Janine Y. Bell’s embrace of Afrocentricity began during her college years at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Though Howard University was her first choice, she ultimately found herself at Chapel Hill, where a growing community of African American students provided a formative environment that would shape her passion and define her life’s work.

During her college years, Bell was a prominent figure in UNC’s Black Student Movement, serving as the cultural coordinator. Her influence extended to becoming the school’s first Black majorette, a role that highlighted her early leadership and influence.

After years working in government planning, Bell founded the Elegba Folklore Society in 1990. Based in Richmond, the performing arts and cultural center is dedicated to educating, informing and celebrating African and African-American heritage.

In recognition of her efforts to build bridges through arts and culture, Bell received the Harvey E. Beech Outstanding Alumna Award for Overall Achievement from her alma mater in 2016, highlighting the lasting impact of her work on the community.

Bell’s mission is to share the uncomfortable truths of African American culture through performances and exhibits featuring clothing, jewelry and art. Supported by grants, donations and revenue from performances and classes, she has worked tirelessly to secure funding for the Elegba Folklore Society.

“My advice to anyone seeking funding for arts programming is to be clear about one’s mission and then seek out best practices for positioning the efforts to be solvent and for longevity,” she said.

That dedication earned Bell the title of Richmond’s cultural ambassador. Designated by the city, Bell creates experiences for residents to become culturally educated and enriched. As a cultural ambassador, she spreads the word about Richmond’s vast cultural programs to attract visitors.

Now, as president of the Downtown Neighborhood Association (DNA), Bell is focused on the Arts District. She wants to foster a sense of pride and belonging among residents and business owners.

With the mayor’s support, she wants to ensure everyone can benefit from the opportunities the association offers and create an atmosphere of inclusivity.

Meet the new DNA president, extending a personal invitation to First Fridays on June 6 to celebrate her birthday, and this week’s Personality, Janine Y. Bell:

Volunteer position: President of the Downtown Neighborhood Association (DNA).

Occupation: President and artistic director of Elegba Folklore Society and Richmond’s cultural ambassador.

Date and place of birth: June 6 in Durham, N.C.

Where I live now: North Side.

Education: I completed my undergraduate and graduate studies at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Family: Daughter, Imani; granddaughter, Yaa-Nailah.

Describe DNA: We’re a civic association for residents, non-profits and businesses within our boundaries, aiming to improve the area through collaboration and advocacy. Our current focus is the Richmond Arts District, an area of Downtown geographically defined by the city, with Broad Street as its spine, and located in parts of the 2nd and 6th districts.

When and why founded: DNA was incorporated in 1997 as a nonprofit, tax-exempt entity focused on business retention and expansion, improved appearance and perception and the assurance of adequate representation of the businesses within the geographical area.

Founders: DNA’s initial board included Richard Waller of Waller & Company Jewelers, Gray Wyatt of Perly’s, Pat Gorham of Richmond Art Company and Millie Jones of Festival Flags, among others.

Why I became involved: I joined the board of directors of DNA in 2020. Elegba Folklore Society’s Cultural Center established its current location at 101 E. Broad St. in 1996 in the center of the city.

The Arts District was created by City ordinance during the mayoral administration of Mayor Dwight Jones in 2012, in part to bolster economic activity. We smile and say that the Arts District was built around the Elegba Folklore Society.

We’ve seen a lot of changes happening on and off Broad Street in the area since then. Some new arts-related businesses and restaurants have moved in, while others, particularly black-owned businesses, have moved out. I wanted to contribute to organizational efforts and ensure that everyone who wants to participate can.

Why I accepted the position: We’re nurturing Downtown growth by amplifying art, life and local business. We’re uplifting our history, championing the arts and standing up for our community’s inclusive character. We advocate for development that provides community benefits. Together, we’re cultivating a stronger neighborhood where both locals and visitors can feel connected. I want to help shape a Downtown neighborhood and its values so that they are equitable and welcoming.

My focus as DNA president: I am committed to shaping an Arts District where a diversity of businesses and nonprofits can locate affordably and thrive to create a vibrancy for Richmonders and an attraction for visitors. I want to work with Mayor Avula’s administration to demonstrate the value and significance of the area.

Strategy for my work: We will work to re-establish an inclusive, active membership where everyone can benefit from organizational support. We’re also happy to be working with the mayor on programs that support business owners.

Our biggest challenge in 2025: We are all volunteers with big ideas and minimal staffing. We’re seeking funding partners who value our ideals to support our goals of progressive, balanced change.

What Downtown Richmond needs: Beautification and plenty of parking. I envision signage, plantings and lights for security and decoration. People should feel recognition, joy and expectation when entering the Arts District.

How I’ve seen DNA make a difference: There’s a lot of creativity and innovation in the Arts District that, with support from the public, businesses can thrive.

Our partners: Our partners include the City of Richmond, Venture Richmond, Historic Jackson Ward Association and Business Watch and we are supported by Councilwoman Katherine Jordan, 2nd District.

Upcoming events: We invite people to our bimonthly mixer. First Fridays Art Walk, with art openings and music, is a recurring event on every first Friday of the month from 5 to 9 p.m. in the Arts District. Follow us on Instagram or Facebook for more information.

How I start my day: My days begin with affirmations, expressions of gratitude and check-ins with my family.

Three words that best describe me: Thorough, caring and cheerful.

Top three on my music playlist: Salif Keita, Nina Simone and Beyoncé.

Something I enjoy that most people would never guess: Swim in the ocean and sunbathe on a tropical beach.

Inspirational quote: “It is the artist who reveals society to itself” by Harry Belafonte.

My current read: “I Am Debra Lee: A Memoir” by Debra L. Lee.

Next goal: To take a break and swim in the ocean and sunbathe on a tropical beach. Sister needs a break!