Meet
Telisa!

Innovative. Passionate. Inspirational. Unique. Loving.

Telisa Franklin is the State Representative-Elect for Tennessee House District 96, elected on August 6, 2026. An Emmy-nominated media personality, entrepreneur, and longtime community advocate, Franklin was born and raised in Memphis’ historic Douglass community.

Her life’s journey is rooted in faith, resilience, perseverance, and service. After losing her father at a young age and growing up amid community challenges, Franklin was strengthened by her grandparents, who instilled in her the importance of faith, family, hard work, and leadership. As the second of five siblings, she embraced responsibility early, helping care for her younger brothers and developing a determination that would shape her personal and professional journey.

Driven by purpose and a passionate pursuit of uplifting others, Franklin has expanded her knowledge through advanced studies, professional development, and specialized training in biblical studies, divinity, Christian counseling, leadership, mental health, and community service. Her educational background and professional certifications complement decades of hands-on experience serving individuals, families, and communities. Inspirational in her drive, she was influenced by her grandfather’s legacy as a pastor, building her life on a foundation of faith, hard work, and service.

Franklin is an innovative entrepreneur and servant leader who serves as President of Telisa Franklin Media, Memphis Juneteenth, and I Love My Community CDC. She is a sought-after motivational speaker, licensed life coach, Christian counselor, Certified Peer Recovery Specialist, and certified diversity and inclusion professional. She is also an engaging radio and television personality who has used her platforms to inspire hope, healing, empowerment, and positive change.

An accomplished author, Franklin has written five books: Team Victorious, MVP, Juneteenth Activity Book, Faith and Finances, and Seed to Success. Her writings reflect her commitment to education, personal development, financial literacy, faith, and cultural celebration.

Her loving dedication to community service led her to establish several initiatives that have become unique traditions throughout Memphis, including Christmas in Cordova, the Raleigh Christmas Parade, and the North Memphis Community Easter Extravaganza. These efforts reflect her commitment to children, families, seniors, businesses, and stronger neighborhoods.

Franklin’s civic and political leadership includes serving as Recording Secretary and Executive Committee Woman for District 7 of the Shelby County Democratic Party and Marketing Chair for the National Federation of Democratic Women. She is also active with the National Women’s Political Caucus and Democratic Women of Shelby County.

Her service extends across numerous organizations and leadership roles. Franklin serves as a Clergy Ambassador for the Memphis Police Department and is a graduate of Leadership Memphis, Leadership Bartlett, and Leaders of Color. She serves as President of the Rotary Central Foundation and is active with the Junior League of Memphis, NAACP, Memphis Central Rotary Club, Memphis Chapter of 100 Black Women, and the Drifters Memphis Chapter. She is also a proud member of the Order of the Eastern Star, Jackson Mound Chapter #62.

Her journey from the Douglass community to the Tennessee State House reflects a lifelong commitment to faith, family, service, and building stronger, safer, and more connected communities for generations to come.