Every month, The Defender Network spotlights Black women in Houston who are breaking barriers, leading in their industries, and uplifting their communities. Gamechangers celebrates those making history in real-time, highlighting their journeys, the challenges they’ve overcome, and the powerful impact of their work.
In a city known for its hustle, these women aren’t just keeping pace—they’re setting it. With unmatched passion, vision, and commitment to their communities, these Houston-based leaders are shattering ceilings, opening doors, and redefining what it means to be a Gamechanger. Whether in healthcare, politics, real estate, or the arts, their impact is as far-reaching as it is deeply personal.
Meet the women turning influence into action—and making history along the way.
Dr. Tammy Smithers: Changing the literary landscape
Dr. Tammy Smithers, founder of The Personal Librarians Book Club, is on a mission to reshape the narrative—literally. Her organization, which boasts more than 3,000 women from around the world, highlights Black authors and promotes diverse stories that often go untold, opening doors in a publishing world historically closed to many. With an academic’s mind and a changemaker’s heart, Smithers redefines access, equity and representation in literature, one book club and author spotlight at a time.
Dr. Carla Brailey: Where policy meets purpose
A longtime voice for justice and equality, Dr. Carla Brailey served as the former vice chair of the Texas Democratic Party, helping to steer political conversations and platforms in one of the nation’s most contested states. Beyond the ballot, she is a professor, advocate and grassroots organizer whose work consistently centers marginalized voices. Brailey’s passion for systemic change and ethical leadership makes her a trusted name in both civic and academic circles.
Judge Angela Graves-Harrington: Shaping the future of family justice
Judge Angela Graves-Harrington, presiding judge of the 246th District Court, is redefining family law and juvenile justice in Houston. Recently elected to the Board of Directors of the National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges (NCJFCJ), Judge Graves-Harrington’s leadership has made significant strides in child welfare, family reunification, and trauma-informed judicial practices. A founder of the Child Welfare Clinic at Thurgood Marshall School of Law and recipient of the 2023 Texas CASA Judicial Leadership and Innovation Award, her work continues to impact the legal community. Judge Graves-Harrington’s commitment to justice reaches beyond the courtroom—she is a passionate mentor and community leader, now bringing Harris County’s unique perspectives to the national stage.
