Leilani Downer

Background

About Leilani Downer

I'm a storyteller who works in two worlds: the entertainment industry and the nonprofit sector. As a writer, I’ve created content for iconic TV shows like A Different World and The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, collaborated with major studios and networks (ABC, NBC, FOX, Warner Brothers, Hallmark, Netflix), and written everything from stand-up comedy to ghostwritten novels and feature films. I also teach graduate students the art of writing half-hour comedy at Asbury University. At the same time, I serve as Senior Director of Advancement and Communications at New Horizons, where I lead strategic messaging, brand storytelling, and content creation that amplifies our mission and deepens impact. It’s a role that lets me use my creative background in service of real-world change—something I’m deeply passionate about. I wear both hats—writer and communications leader—with equal dedication. Whether I’m in a writers' room or crafting a nonprofit campaign, I’m driven by the same core belief: stories have the power to connect, inspire, and move people to action.