Kawanna Brown is a humanitarian, philanthropist, and the driving force behind Magic Johnson Enterprises (MJE). During her nearly three-decade tenure, Kawanna has led MJE’s evolution from a multi-venture business into an expansive organization. Her brand integration philosophy fosters unity internally and enhances MJE’s external identity. Johnson credits her with leading MJE’s brand transformation, unifying the enterprise and its charitable foundation. 

Leading organizational strategy and operations, spearheading business development, licensing, endorsements, and asset acquisitions across a broad spectrum of industries and emerging markets, Kawanna has grown MJE into one of the best known African American owned and operated brands in America. Kawanna’s professional highlights include sourcing and executing the billion-dollar SodexoMagic deal where she now serves on its board. Kawanna helped build the Magic Johnson Foundation and launched the Taylor Michaels Scholarship Program which has awarded more than 250 college scholarships to deserving minority students. Additionally, she has opened 19 Magic Johnson Community Empowerment Centers located across the country to educate and elevate underserved communities with information and technology. She also managed Johnson’s annual “A Midsummer Night’s Magic” fundraiser. 

Kawanna has been recognized for her outstanding contributions to business and volunteerism. In honor of her late mother, she established the Zandria Myers Endowed Undergraduate Scholarship at UCLA for single mothers from inner-city backgrounds. Her honors include the Lexus “Pursuit of Perfection Award,” UCLA’s “Arthur Ashe Award,” and recognition by Black Enterprise and Essence.  

A UCLA graduate, Kawanna is married to Jay Brown. They have three children and enjoy traveling, especially watching sunsets over the ocean.