Alabama Black History Maker LaKeda Smith Champions Service

Townsquare Media Tuscaloosa, 92.9 WTUG, Praise 93.3, 105.1 The Block, and the Tuscaloosa Thread, along with 1-800-411PAIN, are proud to present the 2025 Black History Makers of Alabama.

Stillman College proudly highlights the dedication of its aspiring journalists through this article, authored by Kalin Lewis, a passionate Journalism student. This piece stems from a collaboration between Townsquare Media and the college's Department of English, Journalism, and Media Communications, showcasing the skill and talent within its community.

Black History Maker of Alabama – LaKeda Smith

LaKeda Smith is a devoted mentor, leader, and advocate of community service, social responsibility, and youth development.

She serves as the Executive Director of the YMCA-Benjamin Barnes Branch in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. This nonprofit organization is rooted in the community and driven by volunteers. It promotes social connections, youth development, and a healthy lifestyle.

Born and raised in Brent, Alabama, Smith's leadership mentality has been greatly influenced by her small-town upbringing and solid Christian foundation.

"The foundation of serving others requires selflessness, humility, and a desire to know the people you serve," she said.

Her leadership style was founded on her early exposure to community values and the importance of connection. Smith believes that to create a positive influence within the communities she serves, she first needs to establish trust through honest connections.

Smith has always prioritized mentorship and education. She started the FIERCE Girls mentorship program for girls aged 8 to 14 after experiencing her own lack of confidence as a young child.

"I believe relationships to be the most effective tool to create lasting impacts in the lives of children, especially young girls," she said. Over 80 girls have benefited from the program thus far, which has helped them develop self-worth and confidence.

Smith is actively involved in several professional and community groups in addition to her work with the YMCA. She is a member of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC), mentors the Tuscaloosa City Schools through SOAR, and has participated in several youth education summits as a panelist. She has also held the positions of Secretary and Vice President for the West Alabama Chamber of Commerce's nonprofit council.

Her dedication to service has been acknowledged with several honors. Among them are the University of Alabama's Excellence Award for Distinguished Community Engaged Scholar, the City of Tuscaloosa's Outstanding Community Leader award, and other honors for her influential work at the Benjamin Barnes YMCA.

"Giving all glory to God, I’ve been blessed that my professional and personal life blend together," she said. Smith views Black History as a living legacy that endures through her work, rather than merely a reflection of the past.

"Black history is what I do today that will impact the lives of Black people tomorrow."

She said Black History Month is a time to honor those who made the path for change, pay homage to those who suffered, and celebrate advancement and the future. Since the accomplishments of Black leaders and changemakers go well beyond a single month, she thinks that Black History should be celebrated all year round.

Beyond her professional life, Smith is a proud mother to Chaydon Smith and a loving wife to Anthony L. Smith. With the help of her family, she is still dedicated to improving her neighborhood and making a difference that will last for many years.

Townsquare Media Tuscaloosa thanks 1-800-411PAIN for supporting our yearly Black History Makers of Alabama spotlight. "Car Accident? Remember After 911. Call 411. 1-800-411PAIN, that's 1-800-411-7246.

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