Vel Johnson is the Founder & CEO of Vasaj Communications, a full-service public relations and government relations agency dedicated to enriching global brands. A highly sought-after business strategist, Vel works with nonprofit and corporate structures, as well as, political platforms needing reputation build.
Vel served as Director of Constituent Services to the Speaker of the Florida House of Representatives prior to starting Vasaj Communications. She is called a “Small Business Catalyst” in a featured Black Enterprise story and recognized as a seasoned professional with more than two decades of experience in politics and government operations, communications, and community advocacy.
“The heartbeat of Vasaj Communications is helping our clients win professional victories on issues that matter most to them,” states Vel. “Business owners looking for credibility and optimal success, must recognize the need for creative messaging and effectively leveraging multiple media channels—print, broadcast, digital, and specialized events, to grow their business,” she further notes.
Vel has been showcased in the Orlando Business Journal, Today’s Black Woman, IMMPACT Magazine, The Florida Sun, The Orlando Times, and has appeared on several television broadcasts. Towards the start of her entrepreneurial journey, she was honored with the Emerging Business of the Year Award, presented by the African-American Chamber of Commerce of Central Florida.
Vel currently serves as an Advisor to the Orlando Urban Film Festival, a movie and music showcase, and has been actively engaged with a number of boards and organizations over the years. They include: Central Florida Association of Black Journalists; National Association of Women Business Owners; Marketing Advisory Board for the Heart of Florida United Way; Florida Public Relations Association; Council of Volunteer Reading Tutors, Inc.; the Optimist Club; Tallahassee Society of Association Executives; Literacy Volunteers of Leon County, Inc.; and Women in Communications, Inc.
With a dedication to honoring stroke survivors, their families, and caretakers, Vel created Beyond Wellness, an educational platform recognizing National Stroke Awareness Month, during the month of May.
Vel is passionate about providing good PR counsel that helps make our communities stronger. She received a bachelor’s degree from the Florida State University and resides in a beautiful hub of Central Florida.