Best and Brightest: Larkin Belton

Larkin Belton

Senior Communications Strategist

Flock and Rally

Columbia

Age 33

I'm Larkin Belton, a University of South Carolina alum and communications specialist with more than 10 years of experience across multiple industries. Originally a sports reporter and producer, I'm now a senior communications strategist at Flock and Rally where I specialize in client relationship management, project coordination, and strategic communications. Before joining the agency in 2021, I served as communications coordinator for the South Carolina Department of Commerce, partnering with companies, local jurisdictions, and the Governor's Office to promote statewide economic development. Looking ahead, I'm focused on growing as a leader — not just in title, but in impact. Community building and collaboration have always mattered to me. I believe real change comes from thoughtful and purposeful engagement with friends, family and our communities. For me, giving back isn't separate from my work — it's embedded into how I show up every day.

Favorite Quote and Why: "Ability is what you're capable of doing. Motivation determines what you do. Attitude determines how well you do it." – Lou Holtz. Ability gets you a foot in the door — attitude is what keeps you in the room. That's the part of this quote that stuck with me: you can be plenty talented and still coast, or you can bring the right energy and actually make something of it. It's less a quote I admire and more one I try to live up to.

Definition of a Successful Leader: A successful leader leads by example rather than by title — holding themselves to the same standards and effort they expect from everyone else. But consistency alone doesn't build something lasting; success comes from believing deeply in the mission and its impact, and making that conviction contagious enough that others want to follow it, not just execute it.

Advice to 18-Year-Old Self: I'd tell 18-year-old me to stop worrying about what everyone else thinks and start trusting yourself. Put in the work, stay true to who you are and find joy along the way — that's enough. It's what'll get you to where you are today.