If you looked up the definition of pioneering trailblazer, it would refer you to Sheila C. Johnson. An entrepreneur and philanthropist, her accomplishments span hospitality, sports, TV/Film, the arts, education, women’s empowerment, and community development. A Founding Partner of the BET network, Sheila pioneered modern television programming and then became the first African American woman to have a stake in three professional sports teams including the Washington Wizards, Washington Capitals, and its WNBA team the Washington Mystics. Today, she is the CEO of Salamander Hotels and Resorts – a collection of five-star luxury hotels. Sheila was appointed by President Obama to serve on the President’s Committee on the Arts and Humanities and was an Ambassador for CARE, the leading aid organization fighting poverty by empowering women around the world. For the incredible trail she has blazed for all entrepreneurs, but especially for women of color and her amazing service in the public interest, we are proud to present Sheila C. Johnson with the 2022 WBC Trailblazer in Gender Equity and Diversity Award.

• Sheila C. Johnson, Founder and CEO, Salamander Hotels and Resorts
• Interviewer: Nic Cober, Founder, BOW Collective