2023 40 Under 40: Rebecca Desir of the Black Health Commission

In 2020, she founded the Black Health Commission as a result of her commitment to equity and public health for minorities.

Black Health Commission, since its launch in 2010, has provided digital health education for more than 12,000 people. Since then, Desir, the founder and executive director of Black Health Commission has hosted events like the #ItTakesAVillage community baby shower and the BLK JOY Festival.

Desir will host the BLK JOY festival at Blue Jacket Park, Baldwin Park, in 2022 with the support of the Black Health Commission, its board, and donors. Desir stated that they also received funding through the Contigo Fund to hire a part-time coordinator for our Village Talks program.

Desir, a young professional from the Orlando region, was selected as one of Orlando Business Journal's 40 Under 40 in 2023. OBJ's weekly edition of April 21-27 2023 and online have more information about the class 2023.

What is your biggest business challenge for this year?

It will be difficult to continue to educate about health inequities, and to host events that highlight the community with which we work closely. BLK JOY Festival will grow to attract support and help the community center their mental health as well as connecting them with community tools/resources.

What is your ideal mentor?

Your ultimate career goals:

I would love to be able travel and have an influence on the decision-making of organizations by bridging cultural gaps between organizations and communities.

How can you overcome feelings of doubt?

I try to counter negative self-talk by listening to music.

Are you a traditionalist, a disruptor, or both?

I am a disruptive by nature, and I challenge traditional views.

Every morning drink

Enjoy a hot cup of tea

Order your favorite Central Florida restaurants:

Tori Tori offers blue crab fried rice

Founder/executive director, Black Health Commission