Haitian American entrepreneur and public relations executive Marie “Driven” Theodore has been appointed Housing and Block Associations Committee Chair for the City of New York, Community Board 17, marking a new chapter in her long-standing commitment to community advocacy and leadership.
Theodore, who has spent more than two decades shaping narratives in music, media, and culture, will now bring her expertise in communication and community engagement directly into civic leadership. In her new role, she will work closely with residents, local stakeholders, and city agencies to address housing concerns, neighborhood accountability, and quality of life issues across the district.
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She will carry out this work in collaboration with Sherif Fraser, District Manager for the City of New York Community Board 17, and Rodrick F. Daley, Chairperson of the City of New York Community Board 17.
For Theodore, the appointment represents a natural extension of her professional mission of amplifying voices and advocating for communities that are often overlooked.
“As someone who has spent my career helping others find their voice, stepping into this role allows me to use my skills in a new way,” Theodore said. “I am honored to represent the residents of Community Board 17 and advocate for the neighborhoods that shaped me.”
A proud Haitian American, Theodore has built her career around cultural storytelling and community empowerment. She is the Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Playbook MG, a Brooklyn-based communications firm specializing in branding, media strategy, and public relations for clients across music, fashion, entertainment, and entrepreneurship.
Beyond her work in media and communications, Theodore is also a partner and co-founder of Room43 Event Space, a Brooklyn venue she operates alongside her sister, Cindy Theodore. The space was created as an accessible hub for community programming, workshops, and neighborhood events designed to serve residents, small businesses, and local organizations.
As Housing and Block Associations Committee Chair, Theodore plans to focus on expanding community engagement initiatives and educational programming related to housing.
One of her priorities is helping tenants better understand their rights and the resources available to them.
“Education is one of the strongest tools we have,” Theodore said. “I look forward to hosting events that inform residents about tenant protections, housing quality, and how they can advocate for themselves and their families.”
Over the coming months, Theodore plans to launch community forums, tenant education workshops, and neighborhood programs aimed at strengthening communication between residents and local leadership while empowering tenants with information and resources.
Her appointment reflects the evolving face of civic leadership in Brooklyn, where community advocates and professionals are increasingly bringing their expertise into public service.
MarieDriven is not only helping others tell their stories. She is helping shape the future of her own community.
