AFRO Staff Writer
In a city shaped by grit, creativity and resilience, Black women entrepreneurs are redefining what it means to do business in Baltimore. From revitalizing downtown to building new culinary traditions and creative storefronts, these women are transforming their communities through innovation, vision and purpose. Their work reflects a growing movement of local leadership that prioritizes inclusion, equity and economic self-determination.
Shelonda Stokes heads two downtown organizations with a mission to revitalize the city’s core. She serves as president of both the Downtown Partnership of Baltimore and the Downtown Management Authority. Since becoming president in mid-2020 she has increased revenues, oversaw the relocation of 12 state agencies to the central business district and helped spur nearly $7 billion in active and planned development.
Stokes said her identity has shaped both the challenges and responsibilities she’s faced throughout her career…