MITCHELL CONSULTING Turning heads and changing attitudes
Our tagline is turning heads and changing attitudes - that's what we do for communities.
Who We Are
CEO
About Tanja Mitchell
President & CEO, Mitchell Consulting
Tanja Mitchell is the founder, President, and CEO of Mitchell Consulting — a firm dedicated to authentic community engagement, strategic development, and inclusive leadership. With more than 20 years of experience in community development, Tanja is known as a cultural connector and a catalyst for neighborhood transformation.
Her mission is simple yet powerful: to ensure that every resident — regardless of background or zip code — is seen, heard, and equipped to shape the future of their community.
A Leader in Community Development
Tanja’s career in community engagement began with the City of Memphis Housing and Community Development and the Cooper-Young Community Development Corporation. A life-changing visit to the Uptown Hope VI redevelopment site introduced her to a development team — and a neighborhood — she would proudly become a part of.
Since then, she has worked alongside major developers, city leaders, and grassroots organizations to connect programs and resources to the people who need them most — always in an authentic, respectful, and empowering way.
Driving Impact Through Leadership
Tanja has served on numerous influential boards, including:
- Memphis River Parks Partnership
- Grow Memphis
- Memphis Depot Redevelopment Agency
- A Step Ahead Foundation (former Board Chair)
In recognition of her impact, Tanja was awarded the Downtown Vision Award in 2018 for her service to the Downtown Memphis community.
Today, she continues to serve on boards aligned with her passion for people places, including:
- Downtown Memphis Commision (CCDC)
- Explore Bike Share
- Overton Park Shell
- Memphis Housing Authority (City Mayor Appointed Member)
Our Approach
At Mitchell Consulting, we believe that real community change starts with listening, trust-building, and collaboration. Our approach is rooted in authenticity and respect — ensuring that all voices, especially those historically overlooked, are included in shaping the future of their neighborhoods.
We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Every community is different, and so is every project. That’s why we take time to understand the local context, history, and stakeholders before designing any strategy. Our work is guided by the principles of equity, transparency, and sustainability.
Whether we’re working with city governments, nonprofit organizations, or private developers, our process is always:
- People-Centered: We prioritize community voices and lived experiences.
- Place-Based: Our work is grounded in the physical, social, and cultural fabric of each neighborhood.
- Data-Informed: We use research and on-the-ground insights to guide decision-making.
- Collaborative: We foster partnerships that align public, private, and community interests.
From visioning sessions and stakeholder engagement to implementation support, we work alongside our clients to co-create strategies that lead to meaningful, long-term impact.
Goals and Impact
At Mitchell Consulting, we are committed to building a stronger, more united Memphis by fostering collaboration, amplifying community voices, and addressing the issues that matter most to residents. Through authentic engagement and strategic action, we partner with neighborhoods, organizations, and leaders to advance affordable housing, support local businesses, improve public safety, and champion equity-driven initiatives. Our approach is rooted in connection and empowerment, ensuring that residents have the tools and opportunities to shape meaningful change. Together, we are working to create thriving, inclusive communities where every Memphian can live with safety, dignity, and opportunity.
Vision & Values
Tanja is passionate about building strong, vibrant, and resilient communities — places where people not only live, but thrive. She believes every citizen deserves a safe, decent, and fulfilling environment in which to live and play.
With unmatched expertise in community building, cross-sector collaboration, and public-private partnerships, Tanja Mitchell leads with purpose, authenticity, and heart.
Building Stronger Communities
Habitat for Humanity Partnership
Mitchell Consulting is proud to partner with Habitat for Humanity International and its Memphis affiliate to advance Black homeownership and expand access to affordable housing in underserved communities.
Through our collaboration, we help develop strategies that break down barriers to homeownership, build generational wealth, and promote long-term neighborhood stability.