Tarnisha Cliatt

Tarnisha Cliatt serves as President/Founder and CEO of the Manasota Black Chamber of Commerce (MBCC). The MBCC is focused on advancing the interests of its membership and affiliates through advocacy, education, business and economic research, accessing competitive intelligence and forming strategic alliances to maximize opportunities for success. In this position she interacts with businesses across the United States of America. Most recently she Co- Founded and orchestrated the launch of Southeastern Regional Black Chamber of Commerce (SERBCC). Where she consulted with hundreds of businesses/non-profits providing business development planning and technical assistance. Additionally, she assisted over several businesses in acquiring needed capital for start-up and expansion, securing amounts ranging from $25,000 to $1.5 million.

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Previously, Tarnisha Founded and served as President/CEO for Manatee County Black Chamber of Commerce from 2015 – 2017 where she was able to foster and grow the organization to incredible heights. She managed programs for youth in multiple markets and distributed over $400,000 in funding for community impact, outreach and scholarships.

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Born and raised in Tampa, Florida, Tarnisha’s ability to adapt and excel in any environment is exemplified in her proven track record of successes and positive outcomes that she helps individuals discover, plan and execute. As a change agent, she has spent countless hours to master a plan that not only provides a boost to nonprofit organizations, but uplifts those around her including a variety of Chamber of Commerce, youth, community partners and entrepreneurs. Tarnisha currently resides in Bradenton, FL and enjoys reading, traveling, mentoring and vows to continue to allow her passion to drive her. She often heard quoting “If I can help someone as I pass along. If I can cheer someone with a word or a song. If I can show someone he or she is traveling wrong, then my living will not be in vain.” -Rev. Dr. Martin L. King

 

Community Involvement

• Volunteers with Manatee County Branch of the NAACP – Vice President

• Volunteers with Forward Manatee PAC – Steering Committee Member

• Volunteers with State of Florida Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship – State Administrator

• Volunteers with University South Florida Sarasota/Manatee- Diversity Advisory Committee Member

• Volunteer with City of Bradenton Affordable Housing- Advisory Committee Member

• Volunteer with City of Bradenton CCRA- Advisory Committee Member

• Volunteer with Dream Team Foundation- Board of Director

 

Professional Affiliations and Awards
In 2015 Tarnisha was named to the Manatee County Government Financial Advisory Committee. In 2017, she was appointed by the Mayor to the City of Bradenton CCRA board and Affordable Housing Advisory Committee. Along with her most recent appointments to the State of Florida Black Chamber of Commerce and the National Black Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and the State of Florida Black Chamber of Commerce. Tarnisha has been awarded the following recognitions: Sarasota Unity Awardee for her Business Engagement. Manasota Honors, Community Achievement Award, First Community C.O.G.I.C Community Engagement Award, Women’s International Conference “Woman of Light” Award.. In 2017, under her leadership the National Black Chamber of Commerce award the Manasota Black Chamber of Commerce its Chamber of the Year. This was an International recognized award.

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But, Tarnisha’s greatest award is her giving birth to her two beautiful daughters. Amaia, 22 years old and a Senior at the Bethune Cookman University and Raynah 8 years old a second grader and Saint Stephen’s Episcopal School.

 

Education

• General Education, Palmetto High School – 1997

• Certificate in Certified Nursing Assistance, Manatee Technical Institution-1998 Early Childhood Education, Manatee Community College – 2004

• Early Childhood Education, University of South Florida-2006