By Antisia King

Renee Yancy is a passionate Detroit community leader dedicated to service, advocacy, and social change. With over 20 years of experience, she has made a lasting impact in education, youth empowerment, and economic development.
During her 17 years in Chicago, Renee served as president of a local school council for seven years, honing her leadership in program development and community engagement. Upon returning to Detroit, she took on key roles as a board member of the Coleman A. Young Foundation and Code 313, where she helps expand educational and technology opportunities for young leaders.

As the first two-term president of the Detroit Rotary Club in 114 years, Renee led unprecedented growth, adding 28 new members in just nine months. She expanded the Youth Citizen Service Award, increasing high school applicants from 15 to 33, and founded three Interact High School Rotary clubs at Cass Tech, Martin Luther King Jr., and Osborn High School, fostering leadership and civic engagement among students.

Beyond her work with Rotary, Renee has driven impactful initiatives in the corporate sector as HAP Care Connector, spearheading a cultural change initiative within the company. She is also a Henry Ford Health Heart Walk Grand Clubmember, furthering her commitment to community well-being.

A dedicated mentor and advocate, Renee continues to collaborate with local leaders, volunteer with nonprofits, and uplift Detroit’s next generation.

I had the opportunity to ask Renee a few questions, and here’s what she had to say:

BMM: Why did you choose Detroit, and what is your vision for keeping the city moving forward?
Renee: Born and raised in Detroit, I’d say Detroit chose me. My vision for the city is to address the literacy issue, as over 70% of Detroiters between the ages of 18 and 64 do not have a high school diploma. I also aim to increase education on homeownership and promote neighborhood beautification.

BMM: What does Women’s Month mean to you?

Renee: It’s a time to celebrate the greatness of our feminine power and the impact we make in our communities. Referring women from my network is an honor because I know they will bring the change and impact that’s needed.

BMM: What are some of the biggest challenges you see facing women today?
Renee: Gender inequality—women often receive lower pay and fewer advancement opportunities compared to men. Violence and safety—domestic violence and sexual harassment continue to occur at alarming rates. Reproductive rights—why should a woman let a man decide what she can do with her own body? Work-life balance—women often bear the responsibility of managing their households, caring for children, and working, all at the same time. These are just a few of the challenges we face.

BMM: What can we all do to better support the women in our lives and around the world?
Renee: Mentor and support women! Sowing seeds of wisdom, knowledge, and connections into another woman’s life brings blessings to both of us. Supporting women-owned businesses empowers them economically, which in turn enhances the well-being of their families. Engaging in community programs that focus on women's issues is crucial. And we must stand up for women's reproductive rights, ensuring they have the power to make choices about their own bodies.

BMM: How do you empower yourself and the women around you?
Renee: I empower myself by making sure I take time for the things I love—things that bring me peace and joy. Nurturing my own well-being is essential because if I’m depleted, I can’t pour into someone else who may need my mentorship. I truly believe that when we lift each other up, we all rise!

As we continue to push forward, supporting and uplifting one another is key to building a stronger, more empowered community for all women.

Thank you Renee, for your contribution!