Yolanda Pierson, owner of Pierson & Sons Trucking, has been named president and CEO of the Minnesota Black Chamber of Commerce, bringing more than 25 years of executive leadership experience to the role.
“It’s about building relationships,” Pierson said. “People forget that every step you take has been taken before. I’m just a bridge and connector here in the Twin Cities.”
Pierson, who holds a doctorate and a master’s degree in business administration, has helped run her family-owned, Minneapolis-based trucking company for years.
“Yolanda brings a powerful combination of enthusiasm, experience, and vision,” said MBCC Board Chair Drinal Foster. “Her leadership will be instrumental as we expand opportunities for entrepreneurs and business owners across Minnesota and drive sustainable, long-term economic success for our community.”
Founded in 2004, the Minnesota Black Chamber of Commerce works to empower Black-owned businesses in the state through education, advocacy, and economic development. The organization provides resources, networking, business accelerators, and micro-grants aimed at creating equitable growth opportunities.
“We are more than a membership organization,” Pierson said. “We’re a hub where Black business owners, community leaders, and partners can find trusted information. Right now, we’re focused on being a stabilizing force: listening, connecting, and sharing resources to help businesses navigate.”
Pierson said the need for support has become especially evident following recent unrest in Minneapolis, including the ICE shooting of Renee Nicole Good on Jan. 7.
“There is concern, grief, uncertainty, and fatigue across our communities,” she said. “That’s where the chamber needs to act as stewards of our community, ensuring we show up when people need us.”
Pierson has led by example. On Martin Luther King Jr. Day, she partnered with fellow Black business owner Sheletta Brundidge of ShelettaMakesADifference.org (SheMAD) to organize the Black Women’s Day of Service. The effort delivered $13,000 in cash and 700 pieces of bedding to Tubman Center East, a Minneapolis shelter for victims of domestic abuse, using a dump truck from Pierson & Sons Trucking.
“This was about meeting an immediate need in our community,” Pierson said.
Pierson said she also plans to focus on mentorship, representation, and connecting young people to entrepreneurship and business ownership.
“You see it, you can be it,” she said. “We want young people to look at the chamber and know that if someone like me did it, they can do it too.”
She encouraged Black business owners, both new and experienced, to learn more about the chamber and get involved.
“We’re reimagining the Black Chamber,” Pierson said. “Whether you’re thinking of starting a business or have been a business owner for years, we’re going to be the hub for you.”
For more information, visit https://minnesotablackchamber.org.