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Who is Daunasia Yancey?
Daunasia Yancey (she/her) is a Black queer femme leader who has been organizing for justice since childhood—starting the first Gay-Straight Alliance in a Massachusetts public middle school. She founded the Boston chapter of the Black Lives Matter Grassroots Network in 2014, leading mass mobilizations and policy advocacy for Black communities.
She is also the founder of The Rest Rail, a wellness organization providing cost-free vacations to BIPOC organizers, and Pay A Black Woman, rooted in economic justice and visibility. Daunasia also traveled to Rio de Janeiro to spotlight anti-Black state violence ahead of the Olympic Games.
Today, she serves as Deputy Director of the Mayor’s Office of LGBTQIA2S+ Advancement in Boston, working to empower, protect, and uplift LGBTQIA2S+ residents citywide.
Speaking Topics & Trainings
Keynote & Speaking Topics
Daunasia is a dynamic speaker who draws from her personal experiences and communication expertise to connect with diverse audiences.
People-Centered Leadership
Sustaining Justice Work
Youth Power & Inclusion
Workshops & Trainings
People-centered trainings designed to help individuals reconnect with their values and support organizational alignment.
Address barriers to equity and inclusion
Strengthen inclusive leadership and communication
Apply DEI strategies to workplace culture and practices
Inclusive Workplaces
Drawing from her work with a range of organizations, Daunasia helps strengthen equity, improve communication, and build cultures of inclusion and belonging.
Voice Development
Learn to use vocal tone, pacing, and clarity to engage audiences and deliver messages with impact.
Storytelling Techniques
Craft compelling narratives that connect with your audience, communicate your message, and leave a lasting impression.
Stage Presence & Confidence-Building
Build the presence, posture, and mindset needed to command attention and speak with authority—whether on stage or in the boardroom.
Setting Appropriate Speaking Rates
Understand how to value your time and expertise
Executive Coaching
For executive leaders seeking to inspire their teams, recommit to their mission, and lead with clarity and authenticity.
Includes:
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Voice and presence development
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Storytelling as a leadership tool
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Confidence-building in challenging settings
Awards
Youth Courage Award, Collin Higgins Foundation
Fueling the Frontlines Award, Astraea Lesbian Foundation for Justice
Audre Lorde Founder’s Award, Hispanic Black Gay Coalition
Fenway Health
Trailblazer Award
Stories Inspiring Movement Award
REEP/ACE Award
