Latif Elam

Mr. Latif Elam is a dedicated community engagement strategist and diversity advocate with nearly a decade of experience managing programs in the public and private sector. He currently works as the Senior Manager, Relationship Management of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I) within the Colleague Experience Group at American Express. In this role, he leads the measurement and consolidation of the enterprise’s global DE&I commitments, impacting colleagues, customers and communities worldwide.

Previously, Latif was Senior Manager of Community Engagement & Partnerships, reporting into the Vice Chairman’s Office at American Express, where he managed an annual community partnership budget and connected over 13,000 Card Members and 4,000 colleagues to impactful volunteer programs benefiting the Madison Square Boys & Girls Club Foundation, UStrive, Harlem Children’s Zone and other vital organizations.

Latif’s community impact extends to his role as Chairman of the Board of Directors for the International Youth Leadership Institute (IYLI), where he has redefined programmatic goals and driven development efforts to create leadership opportunities for over 150 youth leaders across local and international programs. As a young carer for a parent with a physical disability, Latif also brings personal passion and insight to his advocacy for disability inclusion, he aspires to improve services and awareness for disability equity in New York City transportation and public spaces.

An accomplished professional, Latif is a recipient of the prestigious American Express President’s Club Award, which recognizes the top 3% of performers globally and highlights his contributions to growth and organizational values. He is also certified in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion by Cornell University. Beyond his corporate work, Latif actively supports educational initiatives as a two-time speaker at the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) National Alumni Council Conference and as an alumni ambassador for the SEO Scholars program. Latif’s vision for a more inclusive and empowered future fuels his commitment to advancing DE&I initiatives and creating pathways for youth development in his community and beyond.

Latif holds a B.S. in Ethics, History, and Public Policy from Carnegie Mellon University. He is a native New Yorker from Harlem and the Bronx. Latif is a graduate of the Eagle Academy for Young Men in the Bronx. He is also a founding leader of the Eagle Academy Alumni Association and was recently appointed to the Board of Directors of the Eagle Academy Foundation.