Recognized for his leadership, passion, and infectious desire to promote positive outcomes; Donavan Sterling West has built a reputation as a community developer and activist, entrepreneur, critical thinker, strategic planner, in the Tri-state Philadelphia area and beyond. Living by the mantra, “You DO what you can, with what you have, from where you are!” Donavan is a forward-thinking executive who has dedicated his life to community

empowerment, public affairs and social services. With a spirit of continuous improvement,

having graduated from Penn State University with a Bachelor’s degree in Administration of

Justice and Minority Studies, he earned a Master’s Degree in Organizational Leadership from Eastern University to be better equipped in this pursuit.



Donavan led the African American Chamber of Commerce of Philadelphia, Delaware and New Jersey [AACC] through the impacts of the first six months of this unprecedented pandemic corresponding and caucusing with members of City Counsel, House, Senate and Congress. He engaged with the Asian, Hispanic & LGBTQ chamber in group discussion to send a letter to the Governor outlining common issues while offering solutions to support AACC members. He also built successful partnerships with various organizations including the PA Legislative Black Caucus and the SBA to facilitate an informational town hall with 200+ attendees; DiverseForce and Lendistry to give businesses direct access to PPP loans; providing weekly business updates on local radio stations WURD and 103.9FM and other social media platforms all while managing

to increase AACC membership by 29% during this period. As AACC President, he also partnered with Sen. Vincent Hughes, Rep Jordan Harris, United Bank, PIDC, Commerce Department & WPFSI to walk members through the $100MM Historically Disadvantaged Business Revitalization Grant. He also facilitated events with Congressman Evans, AG Josh Shapiro and the City Controller during this time.



You can check Donavan out on Instagram every Wednesday at 8pm EST - @donavanwest