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ABOUT US

Founded in 2018, the mission of the Gullah Geechee Chamber of Commerce is to raise global awareness of, profitability and sustainability of African American businesses and other entities supporting the Gullah community. The Gullah Geechee Chamber is a strong advocate for our natural environment and encourages career and business opportunities in green, renewable energy fields.

 

We are passionate about empowering entrepreneurs and small business owners and  our goal is to provide our members with the necessary resources and opportunities to thrive in today's fast-paced business world. We understand the challenges that come with running a business and are committed to supporting our members in every way possible. Join us today and become a part of our strong, supportive business community.

Membership Has Its Benefits...

Join Us

With Gullah Geechee Chamber of Commerce membership, you will have access to the Chamber’s marketing services, Business and Economic Development Opportunities, discounted rate in Vendor Villages @ Signature Events, Select Event Sponsorship Opportunities and advocacy for good public policy benefiting members and our community.

Learn More About Our Advocacy

The advocacy of the Gullah Geechee Chamber of Commerce is embedded in social justice movements of our community, the standards set forth by our ancestors as demonstrated by Esau Jenkins, Robert Smalls, Denmark Vesey, Joseph Hayne Rainey, and others; and the United Nations 17 Sustainable Development goals.

We're All About Advocacy

Your Chamber President

Marilyn L. Hemingway

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CEO/President and Founder of the Gullah Geechee Chamber of Commerce

 

  • Founding partner of The Hemingway Group


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  • A native of Georgetown, SC
     

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Education
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  • Bachelor of Arts in Journalism, University of South Carolina




Certifications
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  • Green Tie Award: Harriett Keyserling Conservation Advocate Award, Conservation Voters of South Carolina, 2020

 

  • Certification from the College of Charleston in Social Impact Entrepreneurial Consultation, 2019

 

  • Energy Justice and Sea Level Rising certifications throughout the national NAACP



Awards
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  • Sigma Phi Beta Fraternity, Georgetown Chapters Social Action Award

 

  • Georgetown SC NAACP #5520 Leadership Award

Marilyn L. Hemingway, CEO/President and Founder of the Gullah Geechee Chamber of Commerce, is passionate about Social Entrepreneurship, business development and economic vibrancy in her beloved community.

A native of Georgetown, SC, Hemingway’s maternal family hails from Beaufort, Hampton, Bamberg, Charleston counties and her paternal roots are found in Horry and Georgetown counties. She is a lover and student of her roots and culture.

Hemingway brings an extensive amount of experience in marketing, communications, broadcasting and political campaigns. She is founding partner of the The Hemingway Group, a public relations, advertising, marketing and political advocacy firm. She most recently served as Public Relations and Fund Development Coordinator with Fetter Health Care Network. Marilyn was a vital part of re-branding the Community Health Center which recently celebrated its 50th Anniversary providing healthcare services through 21 locations in four counties in the Lowcountry.

In 2019, she received certification from the College of Charleston in Social Impact Entrepreneurial Consultation. She is a registered fundraiser with the state of South Carolina and has completed Energy Justice and Sea Level Rising certifications throughout the national NAACP.

She is the recipient of the Sigma Phi Beta Fraternity, Georgetown Chapters Social Action Award and the Georgetown SC NAACP #5520 Leadership Award.

She is the daughter of the late Peter H. Hemingway, III and Mattie Daniels Hemingway, sister to three brothers and proud Aunt of eight nieces and nephews.

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