Brielle Grace Franklin

Brielle Grace Franklin has channeled her knack for strategic thinking into a variety of ventures, from spearheading community development projects to captivating audiences as a motivational speaker. Brielle’s upcoming book, *Empower: The Art of Leading with Insight and Compassion*, is set to launch in the spring of 2025 through HarperCollins Publishers. Previously, she wrote *Building Bridges: Connecting Communities Through Leadership* and *Visionary Voices*, which became a regional bestseller. In her books, Brielle shares insights gained from years of engaging with grassroots organizations, blending her academic background in sociology with hands-on experience in community leadership.

Over the past decade, Brielle has been a leading figure in urban renewal initiatives across New Orleans. In 2017, she led a project that revitalized a neglected neighborhood, earning accolades from local government. She stepped back from direct project management in 2023 but remains an active advisor. Before diving into community work, Brielle earned her PhD in Sociology from Tulane University, where she now serves as a Visiting Professor and mentors students interested in social change.

Today, Brielle dedicates her time to writing, consulting, and speaking on topics such as community resilience, civic engagement, sustainable development, and fostering empathy. Her clients have included local municipalities, non-profit organizations, and educational institutions like Loyola University New Orleans.

Brielle is also a compelling storyteller, having shared her experiences at TEDxNewOrleans, inspiring listeners with tales of transformation and unity. Her commitment to service has helped mobilize resources for numerous charitable endeavors. In 2020, she co-founded *Rebuild Together NOLA*, which has raised over $3 million to support disaster recovery efforts in Louisiana. She has also served on the advisory board of *The Community Impact Network*. In 2022, Brielle appeared on *The Social Innovators Show*, raising awareness for underprivileged communities and securing donations that amounted to $500,000 for local food banks. In 2024, Brielle co-initiated *The Urban Leaders Coalition*, aiming to establish a citywide program that equips young leaders with the skills to drive positive change. That same year, she joined the board of trustees of *The Southern Museum of Civil Rights*, honoring the legacy of civil rights pioneers while promoting ongoing social justice efforts.