LAVANDA BROWN
Executive Director
​YWCA.GC

LaVanda Brown works hard every day to empower women and eliminate racism: YWCA.GC's dual mission. While honoring its historic legacy with programs like its annual MLK Celebration, she has also transformed the nonprofit with a series of highly effective programs like #WhatWomenBring, honoring South Carolina's women in business, community, and culture; WE 360° for women entrepreneurs of color; Racial Equity & Inclusion workshops; and Y Girls Code technology clubs to increase opportunities for girls of color. Along with other recognition, she has been featured in the Philanthropy Journal.

NATALIE A. HAM
​County Attorney
Charleston County Council

An advocate for breaking through glass ceilings and kicking down walls and doors in a way that leaves the door open for others to follow, Natalie is chief counsel for Charleston County Council. As general counsel for Charleston County School District, her prior role, she was featured by Vanguard magazine for her work to turn the tide of systemic racism there, and has been named one of the National Black Lawyers Top 100. She serves as bylaws chair for Jack and Jill of America’s Charleston chapter, on the board of the Charleston Symphony Orchestra, and on the SC Judicial Qualifications Committee for the SC Bar, among other roles. She holds a bachelor’s, master’s, and JD degree from the University of South Carolina.