WASHINGTON, D.C. — The National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) has announced the launch of its 2026 ‘Leadership Matters’ video series, a new initiative designed to spotlight influential leaders across multiple sectors, including government, healthcare and technology.
The series, produced in collaboration with Events DC and PKB Enterprises, features six professionally produced, 30-minute interviews with national figures who are making an impact in their respective fields. The project is supported by several corporate partners and will be distributed across digital, social media and print platforms affiliated with the NNPA.
The NNPA, a nonprofit trade association representing more than 250 African American-owned newspapers and media companies, said the series comes at a pivotal time as the nation approaches the 250th anniversary of the United States and prepares for the 200th anniversary of the Black Press of America in 2027.
According to NNPA President and CEO Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr., the series aims to provide meaningful content that highlights leadership, innovation and community impact while reinforcing the role of the Black Press as a trusted voice in communities across the country.
The ‘Leadership Matters’ series includes interviews with several prominent leaders, including members of Congress, corporate executives and healthcare professionals. Among those featured are U.S. Rep. Gabe Amo of Rhode Island and Dr. Yasmine Wahdan of Bayer, whose interviews will kick off the series.
Additional participants include U.S. Rep. James Clyburn, U.S. Rep. Troy A. Carter of Louisiana, U.S. Rep. Steven Horsford, U.S. Sen. Angela Alsobrooks of Maryland and Maryland Gov. Wes Moore. The series also features corporate and organizational leaders such as Fred Humphries of Microsoft, Rhonda Mims of AmeriHealth Caritas, Mamar Gelaye of Amazon and Dr. Steven Johnson of Events D.C.
The interviews are designed to explore leadership perspectives in areas such as public service, economic opportunity, healthcare access and technological advancement. NNPA officials say the series will be released over a six-week period and will be available on the organization’s website, <BlackPressUSA.com>, as well as through its network of member publications.
The initiative also reflects the NNPA’s ongoing efforts to adapt to changes in the media landscape, as many traditional news outlets face closures and shifting business models. By expanding its multimedia content offerings, the organization aims to strengthen its reach and continue serving African American communities with relevant and informative programming.
Corporate sponsors supporting the series include Amazon, Microsoft, Events D.C., AmeriHealth Caritas, Bayer and PKB Enterprises.
NNPA officials say the ‘Leadership Matters’ series is intended to both inform and inspire audiences by showcasing leaders whose work is shaping communities and driving progress nationwide.
