Black Chamber of Arizona Names Dr. Velma Trayham as New CEO and President

Nationwide — The Black Chamber of Arizona has named Dr. Velma Trayham as its new Chief Executive Officer and President. Dr. Trayham will be working with the board of directors to carry on the vision for the Chamber, which focusses on empowering and building entrepreneurs.

“I am profoundly honored to step into the CEO role for the Arizona Black Chamber of Commerce at this pivotal moment in our history. Building upon the solid foundation laid by my predecessor, Robin Reed, I am committed to not only continuing his legacy but also to expanding our vision for economic empowerment, inclusivity, and resilience. As we navigate the complexities of today’s economic landscape, I will focus on empowering our members, strengthening public and private collaboration, and building resilient pathways for Black entrepreneurs and businesses across Arizona,” said Dr. Trayham. “Together, we will innovate, advocate, and collaborate to create a thriving ecosystem that celebrates diversity and drives prosperity for all. Our journey ahead is filled with potential, and I am dedicated to harnessing our community’s collective strength and spirit to achieve unprecedented success.”

Voted among the top 30 Enterprising Women, Phoenix Business Journal 2024 outstanding women in business, and honored by the White House with a Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award, Dr. Velma Trayham is an acclaimed author, entrepreneur, motivational speaker, and business strategist. Her diverse background spans marketing and economic development ecosystem building, bridging various sectors like banking, manufacturing, finance, real estate, and faith-based organizations.

Trayham’s hard work and determination have lifted her from being born in poverty to earning her seat at the C-Suite table, recognized globally. Her influence extends to various sectors: Fortune 500 companies, government entities, economic development agencies, small business owners, and minority entrepreneurs.

A champion of entrepreneurship as a powerful tool to alleviate poverty, particularly among underserved communities. Her initiatives have successfully aided over 8,000 small minority-owned businesses to start, scale, and prosper, catalyzing economic growth and creating wider opportunities.

Dr. Trayham is at the forefront of cultivating inclusive business ecosystems that uplift communities and ensure sustainable development. Her passion lies in empowering individuals and effecting transformative change in communities. Through her leadership and advocacy, Dr. Trayham continues to make significant strides in fostering environments where businesses and communities can thrive together.

About the Black Chamber of Arizona
The mission of the Black Chamber of Arizona (BCAZ) is to improve the economic development of business entrepreneurs and the communities we serve. BCAZ serves as the cornerstone for educational training, resource programs, and economic growth opportunities, with a specific emphasis on “business in action.” For additional information, visit BlackChamberAZ.com.

For press inquiries, contact Mark Molzen at mark@blackchamberaz.com or 602-716-3389.