Author

Layla McMurtrie

Layla McMurtrie is a local journalist who is passionate about arts, culture, and the Detroit community. Her work has been featured in the Detroit Metro Times, Detroit Free Press, Between the Lines, Metromode, and other Michigan publications. She also co-founded a community arts organization called The Vision Detroit, where she hosts a podcast called Tell A Vision highlighting the city's young artists.

Layla McMurtrie's Latest Articles

Transforming Detroit neighborhoods from within

From gun violence reduction to youth mentorship and block revitalization, Negus Vu’s work blends data-driven strategy with genuine care.

How generations of Detroit visual artists are feeling about the rise of AI

As AI use continues to grow, Detroit’s creative community is navigating what it means for the future of art, and the conversation has many layers.

Shade Salons grow Detroit’s tree canopy with community connections

Shade Salons is a collaboration between the City of Detroit and the Greening of Detroit that blends tree planting with community celebration.

How two entrepreneurs are bringing health innovation to the Midwest

Two entrepreneurs from Mexico with a history of building successful operations are preparing to move their company, VITIA, to Michigan.

Attendees learn and mingle at the CDO VIP Expo event on July 29 at Newlab
Detroit’s community development leaders, friends and champions celebrate collaboration, progress

Detroit’s CDO VIP Expo brought together community development organizations from across the city to celebrate their collective impact and deepen collaboration through the Detroit 21 network.  

Melany Sanchez first participated in Leaders in Training during her freshman year of college
Preparing Southwest Detroit youth for power and purpose

Urban Neighborhood Initiatives’ Leaders in Training program equips Southwest Detroit youth with career skills, mentorship, and leadership opportunities rooted in community development.

Forgotten Harvest CEO Adrian Lewis
USDA cuts could worsen food insecurity, reverse progress to improve nutrition for most vulnerable

USDA programs, which once helped Southeast Michigan emergency food providers source food, are being slashed. With over a billion dollars cut nationwide, experts warn of long-term consequences for food access, nutrition and local economies.  

Huge CNC Machines at Tarus's factory in Sterling Heights.
TARUS turns 40 with bold moves and innovation in manufacturing and software

As TARUS celebrates 40 years in Sterling Heights, the Michigan-based manufacturer is forging a bold new path—combining precision tooling for critical industries with the launch of its custom-built software platform, VERAX ERP, to help manufacturers thrive.

Valerie Orr, Executive Director of Community Foundation of Monroe County
Valerie Orr Brings educator’s eye and collaborative vision to Community Foundation of Monroe County

Valerie Orr brings an educator’s perspective and collaborative spirit to her role as executive director of the Community Foundation of Monroe County.

Nonprofit Day at the Capitol, February 2025
How Michigan nonprofits are navigating federal uncertainty

Michigan nonprofits are facing uncertainty as federal funding streams fluctuate and administrative support wanes. The Michigan Nonprofit Association is helping organizations navigate this instability through advocacy, collaboration, and strategic planning.

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