Councilmember Chakema Clinton-Quintana
Bio
Chakema Clinton-Quintana is an accomplished leader in inclusive economic development, community advocacy, and small-business empowerment, with more than two decades of experience in banking, regulatory compliance, and entrepreneurial support. She is widely recognized for building trusted ecosystems that expand access to capital, coaching, and opportunity for entrepreneurs, women, veterans, and historically underrepresented communities.
Chakema holds a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration and a Master of Business Administration, and brings deep expertise in financial systems, risk management, and compliance. Throughout her career, she has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs strengthen their businesses through hands-on coaching, strategic planning, networking, micro-lending guidance, SBA financing support, and practical workshops. Her work is grounded in empathy, authenticity, and inclusivity, and centered on helping entrepreneurs move from idea to sustainability and growth.
Chakema is an alumna of Leadership Wilmington (2022) and Leadership for Inclusive Communities (2024), a finalist in WILMA’s 2021 Women to Watch, and a WilmingtonBiz Top 100 Connector for four consecutive years (2021–2024). She is the recipient of the 2022 New Hanover County Equity Award for Business and the James Fullwood Award for community impact.
Chakema is a highly engaged civic leader and volunteer, serving on various boards and commissions. She is a proud member of the Beta Sigma Sigma Alumnae Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated, NAACP, Women in Networking of NHC, Wilmington Cape Fear Rotary, and balances her professional drive with a fulfilling personal life as a mother of four and grandmother of four.
City Council Committees
- Evaluation Committee
- Naming Facilities Committee (chair)
- Ad Hoc Capital Improvements
- Cape Fear Council of Governments
Other Boards or Commissions