Jolisa Brooks

Background

About Jolisa Brooks

Global changemaker and executive leader with over a decade of experience advancing equity, sustainability, and community resilience across public, philanthropic, and private sectors. As a former U.S. Diplomat and Senior Policy Advisor, I’ve led high-stakes foreign policy initiatives, managed billion-dollar development portfolios, and built partnerships across 30+ countries to drive transformative outcomes in climate action, food security, public health, and inclusive economic development. In parallel, I’ve spent over 15 years consulting for place-based nonprofits in cities like Detroit, D.C, Philadelphia, and Houston—strengthening organizational capacity, leading strategic planning, and co-designing community-centered solutions. My work has consistently centered those most impacted by systemic inequities, with a deep commitment to investing in local leaders and building resilient, thriving communities. I bring cross-cutting expertise in strategic planning, systems change, and organizational transformation—along with a proven record of managing complex, cross-functional teams and multi-sector partnerships. I’m also a seasoned DEI practitioner, having led the development of institutional accountability mechanisms, facilitated global anti-racism and environmental justice workshops, and co-created a fellowship program for diverse emerging leaders. Whether advising governments, managing philanthropic investments, or collaborating with grassroots movements, I lead with authenticity, vision, and an unwavering belief in the power of community-driven change.