ABOUT REGINA BROWN WILSON

For more than a decade, Regina Brown Wilson has been the connective force behind California’s Black-owned news outlets — ensuring they not only survive, but lead. As Executive Director of California Black Media (CBM) since 2012, she oversees a network of more than 30 print, digital, radio, and streaming organizations that inform, educate, and empower African American communities across the state.

Under her leadership, CBM has spearheaded high-impact public information campaigns on voting, health, and emergency preparedness, while syndicating thousands of stories about California’s policy landscape to local publishers. She’s also worked to ensure independent newsrooms receive their fair share of state outreach and advertising resources, breaking ground for equity in media spending.

Wilson’s impact extends beyond the Black press. She co-convenes a statewide coalition of Black, Latino, Asian, Pacific Islander, and Native American publishers — a model for collaboration in an increasingly fragmented media landscape. She’s also served as an advisor in state government, a commissioner for California’s 2020 Census Complete Count Committee, and currently co-chairs Governor Gavin Newsom’s Minority-Owned Small Business Task Force.

At the heart of her work is a simple conviction: when communities control their narratives, they control their destinies. Wilson’s advocacy continues to secure space for Black media in California’s democracy — ensuring that the stories of our people are told, preserved, and protected for generations to come.

ON LEADERSHIP AND INFLUENCE

What does “Black Power and Influence” mean to you?
To me, power and influence as a Black leader in Sacramento means being transparent, showing up for the community—even if you are the only one in the room—and doing what’s right when no one is watching. It’s about consistency, integrity, and building trust over time.

Leadership Lesson:
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned in leadership is the power of listening. True leadership means hearing perspectives different from your own and valuing the voices of others. Presence and persistence build trust — and trust is the foundation of effective leadership.

Who inspires you most and why?
My parents, Hardy and Cheryl Brown. I didn’t fully appreciate their influence until later in life. Their example of service and steadfastness continues to guide me.

What are the biggest opportunities you see for Sacramento’s Black community in the years ahead?
The future holds extraordinary opportunities — from increasing homeownership to expanding small businesses, especially in the farm-to-fork economy. Beyond economics, we have the chance to strengthen cultural influence, grow civic leadership, and build institutions that reflect our values. When we remain consistent, collaborative, and bold, the potential for Sacramento’s Black community is limitless.

ON EVERYDAY LIFE

Song/Artist On Repeat: Anthony Brown, Fred Hammond, and John P. Kee.

Recharge Ritual: Rest — real rest.

Weekend in Sacramento: With my daughter Kennedy, son-in-law Kyle, and my granddog Honey.

Hidden Passion: I love home remodeling and design.

We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to our “Onyx 25” sponsors for their generous support: