Brigette LeBlanc breaks barriers as first woman president of SF African American Chamber of Commerce

by Kevin Epps

The San Francisco African American Chamber of Commerce (SFAACC) is making history as it prepares to inaugurate Brigette Renee LeBlanc, MTA, as its first woman president and CEO. A seasoned global event and meeting specialist, LeBlanc is stepping into this leadership role with a clear and purpose-driven mission: to empower Black entrepreneurs and advocate for economic equity in San Francisco and beyond. 

LeBlanc, a San Francisco native with deep roots in the Bayview Hunters Point District, brings more than 30 years of experience as an entrepreneur, former city commissioner and community advocate. Her academic journey — spanning Lowell High School, Cal State Hayward (now CSU East Bay) and a master’s in Tourism Administration from George Washington University — has shaped her commitment to fostering opportunities for Black-owned businesses. 

“San Francisco’s economy is one of the strongest in the world, yet many Black businesses face barriers to success,” says LeBlanc. “My goal is to ensure that micro and small businesses have access to the resources, networks and capital they need to thrive.

A trailblazer with a vision, LeBlanc’s leadership is driven by her passion for advocacy, entrepreneurship, and mentorship — especially for Black youth and women. Throughout her career, she has often been the first in her field, including as the first Black woman meeting planner for San Francisco City Hall and the first Black woman to lead the Event Management Student Society at George Washington University. “Yes, I am the first, but I will not be the last,” LeBlanc emphasizes. “It’s important to pave the way for others to follow.” 

Her advocacy stems from personal experience. As a small business owner herself, she understands the challenges of financial sustainability, delayed payments and navigating complex funding structures. She is committed to ensuring that entrepreneurs have the tools they need to succeed in an ever-changing economic landscape.

 An historic inauguration event Wednesday, Feb. 5, 4 p.m.

The public is invited to witness history during Black History Month as Brigette Renee LeBlanc takes the oath of office on Wednesday, Feb. 5, 2025, 4:00 p.m., at the Southeast Community Center, 1550 Evans Ave., San Francisco. 

This milestone event will celebrate not only LeBlanc’s achievement but also the ongoing work of SFAACC to uplift and support Black-owned businesses.

Kevin Epps is a Dad, award-winning filmmaker, community activist, author, executive editor of the SF Bay View “National Black Newspaper” and a board member of the SF Bay View Foundation. Reach him at [email protected] or on ig: kevinepps1.

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