Our Team
At Kayak Black, our work is powered by a dedicated team of leaders, advisors, and community collaborators who believe in the healing power of nature and the importance of culturally affirming outdoor experiences. Together, we create safe, joyful spaces where Black and Brown communities can connect, grow, and experience the restorative benefits of time on the water.
R. Eric Campbell, Founder | CEO
Social Entrepreneur, Mentor, Chef & Innovator:
With over 30 years of experience mentoring teens and young adults, Eric Campbell has dedicated his life to empowering the next generation through leadership, personal growth, and community connection.
A trained chef and graduate of the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts, Eric brings passion, care, and creativity to everything he does — in the kitchen and beyond.
His love for the outdoors, especially kayaking, led him to found Kayak Black, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Eric is dedicated to increasing access to water-based recreation for Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC). Through Kayak Black, Eric is breaking down barriers, promoting wellness, and inviting people to heal, grow, and connect.
Ghajiibah Campbell, Co-Founder | Executive Director
is the heart of Kayak Black’s mission to make water‑based recreation more accessible, healing, and inclusive. With more than three decades of experience coaching professionals in the dental field, she brings a unique blend of leadership, empathy, and communication to the work.
Her own journey toward wellness began on the water, where kayaking, photography, and time in nature offered clarity, peace, and purpose. Inspired by that transformation, Ghajiibah co‑founded Kayak Black with her husband Eric, to create safe, restorative outdoor experiences for Black, Indigenous, and People of Color.
At Kayak Black, she leads with intention—designing experiences that support mental health, encourage self‑discovery, and build community.
Carla M. Merritt, Maryland Department of Commerce - Advisory Board Member
Pickett Slater Harrington, Champion of Social Innovation, Baltimore, MD - Advisory Board Member
