NEW YORK TREND
December 17, 2015 - December 23, 2015
MAYOR DAVID DINKINS, REP. CHARLES RANGEL, HONORED WITH LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS
The Black Stars News 2015 Annual Awards Dinner will honor Mayor David Dinkins, Rep. Charles Rangel, Rep. Yvette Clarke, R. Donahue Peebles, Barbara Arnwine, Inez Barron, Sabrina Lamb, Dr. Rudy Crew, Stephen Byrd, Alia Jones, and the Central Park Five survivors of gross injustice on December 18 from 6:00pm –10:00pm at MIST Harlem, 46 West 116th Street
exceptional leadership and vision in her or his respective profession or endeavor and in some significant measure has contributed towards creating a more just society in this Black Star News founder and publisher Milton “Obviously much work
DARLYNE JEAN-CHARLES, MBA, SENIOR COMMUNITY RELATIONS
SPECIALIST FOR FLORIDA POWER & LIGHT COMPANY‘S (FPL) MIAMI-DADE AND BROWARD COUNTIES, RECENTLY VOLUNTEERED AT THE ANNUAL 100 BLACK MEN THANKSGIVING FOOD DRIVE. THE FOOD DRIVE, SPONSORED BY FPL, WILL PROVIDE A THANKSGIVING MEAL TO THOUSANDS OF FAMILIES IN SOUTH FLORIDA.
community partners, which included Publix and American Airlines. In addition, UPS partnered and delivered the boxes to convenient locations in underserved communities for pick-up by those in need. Dozens of volunteers assembled the meal kits that included a turkey, canned goods and other items ideal for a Thanksgiving dinner.
“Advancing meaningful initiatives and making a positive contribution is part of FPL’s commitment to powering strong communities making Florida an even better place to live, work and raise a family,” said Armando Fernandez, Director of
THE BOXES INCLUDE FOOD TO MAKE A THANKSGIVING DINNER.
The gala starts at 6:00pm with a cocktail hour to be followed by the dinner and awards ceremonies. There will be musical entertainment by Cassandra Douglas and from harmonica phenomenon William Galison. David Dinkins is Lifetime Achievement — he was New York City’s first African American mayor and also welcomed Nelson Mandela to the city after his release in 1990. Rep. Charles Rangel, also honored for Lifetime Achievement, has served in Congress since 1971. He is a recipient of The Bronze medal for helping save soldiers behind enemy line during the Korean War Rep. Yvette Clarke is a Democratic member of the US House of Representatives from New York whose 9th district covers much of central Brooklyn. Before entering Congress in 2007, she
York and a former chancellor of the New York public schools system.
External Affairs for Miami-Dade County for FPL “We’re honored to partner with 100 Black Men of South Florida and so many others to ensure everyone has a healthy, happy Thanksgiving meal.”
The 2024 goal is to pack and deliver over 2,500 traditional Thanksgiving meals to those who need them most in South Florida. FPL is a proud sponsor of the 100 Black Men of South Florida’s Thanksgiving Food Drive, helping serve our community and build character, create hope, aspirations, plans and futures for tomorrow’s leaders.
majority. She now leads The Transformative Justice Coalition. Arnwine was for 26 years executive Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under the Law.
, honoree, formerly a member, is now council member and a champion of education for
FLORIDA POWER & LIGHT COMPANY (FPL) LEAD PROJECT MANAGER DEVELOPMENT JARRETT DANIELS (LEFT) AND FPL DIRECTOR OF CUSTOMER SOLUTIONS & SALES MCKENLEY ROMEO (RIGHT) JOINED DOZENS OF VOLUNTEERS ON NOV. 16, 2024, AT THE ANNUAL 100 BLACK MEN THANKSGIVING FOOD DRIVE TO PACK HOPE FOR OVER 2,500 ECONOMICALLY DISADVANTAGED INDIVIDUALS IN SOUTH FLORIDA. THE THANKSGIVING FOOD DRIVE TOOK PLACE IN THE FEEDING SOUTH FLORIDA FACILITY IN BROWARD COUNTY.
Imhotep Gary Byrd is a legendary radio talk show host and executive producer, radio DJ, poet, songwriter, music recording artist and producer, rapper, writer and community activist. He began Buffalo at age 15. For over 30 years, he’s WBLS and . He also has a Friday night radio talk
, founder , is a champion of financial literacy for youth-- she teaches knowledge about handling money, budgeting and planning.
ON NOV. 16, 2024, FLORIDA POWER & LIGHT COMPANY IN PARTNERSHIP WITH FEEDING SOUTH FLORIDA, UPS, PUBLIX, AMERICAN AIRLINES AND OTHER COMMUNITY PARTNERS, SPONSORED THE THANKSGIVING FOOD DRIVE HOSTED BY 100 BLACK MEN OF SOUTH FLORIDA. THE FOOD DRIVE WILL PROVIDE A MEAL TO OVER 2,500 ECONOMICALLY DISADVANTAGED INDIVIDUALS IN SOUTH FLORIDA.
As America’s largest electric utility, Florida Power & Light Company serves more customers and sells more power than any other utility, providing clean, affordable, reliable electricity to approximately 5.8 million accounts, or more than 12 million people. FPL operates one of the cleanest power generation fleets in the U.S. and in 2021 won the ReliabilityOne® National Reliability Award for the sixth time in the last seven years. The company received the top ranking in the southern U.S. among large electric providers, according to J.D. Power’s 2021 Electric Utility Residential Customer Satisfaction StudySM and 2021 Electric Utility Business Customer Satisfaction StudySM. The company was also recognized in 2020 as one of the most trusted U.S. electric utilities by Escalent for the seventh consecutive year. FPL is a subsidiary of Juno Beach, Florida-based NextEra Energy, Inc. (NYSE: NEE), a clean energy company widely recognized for its efforts in sustainability, corporate responsibility, ethics and compliance, and diversity. NextEra Energy is ranked No. 1 in the electric and gas utilities industry in Fortune’s 2022 list of “World’s Most Admired Companies” and recognized on Fortune’s 2021 list of companies that “Change the World.” NextEra Energy is also the parent company of NextEra Energy Resources, LLC, which, together with its affiliated entities, is the world’s largest generator of renewable energy from the wind and sun and a world leader in battery storage. RECENTLY, FLORIDA
rights lawyer, is a champion of protecting voting rights of ethnic minority groups — the emerging
, honoree, is one of the nation’s leading educators. He’s president of Medgar Evers College of The City University of New
Pioneering producers Stephen Byrd and Alia Jones, through their company Front Row Production, brought “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof” and “A Streetcar Named Desire” with a multi-ethnic cast to Broadway. In 2016 they bring “Eclipsed” with Oscar Winner Lupita Nyong ’O to Broadway. Honorees, the so-called Central Park 5, are collectively and individually heroes. They are survivors of one of the ugliest miscarriage of justice in New York’s history; having been railroaded and unjustly convicted for a crime they did not commit and for which they served long prison sentences ranging from seven years to 13 years before being exonerated when the actual rapist confessed. They are: Yusef Abdus Salaam; Raymond Santana Jr., Antron McCray, Kevin Richardson, and Kharey Wise.
The Black Star News, which focuses on investigative journalism, has been featured as a result of some if its news scoops, on CNN, The New York Daily News, The New York Post, The Village Voice, and Brill’s Content magazine.
Past Black Star News honorees have included: Gil Noble (Like It Is), Rep. Maxine Waters, Soledad O’Brien (CNN), Ms. Camille Cosby, Voza Rivers (New Heritage Theatre), Errol Louis (NY1 News), Amel Larrieux (Entertainer), Dr. William Pollard (Medgar Evers College), Herm Edwards (NY Jets), Nayaba Arinde (Amsterdam News), La-Verna Fountain (Columbia University), Lillian Roberts (DC37), Desiree Dancy (New York Times), Greg Floyd (Local 237), Rev. Al Sharpton (National Action Network), and many others.
was a member of the New York
The Peebles Co., the nation’s largest African American-owned real
ALONZO MOURNING ATTENDS MIAMI HEAT MEN’S HEALTH SUMMIT
Baptist Health hosted the Miami HEAT Men’s Health Summit on Saturday, November 16 at the Kaseya Center. In honor of Men’s Health Awareness Month, the event highlighted the importance of preventative screenings and health services for men, featuring engaging discussions with South Florida legends Alonzo Mourning, Dan Marino, Glen Rice and Ed Jovanovski. Free and open to the public, the activation offered health screenings, raffles, autographed prizes, and other complimentary giveaways.
“Unfortunately, it isn’t uncommon for men to shy away from their regular exams and doctors’ visits,” said Jonathan Fialkow, MD, cardiologist and chief medical executive of Population Health, Value and Primary Care for Baptist Health “We are pleased to partner with Alonzo Mourning and the Miami HEAT team to help educate the community on these topics and hopefully encourage them to prioritize their health.”
At the event, attendees experienced panels and fireside chats with Baptist Health physicians of different focus areas, including Michael Swartzon, MD, sports medicine physician; Eli Friedman, MD, medical and sports cardiologist; and Manuel Ozambela, MD, urologic surgical oncologist. During the discussions, the athletes shared stories from their own health journeys and why appointments cannot be put off.
“As men, we cannot wait until something happens to take charge of our health, we have to be proactive,” said Alonzo Mourning, former Miami HEAT player
and current vice president of player development. “Together with Baptist Health, I am urging men to prioritize their annual screenings and focus on building long term habits - before serious medical conditions come up.”
Attendees also had the opportunity to get screened on-site, enjoy complimentary food and beverage services by local vendors and participate in various sports activations, from golf simulators and air hockey to boxing and stretching.
The event also served as the official kickoff to Baptist Health’s partnership with Alonzo Mourning, where the Basketball Hall of Famer will be a brand ambassador for the Men’s Health Campaign. As part of the partnership, Alonzo Mouring will join Udonis Haslem as a co-lead brand ambassador for Bounce Back to Cancer TM, an annual community-wide, familyfriendly fundraising event in partnership with The Miami HEAT benefitting Baptist Health Miami Cancer Institute. The funds raised from this event will help fund lifesaving clinical trials and ground-breaking cancer research.
Baptist Health offers men’s health services at each Baptist Health hospital that features primary care, along with outpatient facilities that focus on diagnosing injuries, performing outpatient surgery, offering physical therapy and providing colonoscopies.
Baptist Health is the largest healthcare organization in the region, with 12 hospitals, more than 28,000 employees, 4,000 physicians and 200 outpatient
centers, urgent care facilities and physician practices spanning across Miami-Dade, Monroe, Broward and Palm Beach counties. Baptist Health has internationally renowned institutes specializing in cancer care, brain and spine care, heart and vascular care and orthopedic care. In addition, it includes Baptist Health Medical Group; Baptist Health Quality Network; and The Baptist Health PineApp, a virtual health platform. Baptist Health South Florida is an academic and clinical affiliate of Florida International University
Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine
A not-for-profit organization supported by philanthropy and committed to its faith-based charitable mission of medical excellence, Baptist Health has been recognized by Fortune as one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For in America and is the most awarded healthcare system in South Florida by U.S. News and World Report. For more information, visit BaptistHealth.net/Newsroom and connect with us on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn
INVESTMENT PROGRAM TO EMPOWER WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS
Breaking barriers and building dreams, the Southern Black Girls and Women's Consortium (Southern Black Girls), a leader in empowering Black girls and women in the South, today announced the launch of its new, innovative Dream Investment Program, a groundbreaking initiative designed to support and elevate Black girl and women entrepreneurs. Developed in partnership with Kindred Futures (formerly Atlanta Wealth Building Initiative) and also supported with a grant from the Kellogg Foundation the program will provide 25 current and aspiring business owners with financial investment, business mentorship, and entrepreneurial training and education.
"Launching the Dream Investment Program is literally a dream come true," says Southern Black Girls Visionary Founder, LaTosha Brown "This program allows us the opportunity to realize our mission of investing in the dreams of Black girls and women. Our work through this program will be a clear testament of our commitment to building radical futures, expanding opportunities and creating a supportive ecosystem where Black girl and women-owned businesses can thrive and be respected in the marketplace."
Recognizing the persistent disparities in access to resources and opportunities for Black women entrepreneurs, Southern Black Girls is taking a bold step to address this gap. The Dream Investment Program will equip participants with the tools and
knowledge necessary to build sustainable and thriving businesses.
"It was a natural next step to partner with the Southern Black Girls on the launching the Dream Investment Program. We are not only providing financial resources, but also fostering a community of support and mentorship, which we know is essential to strengthening the ecosystem," adds Kim Addie, Vice President of Strategy & Impact for Kindred Futures "We believe in the power of Black girls and women entrepreneurs to transform their communities and drive economic growth."
Rising above reports confirming that Black women and girls receive less than one percent of the $4.8 billion in philanthropic investments in the South, and recent data confirming that Black women and girls receive only 0.5% of $66.9 billion from foundations, totaling just $5.48 per woman and girl of color in the United States, the Southern Black Girls have made it their mission to raise $100 million over the next decade to financially empower the goals of Black girls and women. To date, they have already awarded $10.2M to 250 Black women-led organizations through the Black Girls Dream Fund and empowered 800 girls with $408,900 through the #BlackGirlJoy Challenge across 13 southern states - Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, Texas, and West Virginia.
The Dream Investment Program extends
Southern Black Girls' ongoing commitment to fostering economic empowerment and leadership development. This initiative activates the organization's Innovation Fund grant cycle, demonstrating its dedication to exploring new and innovative ways to support Black girls and women.
Interim Executive Director, Chanceé Lundy adds, "As a former business owner, I know firsthand the difficulty in obtaining resources to launch new ideas and the commitment it takes to start and build a business. Through the launch of our Innovation Fund and the Dream Investment Program, we will ensure Black girls and women who are often denied opportunity are equipped with the resources they need to start and sustain a profitable wealth building business."
The Southern Black Girls and Women's Consortium (Southern Black Girls) is a collective of Black women in philanthropy,
activism and girls' work, who hold deep roots in movement-building — LaTosha Brown (TruthSpeaks Innovation Foundation), Felecia Lucky (BlackBelt Community Foundation), and Alice Jenkins (Fund for Southern Communities).
Established in 2017, Southern Black Girls has become a disruptor in grantmaking and is positioned as a catalyst to fundraise and provide greater resources toward underfunded organizations that, intentionally, support and empower Black girls and women in the south. The collective leads alongside a diverse array of grassroots and advocacy partners who are dedicated to the mission and actively engaging in this work across the region. For more information, visit: www.southernblackgirls.org, or follow @ SouthernBlackGirls on Facebook and Instagram, and @BlackGirlsDream on X
AFRO TECH CONFERENCE TO EMPOWER BLACK INNOVATION
Blavity, Inc., the diversified digital media company behind Blavity, 21Ninety, Home & Texture, AfroTech, Travel Noire, Blavity House Party, Blavity360º, and Talent Infusion, hosted its highly anticipated AfroTech Conference. Making its Houston debut, this year's event brought together 37,500 leaders and visionaries across four dynamic days, to discuss groundbreaking ideas that will shape the future of business and technology.
Houston transformed into a vibrant epicenter of creativity during the conference, which featured powerful keynote speeches, insightful panel discussions, and engaging interactive workshops. Notable speakers included Morgan DeBaun, Founder, Chairperson, and CEO of Blavity, Inc.; will.i.am, multi-platinum artist, producer, tech entrepreneur, and philanthropist; Tip "T.I." Harris, artist, actor, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and podcast host; Colin Kaepernick, founder and CEO of Lumi and former Super Bowl quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers; angel investor Hannah Bronfman; Marlon Nichols, co-founder and managing partner at Cross Culture Ventures; Carla Vernón, CEO and Board Director at The Honest Company; Angelica Ross, actress, human rights advocate, and Founder & CEO of TransTech Social Enterprises; and Wes Moore, Maryland's first Black Governor. These trailblazers captivated their audiences with compelling insights into the intersection of technology, culture, activism, and entrepreneurship.
"AfroTech Conference 2024 exceeded all expectations, creating an electric environment where connections were forged that will drive the future of technology and business," said Morgan DeBaun, Founder, Chairperson, and CEO of Blavity, Inc. "Houston was buzzing with extraordinary energy, sparking conversations that will lead to business growth, new executive hires, and product innovation."
This year's conference also introduced tailored summits and dynamic conversations that spotlighted pivotal topics including advances in Medical Technology, AI and Cybersecurity. The event's robust programming provided invaluable insights on technology trends, empowered attendees, and
provided opportunities to build lasting networks that will advance equity.
A few highlights of AfroTech 2024 included:
HANNAH BRONFMAN ANNOUNCES PLANS FOR FUND TO SUPPORT WOMEN AND BLACK-OWNED STARTUPS: After investing in over 70 companies, Hannah Bronfman revealed plans to launch a fund, with a particular focus on women entrepreneurs. The fund will provide essential capital and resources to help scale high-impact ventures and drive long-term growth.
million fund of funds designed to invest in fund managers focused on closing racial equity gaps and supporting underserved communities.
RASHAD ROBINSON AND KENDRICK SAMPSON ADVOCATE FOR GRASSROOTS ENGAGEMENT BEYOND VOTING: Rashad Robinson, President of Color of Change, and Kendrick Sampson, Actor, Founder, and President of BLD PWR, led an impactful discussion on how leveraging social capital and grassroots movements can foster sustainable, long-term community change beyond the voting booth.
T.I. AND TOSH ERNEST REVEAL NEW STRATEGIES TO EMPOWER BLACK ENTREPRENEURS IN INNOVATION ECONOMY: In a powerful session, T.I. and Tosh Ernest, Head of Catalyst 2045 at Silicon Valley Bank, shared actionable strategies for overcoming barriers to success in the innovation economy and creating lasting, equitable change.
COLIN KAEPERNICK TALKS AI'S ROLE IN REVOLUTIONIZING THE CREATOR ECONOMY: Colin Kaepernick explored how emerging technologies like AI, coupled with ownership and authenticity, are reshaping the storytelling landscape for creators in the digital age.
DERRICK JOHNSON DISCUSSES NAACP CAPITAL'S $200 MILLION FUND FOR BLACK FUND MANAGERS: Derrick Johnson, President and CEO of the NAACP, spoke about the launch of NAACP Capital—a transformative $200
AfroTech Conference remains a driving force in reshaping the tech landscape, offering a crucial platform where Black entrepreneurs, tech enthusiasts, and forward-thinking companies collaborate to create lasting change. Building on the momentum of this year's event, the conference motivates attendees to drive inclusivity in technology as well as across industries.
For more information about AfroTech Conference and to purchase tickets for AfroTech Conference 2025, visit afrotechconference.com and follow @afrotech.conference
Blavity, Inc. is a technology and news media company founded in 2014 around a simple idea: enable Black millennials to tell their own stories. Today, Blavity is home to the largest network of platforms and lifestyle brands serving Black millennials & Gen Z through original content, video series, and unique experiences. The company has grown into a market leader for Black media, reaching over 100 million individuals per month through its growing brand portfolio, including Blavity, 21Ninety, Home & Texture, AfroTech, Travel Noire, Blavity House Party, Blavity360º, and Talent Infusion. For more information about the latest happenings at Blavity, Inc. and the company's diverse offerings, please visit Blavityinc.com.
AI DEMONSTRATIONS FROM GOOGLE AND NVIDIA: Google demoed Gemini, its advanced AI tool for writing, planning, and learning, while NVIDIA showcased cutting-edge advancements in accelerated computing.
The conference concluded with the vibrant Blavity Block Party, which featured live performances from icons like Bun B, Jagged Edge, Slim Thug, Mike Jones, and more. Adding to the excitement Blavity unveiled its next major initiative—Blavity Fest, a two-day experience scheduled for May 31-June 1, 2025. This powerful event will spotlight Black ingenuity through programming centered on wealth, wellness, creativity, music, and the signature Blavity energy. Blavity Fest aims to amplify Black voices while creating immersive experiences with brands that engage, empower, connect, and inspire.
AfroTech is a global tech conference that celebrates and promotes Black innovation, entrepreneurship, and leadership in technology. It brings together over 20,000 industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and tech enthusiasts to discuss the latest trends and opportunities in tech. We also bring together over 150 Fortune 500 companies and an audience from all over the world. Conference highlights include four full days of over 50 renowned keynote speakers from companies like Riot Games, American Express, Capital One, & Deloitte; panel discussions curated on topics ranging from Data Engineering, AI, and Cybersecurity; networking sessions and workshops aimed at empowering Black professionals while fostering diverse perspectives in the tech industry. For more information about AfroTech Conference 2024, please visit afrotechconference.com
COMMENTARY JUSTICE FOR DAVANTE ADAMS MOVEMENT
On November 19th at 11 AM, a press conference will be held in front of the Cobb Superior Courthouse to address the unjust legal proceedings against Davonte Adams. This event will be led by prominent civil rights leader and social justice scholar, Sabrina McKenzie, NAACP Cobb County President Jeriene BonnerWillis, Cynthia Adams (Davonte's mother), and attorney Nefertara Miller
Davonte Adams, a reformed juvenile delinquent and dedicated community leader who mentors hundreds of youth through his nonprofit organization, was tragically involved in a fatal accident. However, the subsequent legal proceedings have raised serious concerns about racial bias and the misapplication of Georgia law.
Despite the absence of drugs or alcohol in his system, Adams was charged with a felony, a decision that appears to contradict state law. On November 22nd, Judge Charles P. Rose Jr. will hear Davonte Adams' habeas corpus petition, a crucial opportunity to challenge the initial 15-year sentence imposed by Judge Angela Brown of Cobb County.
We urge the public to join us in demanding justice for Davonte Adams and to raise awareness about the systemic issues that have led to this unjust situation. Visit freedavonte.org for further information or to donate to the cause.
Owner/Publisher
Executive Editor
Editor-In-Chief
Dr. Teresa Taylor Williams
Assistant to Publisher, Administrative
Zoie Williams
International Correspondent
Ann Brown
Travel Editor
Jim Weaver
Contributing Editor
Justin Williams
Circulation Manager
Robert L. Taylor
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Early diagnosis also provides opportunities to try new treatments. For those who are experiencing possible early cognitive decline, we offer the opportunity to participate in ongoing research studies/clinical trials that may help slow the progression of Alzheimer’s symptoms. Our Center of Excellence for Alzheimer’s Disease — one of 10 centers in New York State — is funded in part by a grant from the New York State Department of Health.
CULTURE
KING CENTER RECOGNIZES DR. MLK, JR AND CORETTA KING’S 100 BIRTHDAYS
THE KING CENTER is embarking on a five-year plan to celebrate the 100th birthdays of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in 2029 and Mrs. Coretta Scott King in 2027. This forward-looking plan includes the construction of a new state-of-the-art facility within the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historic Park in downtown Atlanta.
King 100: The Official Centennial Celebrations of MLK and CSK will include a phased series of global activations spanning from 2025 to 2029, which embrace Dr. King’s vision of the Beloved Community, as well as a series of themed events inspired by Dr. King’s timeless teachings and Mrs. King’s inspirational legacy.
The 100th birthday celebrations are designed to build from the blueprint Dr. King left in his last book and answer his pivotal question: ‘Where Do We Go From Here: Chaos or Community?’ Highlights include:
KING DREAM CENTER
CAPITAL CAMPAIGN: A reimaging and expansion of The King Center, will bring pivotal moments of the Modern Civil Rights Movement to life through Dr. and Mrs. King’s words and images. The Center aims to make history more engaging, relevant and accessible to all. This effort is a multi-year fundraising campaign to build a technology-centric facility that will revolutionize how visitors experience civil rights history, social progress and nonviolence as a way of life. Planned features include immersive technologies, including virtual reality, augmented and mixed reality, holograms, and interactive exhibits, seamlessly blending traditional exhibits, visitor services, with digital enhancements. Existing features of The King Center, including Dr. and Mrs. King’s crypt, administrative offices, theatre, advanced archives, bookstore, multi-purpose meeting spaces, etc will be incorporated in the new vision of the property.
KING 100 GLOBAL MUSIC SERIES AND CONCERT: A music series commemorating the Kings’ centennial birthdays in April 2027 and January 2029 is planned. The series will include concerts, original musical releases and culminate in the Centennial Celebration Concert in Atlanta, reminiscent of “We Are the World” and will feature musicians from all over the globe, emphasizing the
Kings’ influence on music. PROGRAMS AND INITIATIVES: A series of impactful programs and initiatives, which will be planned and executed through a network of partnerships and volunteers, that will lay a framework for societal transformation with an emphasis on housing, livable wages, and education. These collaborations with organizations and individuals will be themed around Dr. King’s influential teachings and Mrs. King’s legacy of empowerment for the next generation.
“As we approach the centennial birthdays of my parents, we honor their enduring legacies by recommitting ourselves to their vision of a Beloved Community. Our five-year plan isn’t just about
celebrations—it’s a call to action.” said Dr. Bernice A. King. “Through initiatives like the King Dream Center, social and economic impact programs, and cultural integrations, we’re not only commemorating the past but actively shaping a future where equality, justice, and love prevail. Together, we can transform my father’s dream and my mother’s vision into tangible realities for generations to come.”
The Martin Luther King, Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change (The King Center) is a 501(c) (3) organization established in 1968 by Mrs. Coretta Scott King The King Center is the official living memorial and institutional guardian of the King legacy committed to educating the world on the life, legacy, and teachings of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The nonprofit fulfills
its mission through education and training, customized curricula, research, policy, programs, technology, and advocacy to ensure Dr. King’s message continues to inspire and empower current and future generations. The King Center serves to inspire new generations to carry forward King’s unfinished work, strengthen causes and empower change-makers who are continuing his efforts today. The King Center’s premiere educational initiative, Nonviolence365®, is based on Dr. King’s nonviolent philosophy and methodology. His teachings engage participants from various sectors of society, including emerging and next generation leaders, in modules and exercises that enhance communication, leadership, interpersonal and conflict reconciliation skills.
Image Source: The King Center
NATIONAL CENTER RECEIVES ART PRESERVATION GRANT
A $25,000 grant from the Association of African American Museums (AAAM) has been awarded to the University's National Center for the Study of Civil Rights and African American Culture (National Center).
Alabama State University's Dr. Janice Franklin, dean of the Levi Watkins Learning Center and project director of the National Center, explained that the grant originated via a cooperative agreement that the AAAM has with the National Park Service’s African American Civil Rights Network (AACRN). “We want to thank the Association of African American Museums for this prestigious grant. With this grant, we will be able to further our efforts to preserve and enhance access to our growing visual arts collections,” stated Franklin
Raegan C. Stearns of the Levi Watkins Learning Center is the principal investigator for the proposal. "The program that bestowed the grant to ASU also awarded monies to a total of 20
projects nationwide," Stearns said.
Dr. Vedet Coleman Robinson, president and CEO of the Association of African American Museums, believes that these projects exemplify a commitment to advancing the narrative of African American contributions to civil rights and social justice movements.
“We are excited to support these impactful initiatives that amplify the voices and experiences of African Americans in the fight for equality,” said Robinson “Through this grant program, we aim to empower organizations to continue their vital work in preserving and sharing the rich history of the African American community.”
The Association of African American Museums is a national organization dedicated to supporting African American cultural institutions, museums, and professionals through leadership, advocacy, and networking. Its mission is to advance the preservation and interpretation of African American culture and history.
The African American Civil Rights Network is a national initiative
managed by the National Park Service to recognize the important locations, stories, and individuals that helped to shape the civil rights movement in the United States.
The network provides support and funding to organizations working to preserve these significant sites and narratives.
BET PARTNERS WITH CISTUS MEDIA TO LAUNCH A MARKETPLACE
BET has announced the launch of Shop With BET, a curated marketplace developed in partnership with Cistus Media. This marketplace highlights Black-owned and inclusive brands across various product categories. Just in time for the holiday season, Shop With BET offers a unique shopping experience for BET's audience, featuring selected items that celebrate Black founders, small businesses, and culturally inclusive products. This platform underscores BET's commitment to promoting equity and representation, making commerce more accessible, seamless, and culturally relevant.
BET will debut exclusive content hosted by actor KJ Smith, TV personality Mara S. Campo, and fashion expert Gabrielle Richards to mark the launch. The first half-hour episode of Shop With BET: Where Culture Meets Commerce will air on Wednesday, November 13, 2024, at 10 PM ET/CT, following a new episode of "Tyler Perry's Sistas." A second episode will air later in the season. These episodes provide audiences with a behind-thescenes look at the brands featured in the marketplace, emphasizing BET's commitment to connecting commerce with Black culture.
"We're thrilled to blend content, culture, and commerce in a way that resonates with our Black audience," said Kimberly Paige, EVP, Chief Marketing Officer at
BET "With the success of 'Tyler Perry's Sistas' as the #1 series on all TV for Black viewers and the strength of our digital platforms, launching Shop With BET alongside this content is a natural fit. 'Tyler Perry's Sistas' represents Black culture's vibrancy, creativity, and stories, making it the perfect lead-in for a platform that celebrates Black-owned businesses and inclusive brands. By leveraging our top-rated content and expansive digital presence, we can provide our audience with a seamless and impactful shopping experience that reflects the values and diversity of our communities."
"This partnership is about more than just commerce; it's about creating a platform that celebrates diversity and empowers our communities," said Candi Carter, CEO of Cistus Media "We are
committed to curating an experience that reflects the richness of our culture while providing visibility and support for Black entrepreneurs."
Shop With BET invites visitors to subscribe at ShopWithBET.com for early access to exclusive collections. Available only through Shop With BET, these curated collections offer audiences a first look at limited-edition items inspired by culturally resonant fashion.
The BET Media Group, a unit of Paramount (NASDAQ: PARAA; PARA; PARAP), is the world's largest media company dedicated to entertaining, engaging, and empowering the Black community and championing Black culture. Connecting Black audiences through a portfolio of brands including
, and VH1, the BET Media Group is a thriving media ecosystem of leading interconnected platforms across cable TV, streaming, digital, studios, live events and international.
Cistus Media specializes in creating content-integrated online marketplaces that connect networks with carefully curated brands, enabling content creators and media companies to generate millions in new revenue. With a mission to transform audience engagement into profitable experiences, Cistus Media is at the forefront of redefining how entertainment industries monetize their vast audiences.
THRIVIN’ IN COLOR : FOCUS ON BLACK EXCELLENCE
Thrivin’ in Color, a podcast amplifying the voices and stories of people of color, is proud to announce its latest episode featuring an exciting conversation with Mitchell Linton, Tony Ajayi, and Zachary Spence, founders of 3708 Spirits, a Black-owned distillery making waves in the spirits industry. In this episode, the founders share the inspiration behind their brand and what sets them apart.
Throughout the engaging conversation, In this vibrant episode, Mitchell, Tony, and Zachary discussed their journey as entrepreneurs and the obstacles they have navigated in this predominantly white industry. They also emphasize the importance of representation in entrepreneurship and how they actively support local communities. “I’m thrilled to share the remarkable story of 3708 Spirits and its founders,” said host Camry Brown “Their dedication to Black excellence, community, and culture is truly inspiring, and listeners will gain so much from this episode.”
3708 Spirits started with three friends who connected through their alma maters, Howard University and the University of Maryland, as well as family friendships. Mitchell Linton, Tony Ajayi, and Zachary Spence embarked on the same journey of life with the goal of defining their legacy. In the process, they individually and collectively cherished celebrating the victories of others. The “3” in 3708 represents the three united founders who connected to create luxury in a
bottle. The “7” represents the perfect taste. The “0” signifies the foundation of where they started as a company and where many individuals begin in life. The “8” represents a new beginning as an American agave spirit.
Black PR Wire’s Thrivin’ in Color podcast provides Black and Brown leaders with an exclusive platform to share their stories and ignite the next generation of entrepreneurs. Tune in to Thrivin’ in Color on all major podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts and Spotify
Thrivin’ In Color is a podcast produced by Black PR Wire, featuring interviews with remarkable sistas and brothas from across the country who are doing extraordinary things in today’s society. Thrivin’ In Color takes us behind the scenes of their world, where we meet with them and pick up some golden nuggets for success. Thrivin’ In Color podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all of your favorite podcast services.
Black PR Wire is the nation’s first and largest online Black newswire distribution company and is a powerful leader in effective news delivery services. With a comprehensive database and listing of over 1,200 Black (African American, Caribbean and Haitian) organizations and media, Black PR Wire posts and distributes print, audio, video, and creative news and information to Black media, influencers, faith-based groups and prominent community organizations throughout the U.S. and the Caribbean.
Services can be purchased online anytime, anywhere 24/7; or by simply calling our newsroom at 1-877-BLACKPR. Have some news to share? Or want to know what’s happening in your community? Then connect with Black
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EDUCATION
DUKE ENDOWMENT AWARDS $ 5 MILLION TO BOOST BLACK CHURCH STUDIES
Duke University has received a $5 million award from The Duke Endowment to bolster the work of the Office of Black Church Studies at Duke Divinity School, one of the oldest offices of its kind among all U.S. theological schools.
The grant will be used to recruit and support a senior faculty member specializing in Black church studies to foster research and field-defining work in an academic, theological context. “The Black church knows social justice; it knows music; it knows preaching,” said Edgaardo Colon-Emeric, dean of Duke Divinity School “This award from The Duke Endowment will allow the Office of Black Church Studies to elevate its nationally prominent role as a leader in the study of Black church theological and spiritual study.”
The Office of Black Church Studies (OBCS) was established in 1972 and led until 1977 by founding director Joseph B. Bethea, who later became the first Black bishop elected to the episcopacy by the Southeastern Jurisdiction of the United Methodist Church. In its more than 50 years, the office has served as a “house of study” for Duke Divinity School students exploring Christian ministry in Black church contexts and has served as a home for their spiritual and theological
formation. Duke Divinity School, where the office is housed, was founded in 1926 as one of 13 theological schools associated with the United Methodist Church, an affiliation it maintains today. The Office of Black Church Studies has a role in expanding thought and scholarship across Duke Divinity School, where coursework is required for all students pursuing the school’s three-year Master of Divinity degree. Funding from The Duke Endowment to establish the Bishop Joseph B. Bethea Professorship will enrich the university in myriad ways, particularly by demonstrating how Duke can continue to uphold its commitment to truth, reflection, belonging and learning from diverse experiences and formations.
“The Office of Black Church studies has played a significant role in Duke’s proud history of nurturing spiritual leaders,” said Duke President Vincent E. Price “This award from The Duke Endowment is an affirmation of the importance of scholarship and other
academic engagement related to the Black church, and will further solidify Duke Divinity School’s leadership in the field of Black church studies.”
The professorship will widen Duke’s scholarly ecosystem by allowing for intellectual growth and research that starts with the Office of Black Church Studies and stretches out across other disciplines. This has been demonstrated, for example, through the intersections of theology and the arts.
The office has hosted the Alvin Ailey Dance Company, founded in 1958 by choreographer and dancer Alvin Ailey to support the African-American experience through modern dance.
“This Duke Endowment award reminds our campus community—and by extension, our alumni and donor community—of what we mean by the ‘Duke difference,’" said Dave Kennedy, vice president for Duke Alumni Engagement and Development. “I hope
this award will inspire more donors to support Duke’s efforts to recruit and support top faculty who can shape and inspire our students.”
Charles C. Lucas III, chair of The Duke Endowment Board of Trustees, said the Endowment couldn’t be more encouraged by the work of the OBCS and the opportunity to further bolster its national reputation as a leader in Black church scholarship. “We are thrilled to have the opportunity to expand the scope and influence of the Office of Black Church Studies as it explores academic intersections across the university,” Lucas said. “We anticipate that the university’s intellectual culture will continue to grow and inspire the Durham community and the Carolinas through many new partnerships across the arts, medicine, nonprofit sector, and beyond.”
Based in Charlotte and established in 1924 by industrialist and philanthropist James B. Duke, The Duke Endowment is a private foundation that strengthens communities in North Carolina and South Carolina by nurturing children, promoting health, educating minds and enriching spirits. Since its founding, it has distributed more than $4.8 billion in grants. The Endowment shares a name with Duke University and Duke Energy, but all are separate organizations.
FOUNDATION TO LAUNCH ‘ CHAMPIONS FOR FINANCIAL LEGACY ’ PROGRAM
THE SHAWN CARTER FOUNDATION, with generous support from Toyota Motor North America, is proud to introduce Champions for Financial Legacy (CFFL), a comprehensive financial education initiative designed to empower students at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and surrounding communities.
Developed in collaboration with The Coalition for Equity and Opportunity at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, CFFL is modeled after Professor Keith Weigelt's accredited curriculum at the Wharton School and Bridges to Wealth, a financial education and wealth-building program that Dr. Weigelt has offered to the Shawn Carter Foundation community of scholars and families since 2017.
CFFL is the latest initiative resulting from the ongoing collaboration between the Shawn Carter Foundation (SCF) and Toyota Motor North America, a long-time supporter of SCF's annual HBCU Bus Tour. With Toyota's generous support of CFFL, the vision to expand the program to HBCU students and local communities is made possible.
"We are excited to see our partnership with the Shawn Carter Foundation evolve to include this innovative initiative," said Monica Womack, general manager, D+I and community
engagement, Toyota "One that not only provides resources to HBCU students but also reaches the heart of the community, through advocacy for financial literacy."
CFFL aims to reduce the growing wealth gap by equipping students with the financial knowledge and skills needed for economic success and social mobility. Topics include budgeting, market risks and returns, mutual funds, credit scores, stock markets, and more. By fostering financial fluency and community engagement, the program seeks to change the trajectory of intergenerational wealth and build a more equitable future.
"Every day at the Shawn Carter Foundation, we dedicate ourselves to uplifting students and communities that are underserved," said Dr. Gloria Carter, Shawn Carter Foundation CEO and Co-Founder. "To launch a financial education program that will reach more students and communities, along with dedicated partners like Toyota and the Wharton School of Business, is a vision we are finally seeing come to fruition. We are so excited to see the incredible impact of CFFL unfold and look forward to its growth."
"One way to strengthen the resiliency of middle-class households is to increase their ability to generate wealth," said
Dr. Keith Weigelt, Marks-Darivoff Family Professor of Strategy at The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania and Founder of Bridges to Wealth "I thank both the Shawn Carter Foundation and Toyota for their foresight in addressing a long-neglected social disparity."
The curriculum includes real-world applications and service-learning components, allowing students to apply their financial knowledge in community settings, thereby expanding the ecosystem of wealth-building and fostering local development.
"The Wharton Coalition for Equity and Opportunity (CEO) is pleased to partner with the Shawn Carter Foundation and Toyota in launching the financial
legacy program with several HBCUs. This partnership will help us remain committed to closing the wealth gap through an evidence-based approach," said Dr. Fareeda Griffith, CEO managing director.
The inaugural CFFL program will be implemented in Spring 2025 at Lincoln University, Norfolk State University, and Virginia State University, with plans to expand to other HBCUs University-appointed faculty from each school will receive free professional development training, and trained student ambassadors will amplify the Champions for Financial Legacy course offerings on their respective campuses for enrollment.
PERFORMERS TAKE STAGE AT 2024 POWER GALA
EBONY has announced its hosts and distinguished lineup of performers for its 2024 EBONY Power 100 Gala Grammy Award-winning sensation Coco Jones and genre-defying singer-songwriter Durand Bernarr will light up the stage with their performances, while Michelle Buteau and Tone Bell, stars of the hit Netflix show Survival of the Thickest, will bring their signature wit and charm to the gala's festivities as hosts. The gala will be held at Nya Studios West in Los Angeles on Sunday, November 17, 2024.
"EBONY Power 100 is a dazzling celebration of Black excellence at its absolute peak!" exclaimed EBONY CEO Eden Bridgeman "With the reveal of our dynamic hosts and electrifying performers, this year's event promises to be the most unforgettable yet!
EBONY Power 100 is a transformative force, shining a spotlight on Black achievement across every sector. We are thrilled to offer a platform that not only honors today's trailblazers but also ignites the aspirations of the next generation of Black leaders and innovators. Get ready for an extraordinary night that will inspire and uplift!"
EBONY recently unveiled its prestigious 2024 EBONY Power 100 list. This year's honorees include:
ARTISTS IN RESIDENCE : Aja
Monet, Branden Jacobs-Jenkins, Chloe
Arnold, Gabriel Moses, Jeremy Pope, Kennedy Ryan, Kenny Leon, Maleah
Joi Moon, Paul Tazewell and Trinity Joy
BUSINESS DISRUPTORS : Andrea Nelson
Meigs, Ayo Davis, D.J. Vaughn, Dionne
Harmon, Eric Austin, Ingrid
Best, Kevin Hart, Melissa Butler, Pat
McGrath and Tracee Ellis Ross
COMMUNITY CRUSADERS PRESENTED BY NATIONWIDE : Arian Simone, Aulston
Taylor, Damon Hewitt, Gina Duncan, Congressman Hakeem Jeffries,
Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett, Kelley
Robinson, Stefanie Brown James, Wawa
Gatheru and Governor Wes Moore
ENTERTAINMENT POWERHOUSES : Cord
Jefferson, Gayle King, Kenan
Thompson, Kerry Washington, Maya
Rudolph, Ryan Coogler, Snoop Dogg, Taraji P. Henson, Tasha Smith and Vince Staples
GENERATION NEXT PRESENTED BY UNITED AIRLINES : Angel Reese, Ayra Starr, Doechii,
Gabby Shepard, Genesis Butler, Kai Cenat,
Latto, Monet McMichael, Quincy Wilson, and Uncle Waffles
INFLUENTIAL CREATORS : Aurora
James, Aaliyah Jay, Funny Marco, Jerald "Coop" Cooper, Kahlana Barfield
Brown, Kamie Crawford, Keith Lee, Kwame
Onwuachi, Micah McDonald, Sean
Bankhead and Wayman Bannerman
LEADERS IN SPORTS : A'ja Wilson, Dawn
Staley, Jalen Hurts, Jaylen Brown, Jordan
Chiles, Kimberly Browne Davis, Noah
Lyles, Sha'Carri Richardson, Stephen
Curry and Tony Clark
MEDIA MAVENS : April Ryan, Jennifer
Hudson, Joe Budden, Keke Palmer, Lindsay
Peoples, Nina Parker, Shannon
Sharpe, Sidney Madden, TANK and J. Valentine, and Tasha McCaskiel
MUSIC INNOVATORS : Charlie Wilson, Coco Jones, Connie Orlando, Jason "J" Carter, Maurice "Moetown" Lee, Steve
Canal and Troy Brown, Jon Batiste, Metro
Boomin, Rob Gibbs, Samara Joy, SZA and Tyler, The Creator
STEM TRAILBLAZERS : Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson, Calcea Johnson and Ne'Kiya
Jackson, Ciara Imani May, Dr. Ebony
Brown, Heman Bekele, Jasmine
Lawrence Campbell, Dr. Khalia Braswell, Professor Lesley Lokko, Dr. Melissa B. Davis and Dr. Tiara Moore
The 2024 EBONY Power 100 Gala is supported in sponsorship by: Nationwide, Prime's New Original Series: Cross, United Airlines, Baccarat and Walmart
For more than 75 years, EBONY has served as the leading voice of the Black American experience and is the most influential Blackowned media company in the world. Under new ownership and leadership, EBONY has grown into a multi-media entity, covering cultural news, entertainment, and lifestyle with a commitment to Move Black Forward with EBONY, EBONY Studios, and JET EBONY continues to be the leading authority and anchor for all facets of Black culture, illuminating the Black perspective and serving as the ultimate curator for the past, present, and future of the Black and African American experience.
nickelodeon LETS KIDS' VOICES BE HEARD THIS ELECTION SEASON
Nickelodeon is letting kids’ voices be heard this election season with the return of its Kids Pick the President “Kids’ Vote” poll and a brand-new special debuting Monday, Oct. 28. Beginning today, kids can cast their vote for who they want to be the next president at kidspickthepresident.com. The
following day on Nick On Demand
“The opportunity to host the Kids Pick the President special, alongside my daughter Mia, has opened up our whole family to conversations about the importance of standing up for what we believe in and the
results of the poll will be revealed during the half-hour special, hosted by Nate Burleson (CBS Mornings, NFL Slimetime, The NFL Today) and his 14-year-old daughter, Mia Burleson (NFL Slimetime). The Kids Pick the President “Kids’ Vote” is an informal non-scientific poll, meant for entertainment purposes only.
The Kids Pick the President special will premiere Monday, Oct. 28, at 8 p.m. (ET/PT), on Nickelodeon and be available day and date on Paramount+, Nickelodeon YouTube, Nick.com and the Nickelodeon Pluto TV channels (Nick Pluto, 90’s Kids TV, Totally Teen). The special will also be available the
power of democracy,” said Nate Burleson
“As parents of three, it has always been a priority for me and my wife Atoya to teach our kids that their voices matter--that they not only need to get involved, but stay involved with the issues and topics they care about.”
“We believe kids of all ages deserve to be seen and heard, and we’re proud of the role that our Kids Pick the President initiative has played in elevating their voices around important issues in their lives for the last nine election cycles,” said Jean Margaret Smith, Senior Vice President, Nickelodeon Public Affairs. “Through the personal stories
of the families featured in the Kids Pick the President special, we hope to empower kids to champion the causes they care about, and inspire them to impact change in their communities and beyond.”
After kids cast their vote for who they want to be the next President of the United States at kidspickthepresident.com, they can download an “I Voted” badge, and learn more about the candidates and electoral process. To further support family conversations in the home, Nickelodeon has partnered with NAMLE (The National Association of Media Literacy Educators) on a guide to provide information and resources for parents around media literacy that will also be available on the site.
Told from a uniquely kid-led POV, the halfhour Kids Pick the President special will platform the issues young people care about most in the 2024 U.S. presidential election. Kids from all sides of the political spectrum will share their personal stories and opinions on topics, including the economy, future of AI and technology, and health.
Nickelodeon’s Kids Pick the President is part of Our World, the brand’s global prosocial initiative to inspire kids and provide them with tools to activate their individual and collective agency. Nickelodeon’s Our World is supported by a coalition of partners, including 4-H, Afterschool Alliance, Ashoka, The Aspen Institute, Association of Children’s Museums, ChangeX and Jack & Jill of America, Inc. Caregivers and kids can access resources and more information at www.nickourworld. com
Kids Pick the President is produced by Nickelodeon Productions and overseen by Ashley Kaplan, Executive Vice President,
Nickelodeon Unscripted & Digital Franchise Studio; Paul J Medford, Vice President, Unscripted Current Series; Luke Wahl, Vice President, Unscripted Creative; and Jana Blumenthal Vice President, Production. Luke Wahl and Ben Plumier serve as Executive Producers.
Over its 45-year history, Nickelodeon has built a legacy of addressing important social issues and galvanizing kids through thoughtful initiatives and programs. Whether encouraging kids to be agents of change through The Big Help and Together for Good; encouraging them to get active through the Let’s Just Play grants program and Worldwide Day of Play; educating kids about the electoral process and its significance through Kids Pick the President; showcasing tangible steps kids can take to help the environment through The Big Green Help; celebrating kids and teens who are going above and beyond to help others through the Nickelodeon HALO Awards; or preparing preschoolers for Kindergarten through Beyond the Backpack, Nickelodeon has inspired millions of kids across the globe to take action to improve their communities, their lives and the world around them.
Nickelodeon, now in its 45th year, is the number-one entertainment brand for kids. It has built a diverse, global business by putting kids first in everything it does. The brand includes television programming and production in the United States and around the world, plus consumer products, digital, location-based experiences, publishing and feature films. For more information or artwork, visit http://www.nickpress.com Nickelodeon is a part of Paramount’s (Nasdaq: PARA, PARAA) global portfolio of multimedia entertainment brands.
END NOTES
BLACK AMBITION FINDS , FUNDS & FUELS FOUNDERS OF THE FUTURE
Pharrell Williams' Black Ambition, the non-profit organization funding and fueling underrepresented Black and Hispanic entrepreneurs, has awarded more than $2.7 million to 30 trailblazing founders. Among the awards announced, the $1 Million grand prize was awarded to Dr. Monica Williams and Dana Roberts, Co-Founders of RedDrop, a brand of period kits for tweens with the mission of empowering, educating and supporting young girls.
Demo Day is the annual event celebrating the months-long journey that three thousand entrepreneurs embarked on this year in an attempt to win not only monetary prizes, but mentorship and educational opportunities with Pharrell and other top entrepreneurship experts and founders. The day was emceed by renowned actor and advocate, Hill Harper, and included pitches from 8 top finalists in the categories of AI, Consumer Products and Services, Healthcare, Media & Entertainment and Tech. The panel of four judges, which included, Lisa Price, Founder of Carol's Daughter; Pinky Cole, Founder of Slutty Vegan; Matt Story, Vice President, Global Brand Integrated Marketing at Visa; and Erik Moore, Founder & Managing Director, Base Ventures determined the top winners to an enthusiastic audience.
"I'm so inspired by what the future holds for these talented innovators and business leaders, and the role that Black Ambition will play in getting them to new heights of success - new corporate partnerships, retail opportunities, network building and more," said Black Ambition Founder, Pharrell Williams "Hearing the stories and seeing their products as they pitched on Demo Day reaffirmed that Black Ambition is needed to create more opportunity and wealth for Black and Brown communities."
Thomas Fields, Founder and CEO of GRIND, a sports technology brand building products for children with the mission of pushing young inner-city kids to consider careers in engineering and technology, won the second place prize of $250,000. In sum, 30 dynamic founders received awards between $25,000 and $1,000,000. In addition to monetary prizes, founders will receive the following support over the next 6 months:
Town hall meetings with Pharrell and senior brand partners
Access to office hours with investors and leaders in marketing,
operations, brand management and more
Exclusive invitations to retail partner meetings
Wellness and executive coaching
Access to premier network cultivation and training events
"We're beyond thrilled to be the grand prize winners of this year's Black Ambition Prize Competition! Having $1 million to invest in our business is life changing and will give us opportunities to grow and continue to impact our community," said Dr. Monica Williams of RedDrop "And while the prize
brand partners for the 2024 Black Ambition Prize Demo Day included Visa, Comcast, Louis Vuitton, Adidas and the Lennar Foundation. The night ended with gift bags curated full of founders and sponsors swag, including: a custom luggage tag from Louis Vuitton, CBD bath salts from Homebody, specialty chocolate from Luiji's Chocolates, a tote bag from Joopiter, and a water bottle from Adidas
"Since launching four years ago, Black Ambition has been successful in our mission to support and empower Black and Hispanic
awarded approximately $13M in capital to 131 entrepreneurs. In four years, Black Ambition network founders have gone on to generate more than $265M in revenue.
Black Ambition has been recognized by Forbes, Essence, Bloomberg, and many more top media outlets for driving meaningful change. The nonprofit was the winner of Fast Company's 2021 World Changing Ideas award for Impact Investing. To connect and learn more about Black Ambition, please visit www.blackambitionprize. com. Follow us on Facebook (@
money is great, the mentorship and network provided by Black Ambition is priceless and will allow us to open doors that were previously closed and to start building our own table so we can invite others to have a seat."
Prior to the winner announcements, Founder Pharrell Williams and Black Ambition CEO Felecia Hatcher were joined by Co-Founder of investment firm Recognize and Former CEO of Infor, Charles Phillips, for a compelling onstage discussion. The three discussed community, entrepreneurship and the goals, future and importance of Black Ambition. At the end of the night, guests and winners were invited to attend an exclusive celebratory networking reception of VIPs and Black Ambition Founders complete with cocktails, small bites and music. Participating
entrepreneurs. With amazing pitches from the next generation of successful businesses in AI, Tech, Consumer Products, Entertainment and Media companies, this year's Demo Day was another shining example of that," said Black Ambition CEO Felecia Hatcher
"With the conclusion of the 2024 Demo Day, we're excited to work along our next group of leaders as we plan to expand on the over $265 million in revenue generated by Black Ambition's network of companies, so far." Black Ambition is dedicated to closing the opportunity and wealth gap by empowering Black and Hispanic entrepreneurs. Through its extensive virtual training initiatives and events, the organization has provided invaluable mentorship and support to over 1,000 founders since launching in 2020 and
blackambitionprize), X (@blackambitionpz) and Instagram (@blackambitionprize) to stay up to date with the Black Ambition community.
Founded by Pharrell Williams in 2020, Black Ambition empowers Black and Hispanic innovators and communities to excel, uninterrupted. To date, Black Ambition has awarded approximately $13M to 131 innovative entrepreneurs. Black Ambition network founders have gone on to raise more than $280M collectively.
This endeavor has been recognized by Forbes, Essence, Complex, Real Leaders and many more for driving meaningful change. It also was the winner of Fast Company's 2021 World Changing Ideas award for Impact Investing.
PHARRELL WILLIAMS’ BLACK AMBITION FINDS, FUNDS & FUELS FOUNDERS OF THE FUTUREAWARDING ENTREPRENEURS $2.7 MILLION AT FOURTH ANNUAL DEMO DAY CELEBRATION
Photo Credit. Jason Mendez, Getty Images
If you are anywhere in your journey with substance use disorder,
I want you to stop, look around and open your heart.
Revel in the abundance of your existence. See how small substance use disorder can be when sat next to all that you are or ever could be.
Fill your existence with beauty, purpose and a life of service.
And your substance use disorder— your history of addiction, the things you may have done that you are not proud of—will one day be small enough to deal with while allowing you space to live this life of joy.
Hold on.
We are not the sum of our scars but rather a beautiful mosaic of the life they hold together.
