become a beacon of hope in Philadelphia. He has spent decades altering lives in his role at Temple University as the Director of Community Outreach and Hiring and on the pulpit of Greater Enon Missionary Baptist Church in North Philly. His journey is raw, unvarnished, and entirely relatable. This is a story of brokenness, recovery, and the profound impact of service.
Dr. James Smith Jr., a native of West Philadelphia, has built a career inspiring individuals to embrace their authenticity and overcome challenges. Known as the “Presentation Skills Doctor,” he has traveled to over 30 countries, authored three books, and empowered countless professionals through his insights. Yet his journey was not without hurdles, making his story one of resilience and transformation.
Aminata Sy’s journey is a story of persistence, balancing responsibilities, and educational achievement. Her path from being a high school dropout in Senegal to becoming a U.S. diplomat is marked by challenges, learning, and unwavering determination. She has spent 17 distinguished years in international affairs, education, entrepreneurship, and journalism.
“Entrepreneurship is like a construction project—it never finishes on time, and it always costs more than the estimate,” says Ade Lawal. After years of running a staffing firm, he’s learned that financial discipline and adaptability are keys to long-term success.
In Upper Darby’s 237-year history, no person of color had ever held the mayor’s office, until now. Edward Brown made history in 2024 as the township’s first Black mayor. This role is more than a title, it is a responsibility he carries with urgency, conviction, and a relentless drive to serve. “Leadership is service,” Brown says. “You don’t lead by talking—you lead by doing.” That belief has shaped his entire career, from his early days as a school volunteer to his current role leading Pennsylvania’s sixth-largest municipality. His journey is one of persistence, community commitment, and an unshakable work ethic.
Harold T. Epps, a seasoned business leader and former Director of Commerce for the City of Philadelphia, has dedicated his career to fostering economic growth and championing diversity. With over four decades of corporate experience, Epps has orchestrated policies to uplift marginalized communities and promote inclusive prosperity. He sees a world of potential on the path to equity. Over a spotless career, Epps has amassed an iron-clad record of positioning organizations for sustained growth, improving efficiency, and creating innovative practices and strategies.
In the world of strategic communication, advocacy, and community engagement, David W. Brown has carved out a legacy built on action, integrity, and a relentless commitment to uplifting others. Whether in the classroom, the boardroom, or the streets of Philadelphia, his presence is one of impact. He is not just an educator—he is a bridge builder, a truth seeker, and a fighter for justice.
Brown serves as Assistant Dean for Community and Communication at Temple University’s Klein College of Media and Communication. He also leads the Civic Coalition to Save Lives, a gun violence prevention initiative working to address one of Philadelphia’s most pressing crises. His story is one of purpose shaped by experience, faith, and an unshakable belief in the power of service.
Michelle Baldwin’s journey in the grocery and specialty food industry is a testament to adaptability, leadership, and a passion for food. From her early days in ShopRite’s bakery to managing Di Bruno Bros. in Ardmore, she has honed a skill set that balances operational efficiency with a deep understanding of customer engagement. Her story is not just about career progression; it’s about embracing change, mastering new challenges, and building connections through food.
In a world media landscape dominated by conglomerates, Irv Randolph stands as a pillar of independent Black journalism. As the Managing Editor of The Philadelphia Tribune, the United States’ oldest continuously published Black newspaper, Randolph has spent over 30 years ensuring that African-American communities are not just represented but accurately and powerfully heard.
Jos Duncan-Asé believes in the power of love. Not just as an emotion, but as a force to reshape storytelling, amplify marginalized voices, and challenge the media’s traditional narratives. As the founder and CEO of Love Now Media, she has built a media company that prioritizes “empathy-driven journalism,” moving beyond trauma-filled news cycles, to positive narratives that inspire action and love.
When the Rev. Carolyn Cavaness stepped into the pulpit as the first female pastor of Mother Bethel African American Methodist Episcopal Church, she marked a historic shift for the 237-year-old institution, one of the United States’ oldest churches. Yet, for Cavaness, making history is just the beginning: “Yes, it’s great to make history, but what’s going to be my contribution?” she asks, embracing her role.
Oliver St. Clair Franklin, CBE, is a multi-talented figure whose leadership spans diplomacy, cultural advocacy, economic advancement, and global engagement. Through personal experience, institutional influence, and historical knowledge, he brings a vision of how Black communities can think globally and act with purpose.
Dr. Pamela Kennebrew, is redefining what leadership looks like in health, education, and community healing. As Chair of the Human Services Department at Lincoln University and President-Elect of the Delaware Valley Association of Black Psychologists, her work intersects economic justice, adult education, mental health, and Black women’s wellness.
Malik Majeed did not inherit a leadership role. He earned it. Through relentless work, he moved from his job as a security guard and student to an attorney, then to the top as CEO of one of the largest minority-owned firms in the Philadelphia region, PRWT Services, Inc. “I just put my head down and worked my butt off,” Majeed said plainly. “And lo and behold, I was in a leadership position in a proud minority owned business institution.”
Tiffany Spraggins-Payne’s journey as a leader in Philadelphia’s small-business community is deeply rooted in her deep commitment to empowering others. As the Director of the Power Up Your Business program at the Community College of Philadelphia, Spraggins-Payne works to provide the resources, mentorship, and connections to diverse, minority, and women entrepreneurs.
Renee Sterling did not plan to stay for more than two years when she left Miami for London in 2008. She saw it as a stepping stone opportunity when she was awarded a yearlong City fellowship to work for Goldman Sachs in the City of London. Seventeen years later, she is still there, now as the Executive Director and Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) Regulatory Controller and International Data Controller at Wells Fargo. Her stellar career has spanned two continents and multiple financial cycles, but her values have remained constant.
“If you’d asked me 10 years ago if I’d be in politics, I would’ve said ‘No.’ My goal was to be a dean by 40,” remembers Dr. Monica Taylor.
Dr. Taylor’s path to public service had many detours and certainly wasn’t planned. It was sparked by a need. Today, as Chair of the Delaware County Council, she leads with a rare combination of academic rigor, maternal instinct, and a deep-rooted commitment to the public good. As the first African American elected to this role, Dr. Taylor represents more than 575,000 residents across 49 municipalities. Her leadership is reshaping and reimagining what inclusive and accessible governance looks like in Pennsylvania.
Renee Sterling did not plan to stay for more than two years when she left Miami for London in 2008. She saw it as a stepping stone opportunity when she was awarded a yearlong City fellowship to work for Goldman Sachs in the City of London. Seventeen years later, she is still there, now as the Executive Director and Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) Regulatory Controller and International Data Controller at Wells Fargo. Her stellar career has spanned two continents and multiple financial cycles, but her values have remained constant.
