About BLAC.
BLAC is a movement dedicated to empowering Black and underserved communities by strengthening identity, building meaningful skills, and creating opportunities that drive economic growth, leadership, and ownership.
“Reclaim the mind. Rebuild the leader. Redefine the standard.”
What’s The Problem?
BLAC fights the psychological and structural barriers created by generations of inequity, exclusion, and systemic injustice that can limit confidence, opportunity, and leadership potential in Black and BIPOC communities.
The Origin
BLAC was birthed in 2020 during the Black Lives Matter movement following the tragic death of George Floyd. Founder TJ Harris, recognized that strong communities begin with strong identities.
The challenge was never a lack of talent or potential. It was the impact of historical and ongoing inequities, limiting narratives, and barriers that influenced how Black and BIPOC communities saw themselves—and how they were often perceived by others.
BLAC was built on a simple belief: ISO—Identity, Skills, and Opportunities. Real change begins by strengthening identity, developing meaningful skills, and creating pathways to leadership and ownership.
We shape change by building positive environments, learning practical skills that create impact, aligning with community, and staying connected to purpose, history, and strengths.
BLAC is the solution: Build the environment. Learn the skills. Align with community. Connect to purpose.
It starts with you and grows through us.
Who We Are:
We’re young leaders of color, fed up with inherited limits. We’re setting a new standard and building what comes next. We refuse to let circumstance define our future or let systems determine our worth. We believe leadership is not given — it is developed through identity, discipline, skills, and action.
We are committed to growing personally, leading professionally, and strengthening our communities. We are not waiting for change to arrive. We are becoming it.
Mission
BLAC exists to advance Black and BIPOC communities by strengthening identity, building skills, and creating opportunities that drive leadership, economic advancement, and lasting impact.
What We Do
We build strong identities, develop leadership and career skills, and connect young people to real opportunities through workshops, specialized curriculum, mentorship, and career partnerships.
Why We Exist
Because we can't wait for change—we are the change. Our communities' future depends on what we build today.
Who We Do It For
Black, minority, first-generation, and ALL leaders rising against the odds.
The Challenge
Too many Black and Brown youth grow up navigating poverty, violence, low expectations, and limited access to opportunity. These challenges can shape identity, confidence, and future outcomes.
The BLAC Solution
BLAC helps young people strengthen their identity, develop leadership and career skills, and access real opportunities through workshops, specialized curriculum, mentorship, and career partnerships.
The Impact
When young people develop a strong sense of identity, gain practical skills, and connect to meaningful opportunities, they are better equipped to lead, achieve economic mobility, and create positive change in their communities. BLAC participants leave with greater confidence, stronger leadership capacity, expanded professional networks, and clearer pathways to education, careers, and long-term success.
Get Involved
Whether you're a student, community member, parent, educator, employer, mentor, or community partner, there is a place for you in the BLAC movement.
Students and Community: Join a program and build the skills, confidence, and connections to achieve your goals.
Mentors: Share your experience and help guide the next generation of leaders.
Partners & Employers: Create opportunities through internships, workshops, sponsorships, and career pathways.
Supporters: Invest in the future by donating, volunteering, or advocating for our work.
Together, we are building a generation of leaders to shift the status quo , forever.
Our Impact
Annually, BLAC serves approximately 500 young leaders, with 89% improving career or academic performance.
Where We Serve
Based in San Diego, BLAC serves communities across California and beyond — focusing on historically Black, minority, and underserved areas.
How It Feels
BLAC is more than a program — it’s a movement, a community and a revolution. Members gain mentorship from top Black and brown executives, leadership certificates, career opportunities, and mental health support— all within a culturally affirming space that celebrates identity and excellence.
Our Partners and Supporters
Partnerships power BLAC’s impact. Together with supporters like U.S. Bank, JP Morgan Chase, Better Business Bureau of San Diego, San Diego Promise Zone, and Live Well San Diego, we’re closing the wealth gap and creating pathways for new Black and BIPOC leaders. Join us—be the change.
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Sign up on our website under our volunteer tab or contact us directly to get involved in our impactful programs.
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Click the "Donate" button on the home page or find "Donate" under the dropdown. Your support fuels our mission to empower young leaders.
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No, BLAC is open to all committed to supporting Black and underrepresented leaders. Diversity is our strength!