Mission: Pinellas Diaspora Arts Project, Inc. (PDAP) strengthens the well-being of communities in Tampa Bay by expanding access to arts, technology, media, and civic exchange. We create opportunities for people of all ages to participate in creative and educational experiences in effort to inspire personal growth, community connection, and lifelong learning.
What we do: PDAP organizes annual arts festivals, community technology events, and enrichment programs that bring new experiences to neighborhoods with limited resources. We support local artists through paid opportunities, promotional platforms, and community projects that enhance shared spaces.
Through workshops, classes, and public events, we encourage creativity, learning, and community engagement. Since 2021, our free programs—including art showcases, film nights, artist conversations, music performances, and literary events—have reached thousands of residents across Tampa Bay.
Our Team
2025 – 2026 Board Members
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
PRESIDENT
Debbie Yati Garrett is the founder and the creator of ART FROM THE SOUL D.Y.G. She specializes in creating jewelry, garments, and home decor with Adinkra SYMBOLS as the core of the works.Garrett has worked as an art teacher in the Pinellas community for over 18 years. She has mentored and cultivated many artists within their respective fields. She is known as a great resource and is sought after for her creative concepts. Her current film project SIMI The Series has appeared at film festivals across America and Canada and is an award-winning project.
VICE PRESIDENT
Tresalynn Morris is a diverse and interdisciplinary practitioner committed to fostering well-being, promoting human flourishing, and contributing to social change by centering wellness through art and culture. With experience in conventional and alternative medicine, health education, disease prevention, research, and collaborative disciplines such as Mind-Body, Nutrition, Psychology and public
health.
SECRETARY
Maranda Douglas is a multifaceted business owner and creative professional with deep experience in nonprofit leadership, place-based art strategies, collaborative practices, and civic and community engagement.
TREASURER
Kelly Debure is a Professor of Computer Science at Eckerd College, where she has been an educator and researcher since 1997. She brings a unique blend of expertise in both the technical and creative realms with degrees in computer science and a minor in studio art. Since Fall 2022, she has worked with Childs Park Neighborhood Association and offered adult computer literacy courses at the Childs Park Recreation Center.
AT-LARGE BOARD MEMBERS
Advisory Committee
Jai Hinson
Erica Sutherlin
Leah Clendening
Remi Sammy
Elaine Chambliss
Want to join us as we create a space for to encourage, educate, and elevate artists and families in underrepresented communities throughout Tampa Bay? Fill out the contact form on the Reach Us page and we’ll touch base soon.
A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL-FREE (800-435-7352) WITHIN THE STATE. REGISTRATION IN A STATE DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION OF PINELLAS DIASPORA ARTS PROJECT INC BY THE STATE. REGISTRATION # CH69875.