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.

ILSIA MUÑIZ
DOJ Accredited Representative
Immigrant Connection 

An advocate for the immigrant community with a keen sense of the needs and injustices faced by people of color, Ilsia is authorized by the Department of Justice to act as a legal representative for people in need as they apply to US Citizenship & Immigration Services. She also volunteers her time and expertise to the Latino community by speaking at high schools to inspire Latino students, serving as a dance teacher to young girls at a Latino church, and interpreting sermons at a multicultural church into Spanish each week. Ilsia, who graduated with honors from Clemson University, has been featured by the Hispanic Alliance as one of 30 heroes representing the Latino community. ​