Kent, WA – May 2025 — The Kent Black Action Commission (KBAC), a leading civic organization committed to advancing equity and social justice, has officially launched a dynamic new program series titled “Voices of Triumph: Stories of Resilience in Our Community.” This powerful initiative is designed to celebrate the remarkable journeys, lived experiences, and contributions of Black and African American individuals throughout King County.
As part of KBAC’s ongoing mission to uplift and empower historically marginalized communities, the new series will feature exclusive video interviews that spotlight personal stories of overcoming adversity, building legacy, and leading transformative change within families, neighborhoods, and institutions. The series will showcase a diverse array of individuals including community leaders, entrepreneurs, youth advocates, educators, artists, health professionals, and elders whose lives embody courage, leadership, and resilience.
“These are not just stories of survival — they are stories of victory,” said Gwen Allen-Carston, Executive Director of KBAC. “Our community is rich with untold narratives that deserve to be seen and heard. Through this series, we are preserving cultural memory while honoring the strength and perseverance that define Black excellence in King County.”
Each video segment will be professionally produced and distributed across KBAC’s digital platforms, including its official website, YouTube channel, and social media accounts. New episodes will be released monthly, creating consistent community engagement and providing inspiration to audiences of all ages. The interviews will explore themes such as intergenerational wisdom, civic leadership, business innovation, mental wellness, education equity, faith, and community building.
In addition to its digital storytelling, KBAC plans to host a series of community forums, live panels, and storytelling roundtables throughout the year, offering residents the opportunity to engage in dialogue, reflect on shared experiences, and strengthen community bonds. These events will be designed to foster healing, empowerment, and intergenerational connection, reinforcing the idea that storytelling is a vital tool for advocacy and cultural preservation.
The “Voices of Triumph” series arrives at a time when storytelling has become an essential platform for visibility, justice, and systemic change. By highlighting the real stories behind the statistics, KBAC aims to humanize the challenges faced by the Black community while celebrating its unwavering spirit.
Nominations Now Open
KBAC is currently inviting the public to nominate individuals whose stories exemplify resilience, leadership, and community impact. Nominees may include unsung heroes, legacy builders, young change-makers, and those who have overcome personal or systemic barriers to make a positive difference in King County.
“We want to ensure that this series reflects the full breadth of our community — from everyday heroes to extraordinary leaders,” said Allen-Carston. “Whether someone has impacted one life or thousands, their story matters.”
Community members can submit nominations or learn more about the series by visiting www.kentblackactioncommission.org.
About Kent Black Action Commission
Founded with the vision to address systemic inequalities and improve the quality of life for African Americans in South King County, the Kent Black Action Commission has become a trusted voice in civic advocacy, policy engagement, youth leadership development, and community empowerment. Through strategic partnerships, public forums, cultural programming, and education, KBAC continues to lead efforts that promote equity, justice, and opportunity for all.
