About BLAC.
BLAC is a Black- and Brown-led movement dismantling the myth of “assumed inferiority” by developing skilled, confident, and economically empowered leaders. We create culturally grounded workshops, career pathways, and community spaces that strengthen identity, leadership, and long-term economic mobility for communities of color.
“Reclaim the mind. Rebuild the leader. Redefine the standard.”
Vision
A world where every leader contributes; free from racial and systemic limitation — confident, capable, and creating sustainable systems that advance society.
Mission
To strengthen Black and underserved communities by dismantling the myth of inferiority tied to skin color—through education, empowerment, and meaningful employment of today’s emerging leaders.
Tired of feeling “less than” everywhere you go? You’re not alone.
Nearly 50% of Black adults report experiencing racism that leads to serious psychological stress.
That kind of pressure affects confidence, decision-making, and how you see yourself.
At BLAC, we help young Black and minority leaders build unwavering confidence, skills, and identities to impact society.
Every month, we educate you with real knowledge, sharpen your leadership skills, and teach you how to walk with purpose and clarity.
We strengthen your mindset, build discipline, and prepare you to elevate your life — and your community.
BLAC develops leaders who know their worth, think with power, and transforms their lives and the lives of others.
What We Do
BLAC wipes out self-doubt and builds positive self-concept in communities of color. We take away the false belief that dark skin is less than and replace it with pride, real education and leadership skills. In short: we turn self-doubt into power. That’s BLAC.
How We Do It
Education and empowerment first — that’s our foundation. We build programs and spaces that uplift, teach confidence and mentor prepared leaders.
Why We Do It
Too many young leaders of color have been conditioned to see themselves as less — BLAC is building systems that erase that doubt and position our leaders to lead and succeed!
Who We Do It For
Black, minority, first-generation, and ALL leaders rising against the odds.
Our Programs
BLAC’s Makeover Program and BLAC Market programs build leaders through three pillars:
Cultural Empowerment – Strengthen identity and pride through culture, confidence, and community.
Leadership Development – Build decision-making, emotional intelligence, and real-world leadership skills.
Economic Empowerment – Prepare and position emerging leaders for career and leadership opportunities.
The Makeover Program equips Black and underserved youth and rising professionals with skills, confidence, and professional presence for career success. It combines coaching, personal branding, and mentorship. The goal: help young leaders show up ready and self-assured.
The BLAC Market prepares rising professionals with free business attire, BLAC signature items, and free haircuts to boost confidence and presence. Through mentorship, networking, and community connections, we open pathways to opportunity and economic independence.
Our Impact
In our first year, BLAC served 521 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 certification, career placement, 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 leaders. Join us—be part of the change.
The Three Most Impactful Systemic Barriers BLAC is Fighting
1. Systemic Conditioning – Generations of messaging that taught Black and Brown inferiority and eroded self-belief.
2. Economic Immobility – Cycles of financial dependence and blocked access to capital and ownership.
3. Community Disenfranchisement – Disconnected neighborhoods, underfunded schools, underinvestment in our communities, and limited collective power.
BLAC breaks these cycles through skill development, leadership training, and economic empowerment—restoring confidence, building wealth, and rebuilding our communities from within.
Get Involved
Whether you’re a rising leader, community advocate, or corporate sponsor, BLAC invites you to join our mission of disrupting the myth of “minority inferiority”. Together, we can create meaningful change, fostering a more inclusive and empowered society. Explore how you can make an impact with BLAC today.
Community Members: Join our leadership programs or mentorship network.
Partners: Hire from BLAC, fund a cohort, or co-host workshops.
Supporters: Donate, volunteer, or attend our community events.
Be a Part of the Revolution
Founder: TJ Harris
Who Is TJ Harris, CEO?
TJ Harris is an award-winning speaker, author, activist, and the visionary Founder of BLAC (Black Leadership Alliance Coalition). Widely recognized as one of San Diego’s leading voices for leadership, equity, and cultural empowerment, he has been honored as Man of the Year by the California State Assembly (2025), Community Activist of the Year by the Blue Heart Foundation, and named among the Top 30 Under 30, 40 Under 40, and the Faces of San Diego for transformational community impact.
With over half a decade of service, TJ leads bold initiatives that fuse cultural identity, mental health, leadership development, and workforce advancement, empowering Black, Brown, first-gen, and underrepresented young professionals to rise with discipline, confidence, and purpose.
His mission is clear: shift perception, unlock potential, and build generational power.
Each year, TJ’s work inspires hundreds to believe in themselves, lead with intention, and become the powerful change their communities have been waiting for.
Be a Part of the Revolution
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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!