Latif Elam

Mr. Latif Elam is a dedicated community engagement strategist and diversity advocate with nearly a decade of experience managing programs at Fortune 100 companies. 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 execution, measurement, and exporting of the enterprise’s $4 billion global DE&I commitment, impacting over 20,000 colleagues worldwide.

Previously, Latif was Senior Manager of Community Engagement & Partnerships, directly reporting to the Vice Chairman of American Express, where he managed a $1.2 million annual budget and connected over 13,000 Card Members and 4,000 colleagues to impactful volunteer programs benefiting the Madison Square Boys & Girls Club, Harlem Children’s Zone, YouthStrive, 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 increased accessibility and safety in New York City, aspiring to improve services and awareness for disability equity in 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 advocate 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.