Founder & CEO
Wilfred T. Harris
A business and civic leader with decades of experience in international marketing, community engagement and nonprofit leadership.
Meet Our Founder
Wilfred T. Harris
Founder & CEO, Safeguard Minnesota
Wilfred T. Harris is a business and community leader whose career spans international marketing, agriculture, forestry and nonprofit management. With an MBA from Belmont University in Nashville, Tennessee, he has spent decades advancing equity and opportunity in Minnesota and across West Africa.
Through Safeguard Minnesota, he combines that global experience with a passion for civic engagement, focusing on legal access, youth development and community empowerment.
- Education
- MBA, Belmont University
- Experience
- 30+ years in business & civic leadership
- Based in
- Brooklyn Park, Minnesota
Experience & Civic Leadership
Professional Background
- MBA from Belmont University, specializing in business, marketing and management
- Over 30 years in international marketing, agriculture, forestry and civic organization leadership
- Active leader in building community relationships and civic engagement across Minnesota
- Advocate for youth, immigrant families and underserved communities
Civic Roles
- West Africa Representative, Council on Black Minnesotans, St. Paul
- Chairman, Human Rights Commission, City of Brooklyn Park
- President, Organization of Liberians in Minnesota (OLM)
Key Accomplishments
- Secured $250,000 in state funding, with the Minnesota Senate and Governor Mark Dayton, to establish the Liberian Community Center in Brooklyn Park.
- Built police–community relations in Brooklyn Park and Brooklyn Center, fostering trust between law enforcement and residents of color.
- Organized voter drives and sports competitions that promoted civic engagement and cultural exchange between African and American communities.
- Mentored African-owned businesses with strategic guidance to help them stay competitive and sustainable.
- Championed collaboration between African business leaders and the wider community for shared growth and opportunity.
- Worked with faith-based organizations across Minnesota to support safety, equity and community development.
At SafeGuard, we carry forward Wilfred T. Harris’s vision of community empowerment and collaboration.
Through our work, we strive to create positive impact locally and globally.
Meet Our Leadership Team
Safeguard Minnesota is guided by experienced leaders committed to building safety and equity for all communities across the state.
Board Member
Lucille D. Harris
Advocate for women and youth empowerment, with extensive involvement in community initiatives across Minnesota and Liberia.
Board Member
Dr. Goffa Beh
A medical doctor who is highly versatile and widely respected.
Board Member
Rev. Dr. Francis O.S. Tabla
Senior pastor at Ebenezer Community Church in Brooklyn Park, respected for his work in faith-based initiatives, social justice and immigrant advocacy.
Advisor
Myrna Kauth
Brings years of nonprofit advising and community development experience, guiding Safeguard Minnesota on governance and sustainable programs.
Get involved.