James Agens is a passionate champion for community-centered leadership and innovation, driven by a commitment to creating tangible impact. With a focus on empowering diverse populations and building collaborative solutions, James approaches every project with an entrepreneurial spirit, striving to develop effective and inclusive initiatives.
 

A graduate of the University of South Carolina with a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communications
and a Minor in Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior, James’s academic foundation shaped
his interest in health communications and policy. In 2023, he contributed to a research cohort that
developed a prevention program for pregnant women living with HIV, solidifying his passion for
leveraging communication as a tool for driving change and advancing systemic solutions.

This dedication to driving change led James to join AARP’s Government Affairs team, where he
supported campaign communications and public engagement efforts in South Carolina. His work
included tracking U.S. Representatives, Senators, and presidential candidates during the 2024
primary and developing a Social Security solvency campaign to educate and engage stakeholders.

Currently, James is pursuing an International Master of Business Administration (IMBA) at the
University of South Carolina, the nation’s top-ranked program of its kind. Focused on strategy and
finance, his MBA is equipping him to bridge the gap between business and public policy, preparing
him to lead mission-driven organizations with analytical and strategic expertise.

James was recently selected as the 2025 Columbia Ambassador, where he is advancing tourism
and economic development in South Carolina’s Midlands region. In this role, he is committed to
making Columbia a welcoming destination for all, particularly highlighting the vital contributions
of the LGBTQ+ community to the local economy.

As a collaborative leader, James embraces the philosophy to "seek first to understand, then to be
understood." This approach allows him to foster trust, navigate diverse perspectives, and lead
teams toward shared goals. His commitment to empowering others extends deeply into the
LGBTQ+ community, where he works to connect individuals to resources that enable them to
thrive in affirming environments.

James’s dedication to equity and inclusion is deeply rooted in his upbringing as the child of a single
mother who immigrated from South Africa. His mother’s experiences during apartheid taught him
the importance of questioning systems of inequality and treating others with humanity and respect.
These values continue to guide his leadership and commitment to breaking down barriers and
building stronger communities.

Through his work, James aims to be a connector, change-maker, and champion for all voices. His
vision is a world where everyone, regardless of background or circumstance, has a seat at the table
and the opportunity to succeed.