The Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation launch of their Phambassadors program. This initiative seeks to enlist more than 10,000 enthusiastic advocates for Philadelphia over the next two years, building a vibrant community whose civic pride and impact will help define how the city is perceived and experienced in 2026 and into the future.
I was asked to be one of the super Pham’s to help get the initial word out to folks like me, and you who are huge fans of Philadelphia.
The event kicked off with a pep rally worthy of Philadelphia, with mascots, a drum line,
Philadelphia dignitaries and most importantly PHILADELPHIANS!!
Max Weisman, Comm Director for Isaiah Thomas and Brenda Exon, The Philly Flag Lady. founder of the nonprofit Partners for Civic Pride. She is known for promoting the history and display of Philadelphia’s city flag and fostering civic pride. Exon also wears costumes inspired by the flag’s design to educate children about its significance.
Invested Phambassadors who progress through the program will be invited to participate in Pham Camp, an immersive, one-of-a-kind experience designed to deepen participants’ love for Philly and equip them with the knowledge and inspiration to share it with the world.
Nicole Cashman and Cashman & Associates was on hand to organize the event, and corral the parade participants as they entered Love Park for the rally.
With a nostalgic nod to summer camp, Pham Camp brings people together through discovery, celebration, and hands-on learning. Phambassadors will gain insider access, discover hidden gems, and tap into the vibrant energy that sets Philadelphia apart, leaving them inspired, informed, and ready to represent the city. There’s also a Pham Clubhouse, located at 15th and JFK at that visitor center.
“Philadelphia has an X Factor—a grit, passion, and an undeniable energy that only those who have experienced it can understand. But too often, the outside world sees an incomplete version of our city’s story. The Phambassador program is here to change that,” said Kathryn Ott Lovell, President & CEO of Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation. “This initiative will create a powerful platform that unites Philadelphia’s most passionate advocates to amplify the city’s strengths and redefine its global reputation.”
The Phambassador program is designed with flexibility in mind, allowing participants to engage at different levels based on their interest and availability.
“As we approach the nation’s 250th anniversary in 2026, we have an incredible opportunity to tap into the people who know Philadelphia best — our residents — to amplify and celebrate everything that makes our city so special,” said Angela Val, president and CEO of Visit Philadelphia. “The Phambassador program is a powerful extension of Visit Philadelphia’s Civic Pride work, which treats the city itself as our sixth team — one we root for through good times and bad. We’re unlocking the pride that already lives here, giving residents more ways to share their stories, represent their neighborhoods and show off their favorite small businesses. There’s nothing like Philadelphia pride, and we’re thrilled to team up with the Visitor Center to bring this to life.”
Whether by supporting civic events and promoting good news online, volunteering to welcome visitors at key events, or helping uncover Philadelphia’s hidden gems, there is a place for everyone in this citywide movement.
Sheila Hess a natural selection for a Phambassador. Does anyone love this City more than she. She’s also the coordinator for us super Pham’s.
Don’t forget to stop by the Selfie Station at 16th and JFK, as Kathryn, Nicole and Matt Ray, Chatterblast did yesterday.
COME JOIN ME: If you’re interested in becoming a part of this exciting movement, head to www.phambassador.com/sign-the-pledge to sign up and receive updates on upcoming events, exclusive experiences, and ways to get involved.
As a Phambassador, you’ll join a dynamic community of people who care deeply about Philadelphia—its culture, neighborhoods, and future. You’ll have the chance to connect with others, share your voice, and help showcase what makes Philly such a vibrant and welcoming city.
To learn more or to officially become a Phambassador, visit www.phambassador.com. Follow @phl.phambassadors on social media and use the hashtags #JoinThePham and #Phambassadors to stay in the loop. Look out for Phambassadors popping up at beloved Philly events all through May, including First Friday in Old City and the Independence Blue Cross Broad Street Run Expo, with more appearances to be announced.
