Young Professionals Network Will Connect Emerging Professionals and Entrepreneurs with Mentorship, Business Resources, Leadership Development and New Opportunities

GARDEN CITY, N.Y. — August 9, 2026 — The Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc. (LIAACC) is expanding its commitment to economic empowerment and leadership development through the Long Island Young Professionals Network (YPN), an initiative designed to cultivate, connect and empower the next generation of professionals, entrepreneurs and community leaders.

Building upon LIAACC’s longstanding work supporting small businesses, entrepreneurs and professionals throughout the New York metropolitan area, the Young Professionals Network will create opportunities for emerging leaders to establish meaningful relationships with experienced business owners, executives, community leaders and fellow professionals.

The network is designed for young and emerging professionals, as well as individuals who support the mission of developing the next generation of leaders.

“Dwayne is a Financial Services Professional with New York Life helping
families and business owners develop a sound financial strategy. A
Hofstra University graduate with B.A. in Mathematics, Dwayne found his
first passion in the classroom as a high school math teacher with stops
in the Bronx, Brooklyn and Queens over 11 years. During his tenure he
developed an interest in financial literacy after noticing money was the
one thing everyone was going to use as an employee or employer yet, it
wasn’t a topic covered in school beyond Economics class. Dwayne has
spent well over a decade learning about concepts and strategies and
leverages his teaching breakdown to help others develop an
individualized strategy.”

Benefits of Joining the Young Professionals Network

Members will have opportunities to:

• Build a Powerful Professional Network — Connect with entrepreneurs, executives, business owners and professionals throughout Long Island and the greater New York metropolitan area.
• Gain Mentorship and Career Guidance — Learn from established professionals and business leaders who can share experience, insight and practical strategies for advancement.
• Develop Leadership Skills — Participate in programs, committees, workshops and community initiatives that provide opportunities to lead and grow.
• Access Business and Entrepreneurship Resources — Gain exposure to information, workshops and relationships that can help aspiring and existing entrepreneurs build sustainable businesses.
• Increase Professional Visibility — Develop relationships and become more visible within the region’s business and professional community.
• Create Strategic Relationships — Meet potential collaborators, referral partners, employers, clients and mentors.
• Strengthen Community Impact — Participate in initiatives that encourage economic development, civic engagement and service.
• Prepare for the Next Level — Develop the relationships, knowledge and confidence necessary to pursue leadership opportunities in business and the community.

The initiative reflects LIAACC’s broader philosophy that sustainable economic development requires investing not only in today’s businesses but also in the individuals who will lead businesses, institutions and communities tomorrow.

Phil Andrews, President of the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc., said: “The Young Professionals Network gives us an opportunity to intentionally develop the next generation of business and community leaders. Networking is important, but our goal goes beyond exchanging business cards. We want young professionals to gain access to mentors, relationships, information, leadership opportunities and the business ecosystem necessary to move their careers and entrepreneurial goals forward.”

Through networking events, professional-development programs, entrepreneurship education, mentorship opportunities and collaborations with the Chamber’s broader membership, YPN will serve as a bridge between emerging talent and established leadership.

The initiative also provides established business leaders with an opportunity to invest their experience and knowledge in the next generation.

CONNECT. EMPOWER. GROW. LEAD.

Individuals interested in becoming involved with the Long Island Young Professionals Network can learn more through the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc.

Email: Dwayne Wellington, Chair of the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc. Young Professionals Network at: dwaynewellington@liaacc.org