How John Ahmann Is Reshaping Atlanta’s West Side Communities (Part Two)

How John Ahmann Is Reshaping Atlanta’s West Side Communities (Part Two)

From In the Black by T. Dallas Smith

February 19, 2026 · 16 min

About this episode

In this episode, T. Dallas Smith and John Ahmann discuss leadership, community development, and the impact of civic engagement on Atlanta's West Side.

In Part Two of their conversation, T. Dallas Smith and John Ahmann dive into the leaders, lessons, and life experiences that shaped John’s work across Atlanta. John shares how his time with the Atlanta Olympic Committee taught him the power of bold vision, firm deadlines, and civic leadership. He reflects on learning from figures like Ambassador Andrew Young, Mayor Shirley Franklin, and business leaders who showed how real change happens when communities, government, and companies move together. The discussion turns personal as John discovers his uncle’s role as an organizer of the March on Washington and sees his legacy preserved in civil rights history at Booker T. Washington High School. John also explains the mission behind the West Side Future Fund and what it means to build a “beloved community,” rooted in Dr. King’s vision of dignity, opportunity, and shared responsibility. He paints a picture of thriving neighborhoods built on strong infrastructure and strong values. This episode offers a clear look at leadership, legacy, and how communities grow when people lead with purpose.

People in this episode

Host: T. Dallas Smith

Guest: John Ahmann

Topics covered

  • community development
  • leadership
  • civil rights
  • urban planning
  • legacy
  • civic engagement

Keywords

  • Atlanta
  • community
  • leadership
  • civil rights
  • West Side Future Fund
  • urban development
  • legacy
  • civic leadership

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Atlanta Olympic Committee, West Side Future Fund

Places: Atlanta, Booker T. Washington High School

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