Tonya Mckenzie | Source | Founder | PR & Leadership Consultant at Sand & Shores

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Tonya Mckenzie

Founder | PR & Leadership Consultant at Sand & Shores
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Tonya McKenzie is the founder of Sand & Shores, a Communications, Marketing, and Sports Media firm. She is an international speaker and the Chair of the Los Angeles County Commission on Alcohol and Other Drugs. Tonya is a public relations expert specializing in storytelling, reputation management, building community, and increasing brand awareness. Tonya consults organizational leaders, sports professionals, and brands, helping them to increase their leads, profits, and exposure. Commissioner McKenzie is also the host of the Leaders & Learners Podcast, speaking to leaders, experts, authors, and personalities connected to the Golden State of California.

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  • Essence Fest 2025: Balancing Brand Loyalty and Crisis Management
    Tonya critiques Essence Fest's response to the Lauryn Hill backlash as "a branding miss wrapped in a culturally sensitive bow." She warns that while protecting Black women is central to Essence's brand, failing to address audience concerns risks loyalty. "Consumers today want accountability with grace, not just grace," she emphasizes, highlighting the need for balance in today's digital age.
  • TikTok's "Yes You Can" Trend: A Dangerous Game for Young Girls
    Tonya describes the trend as a "wolf in sheep’s clothing," pushing girls to risky acts under the guise of confidence. Predators exploit these posts, and the psychological impact leaves girls with shame and exposure. Parents must engage in open conversations, activate safety settings, and monitor their child's online activity to ensure safety in this digital jungle.
  • Coco Gauff: A Masterclass in Athlete Branding and Global Stardom
    Tonya highlights Coco Gauff's "strategic narrative control and brand alignment" as key to her global appeal. With over 20 years in sports media, Tonya explains how personal stories and media positioning elevate athletes to household names, transcending mere title counts. Her expertise reveals the unseen mechanics behind athlete branding success.
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