Sam was named among the 2022 Class of “40 under 40” by the Charlotte Business Journal and recognized as a leader shaping and making a significant impact in the Charlotte. He is a co-founder of the Northwest Community Alliance, a community organizing and activism group. He frequently serves as a board member and volunteer for community-based, nonprofit organizations, including International House of Metrolina, Out Teach, Charlotte Bilingual Preschool, and the City of Charlotte Community Relations Committee (CRC).
Sam earned his Bachelor of Business Administration from Baker College and an MBA from University of Phoenix. In addition, he holds a certificate in Nonprofit Management from Duke University and a certificate in Corporate Citizenship Practice from Boston College. Sam is an active member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
Tell me about your roots and what brought you to Charlotte.
Originally hailing from Monrovia, Liberia, I immigrated to the United States with my sister at a young age due to the eruption of civil conflict in our homeland. We settled in Detroit, MI, where I spent my formative years before relocating to Charlotte in May 2013 for work.
What’s your favorite spot or thing to do here?
In Charlotte, I find comfort and enrichment in the diverse array of attractions and activities available to residents and visitors alike. Among these, I particularly enjoy trying new restaurants, visiting the Harvey B. Gantt Center, Charlotte Museum of History, the county parks network, and experiencing the endless cultural events that enhance the city's charm.
My favorite sanctuary, however, is Pauline Tea-Bar Apothecary. This herbal tea lounge serves as a refuge where I can contemplate and rejuvenate, disconnecting from the uproar of daily life while indulging in healing teas.
Given your work in the philanthropic sector, what do you aspire to do and/or see in the field?
Within the philanthropic sector, I am driven by a vision of innovative solutions to address prevailing social challenges and facilitate upward mobility. In this space, I aspire for heightened collaboration, transparency, and strategic investment in pivotal areas to foster tangible and sustainable positive change within our community.
What’s a book, film or play you that has moved you and you’d recommend to others? Why?
Two books that have moved me over the last several years are White Fragility and Decolonizing Wealth. White Fragility by Robin DiAngelo delves into the nuanced complexities of systemic racism and its pervasive influence on contemporary society. Robin painted a thought-provoking exploration of how white supremacy operates through subtleties and unconscious biases, perpetuating racial inequalities and disenfranchising marginalized communities.
Decolonizing Wealth by Edgar Villanueva offers another compelling narrative that has left a lasting impact on me. In his book, Villanueva critiques the philanthropic sector's complicity in perpetuating colonialist legacies and reinforcing power imbalances. Additionally, Edgar’s book challenges readers to reflect on the inherent contradictions of traditional philanthropy and embrace alternative frameworks that prioritize healing, solidarity, and grassroots leadership.
What’s an achievement or point of pride that most people don't know about you?
While I hold personal growth, resilience, and community contributions as fundamental pillars of significance in my life, there is one aspect that fills me with immense pride—something that’s often veiled from the public eye—fatherhood. As a father, I am entrusted with the responsibility of nurturing a future generation of leaders and change-makers. To me, fatherhood is defined by boundless love, unwavering devotion, and endless wonder. It is a journey that transcends the boundaries of time and space.
