On Juneteenth, San Francisco leaders are being celebrated for their contributions. Dr. Karwanna D. Irving stands out for her work in empowering entrepreneurs to secure government contracts.

“I feel like a vessel to really transform lives with the information that I’m sharing,” said Irving, who runs the consulting and coaching firm She’s Got Goals LLC.

Growing up in Bayview–Hunters Point, Irving saw the struggles of her community and sought a better way for herself and others. “I empower Black and Brown business owners, as well as women entrepreneurs, to grow and scale their businesses and gain economic power in the government contracting space,” she explained.

Her journey began years ago in the video and photography industry. “I was freelancing for a billionaire who told me that government contracts were key to his success,” Irving shared. This inspired her to become a government contracts expert, creating a roadmap for others to follow.

Irving mentors clients through the same blueprint that brought her success and shares free content on YouTube. One of her clients, Remy Jules, executive director of Elect Solutions Consulting, praised her impact: “Not only am I doing contract work in Texas, but I’m now pursuing opportunities in Michigan.”

Irving will receive a visionary leadership award at the Juneteenth Business Awards Banquet of the San Francisco African American Chamber of Commerce. “This is an amazing way to help close the wealth gaps, especially for minority-owned small businesses and women entrepreneurs,” she said.