Kaya Dantzler

About Kaya Dantzler

Kaya Dantzler is a seasoned Social Impact Strategist dedicated to driving social change and fostering cultural vibrancy. With extensive experience in the nonprofit and civic sectors, she excels in building strategic partnerships, developing culturally relevant programs, and mobilizing diverse stakeholders through effective communication, egagement and outreach strategies. At Color of Change, Kaya mobilized over volunteers for national racial justice campaigns, resulting in increased awareness and significant policy changes. She helped launch We Love Leimert, a cultural revitalization initiative celebrating Black Los Angeles, notably Leimert Park, in partnership with KAOS Networkz and LA Commons, which led to enhanced community engagement and visibility for local artists. In 2024, she was one of five delegates selected by LA Mayor Karen Bass\' Office to travel to Japan for the African American Business Leader Kakehashi Delegate program, a citizen diplomacy initiative, highlighting her commitment to cross-cultural understanding and international collaboration. Kaya is passionate about arts, culture, and social justice and is committed to building bridges across communities. She is always eager to collaborate on social and community impact initiatives in her hometown of Los Angeles, using her expertise to create a more just and equitable city and world through culturally relevant initiatives and community-driven solutions.

Experience

1. Director of Community Engagement

   Community Labs

   Sep 2025 — Present · Los Angeles, CA, US

   As Director of Community Engagement at Community Labs, I lead the community partnerships, cultural strategy, and engagement frameworks that guide our place-based development work in Leimert Park Village. I work closely with residents, small business owners, civic partners, and cultural institutions to strengthen local economic ecosystems, advance equitable development, and support initiatives like the Small Business Catalyst Fund that expand opportunity for legacy and emerging entrepreneurs. My role centers community voice, cultural integrity, and long-term resilience—ensuring our investments align with the lived realities and aspirations of the people who anchor this neighborhood.

Education

• University of the Pacific

  Bachelor of Arts - BA