MLK BREAKFAST

TOBA Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Annual Leadership Breakfast

January 19, 2026 at 6:45 am | JW Marriott 510 Water Street Tampa, FL 33602

January 19, 2026 at 6:45 am JW Marriott 510 Water Street Tampa, FL 33602

2026 Theme: "Our Voice, Our Destiny."

2026 Theme:
"Our Voice, Our Destiny."

The Tampa Organization of Black Affairs (TOBA) is pleased to host its 46th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Annual Leadership Breakfast on January 19, 2026. The event draws an audience of over 1,000 attendees consisting of corporate sponsors, politicians, members of grassroots organizations, and the community at large. The primary mission of the breakfast is to honor the principles espoused by Dr. King and to foster positive community relations.

The program includes a dynamic keynote address that invigorated the cross-section of the citizenry in Tampa Bay and offered positive solutions to the problems and concerns of the Tampa Bay community. An awards ceremony is held at the program where we honor corporations and individuals for their positive contributions to the community.

A Message from our Co-Chairs

Celebrating legacy Since 1979

For 46 years, the Tampa Organization of Black Affairs (TOBA) has proudly hosted the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Annual Leadership Breakfast, a cherished tradition that began in 1980. This milestone anniversary video celebrates the event’s enduring legacy, featuring heartfelt reflections from TOBA’s co-founders, dedicated board members, and inspiring former Youth Oratorical Contest winners. Through their voices, we honor the impact of this gathering in fostering leadership, unity, and the ongoing pursuit of Dr. King’s dream.

OUR 2026 KEYNOTE SPEAKER

Dr. DeForest Soaries

OUR 2026 CO-CHAIRS

Candice Cowen &
Dante Moss

OUR 2026 CO-CHAIRS

Candice Cowen & Dante Moss

Candice Cowen &
Dante Moss

SPONSOR INFORMATION

Become a sponsor of TOBA’s Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Annual Leadership Breakfast. Sponsor benefits vary based on the level to purchase a table or submit your sponsorship payment, please use the links below. If you have questions, please contact us via email at mlkbreakfast@tobafoundation.org.

Ad Submission Deadline: Friday, December 12th, 2025

Sponsor Levels

About Sponsorships

Please note that the sponsorship levels presented on this page pertain exclusively to the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Leadership Breakfast. These sponsorships are designated for this signature annual event and include benefits specific to the Breakfast only.

Foundation sponsorships, by contrast, represent a broader commitment to The TOBA Foundation and include benefits that extend across the organization’s year-round programs and initiatives. These are outlined separately through the Foundation’s sponsorship materials.

For clarification or additional information regarding your sponsorship level or associated benefits, please contact sponsorships@tobafoundation.org.

Book a Hotel Room

Make your plans now to attend the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Leadership Breakfast and ensure your stay is as seamless as possible by booking your hotel room in advance. This highly anticipated event draws leaders, changemakers, and community advocates from near and far, so accommodations fill up quickly. By reserving your room early, you’ll not only secure the best options but also enjoy peace of mind knowing you’re ready to be part of this inspiring celebration of Dr. King’s legacy. Don’t wait—book your stay today and join us for a morning of empowerment and community connection

Deadline to Book: December 30, 2025

Volunteer With Us

We are seeking enthusiastic and dedicated volunteers to help make the 2026 TOBA MLK Leadership Breakfast a resounding success! This signature event brings together over 1,000 attendees and more than 20 organizations from across Tampa Bay to honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and inspire impactful conversations on leadership and community advancement. Volunteers play a critical role in ensuring the event runs smoothly, from welcoming guests and managing logistics to supporting various activities throughout the program. Join us in contributing to this meaningful celebration and be part of an incredible team that creates lasting impact in our community. Together, we can make this event unforgettable! 

Deadline to Register: December 30, 2025.

TOBA Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Annual Leadership Breakfast Photos

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Our Sponsors

COVID SAFETY PROTOCOLS

In order to maintain the safety of all attendees, we have implemented the following safety protocols for the event:

  • All guests are required to wear a mask regardless of vaccination status. Masks may be removed temporarily while eating.
  • Extra masks will be provided for any guests who may need one.
  • Hand sanitizer will be available at each table
  • Healthcare staff will be on-site to perform temperature checks upon arrival