Diversity in Business Awards 2025: Leslie Smallwood-Lewis, Mosaic Development Partners

Leslie Smallwood-Lewis, co-founder and COO of Mosaic Development Partners JV, photographed at Avira at Schuylkill Yards. JARED GRUENWALD | LEFT EYED STUDIOS

Lisa Dukart I Feb 20, 2025

Leslie Smallwood-Lewis, co-founder and COO, Mosaic Development Partners JV

Mosaic Development Partners is shaping Philadelphia piece by piece. Founded in 2008 by Leslie Smallwood-Lewis and Gregory Reaves, the commercial real estate development firm is in the process of several major projects, including the co-development of the Philadelphia Navy Yard. The Philadelphia firm, for which Smallwood-Lewis leads operations, already debuted the 137,000-square-foot life sciences building at 1201 Normandy Place. Currently underway, they are also developing Chapel Plaza, which will offer the first residential units at the Navy Yard, in addition to retail and performance spaces. Other major projects Mosaic will have a hand in include the Philadelphia 76ers new joint arena with the Philadelphia Flyers, the New Africa Center and the $54 million Frankford Transportation Center. In total, Mosaic has a $7 billion development pipeline.

Education: B.S., Brown University; J.D., Villanova University

Originally from: Philadelphia

A word that best describes me: Humble

My most significant contribution to DEI so far: As a Black female in a white male-dominated industry, it is my ability to encourage and inspire other women of color to enter and thrive in the industry.

The most crucial aspect of DEI in 2025 will be: Keeping the significance and relevance alive while under legal attack.

My advice for rising leaders of color: Be bold, prioritize training and education, seek fruitful internships and mentorships.

A lesson I’ve learned from other generations that I wish everyone learned:Resilience

A diverse business icon I admire: My dad. He was a trailblazer by achieving his Ph.D. and attaining the position of regional director at the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare, a Cabinet-level department from 1953 until 1979. My proudest moment is when he was sworn into his position.

Something I do daily to set my day up for success: Rise early and plan my day for optimal efficiency.

For fun I like to: Dance

My favorite way to unwind: Binge watching a good Netflix or Prime original series or reading a book on the beach.

Go-to ice cream spot: Chloe’s Corner Ice Cream Shop