PoliticsNY & amNY Metro: The 2025 Black Power Players

Published in: PoliticsNY

In honor of Black History Month, PoliticsNY and amNY Metro are proud to present the 2025 Black Power Players list. From community leaders to elected officials and business executives to entrepreneurs, the 2025 Black Power Players are a first-rate group of individuals who are driving positive change and making a lasting impact across the City and State. We are honored to shine a light on these inspiring leaders across the Black community.

Jocelynne Rainey

President and CEO, Brooklyn Org

Dr. Jocelynne Rainey is a seasoned nonprofit leader and executive with over 25 years of experience. She led the transformation of Brooklyn Org from Brooklyn Community Foundation, creating a more inclusive and accessible model for community philanthropy. As president and CEO, Dr. Rainey has led over $125 million in giving, pioneering participatory grantmaking. Previously, she was a key executive at Brooklyn Navy Yard Development Corporation, driving workforce development and economic growth across multiple sectors.

Who is your biggest inspiration and why?

My greatest inspiration is the drive to dismantle structural racism that has disproportionately affected Black and Brown communities, contributing to the racial wealth gap, and preventing many from achieving the American Dream. I am motivated by the belief that our country would thrive if everyone had equal opportunities to succeed.

Is there a Black-owned business or organization that you would like to spotlight?

I’ve been especially inspired by TechFIN, one of our Brooklyn Org Spark Prize winners this year, led by Nigel Frankson and a remarkable Board of Directors. TechFIN refurbishes computers and distributes them to families in need, helping to close the digital divide. It’s an incredible organization, and you can learn more about their work at wearetechfin.org. This is truly transformational work.

What is the proudest moment in your career so far?

I’ve had many proud moments, but my proudest is the team I’ve built here at Brooklyn Org (BKO). I am incredibly proud of this passionate, hardworking group that deeply cares about racial justice, nonprofits, and Brooklyn communities. I’m also amazed by the caliber of work they produce. Together, we’ve reimagined philanthropy, and none of this would be possible without the dedication and talent of the BKO team.