Kai Bowman, a leading supporter of minority-owned businesses, is stepping up his game by starting Clutch Consulting. This new firm aims to help entrepreneurs grow their businesses while promoting economic opportunities for everyone. Bowman recently played a key role in helping secure $12 million in contracts for minority-owned businesses during the 2024 NFL Draft in Detroit, including his pop-up food hall concept with Recess, the only Black-owned business in the Draft footprint. In this new venture, he uses his experience to connect companies, government organizations, and diverse communities

Powerful transformations deserve leaders who understand the stakes. Oakland County now has that kind of leader at the helm of its Economic Development Department. County Executive Dave Coulter has appointed Dominique “Dom” L. Holmes as director, and this milestone signals a committed approach to inclusive growth. Holmes steps into this role with more than a decade of experience. That background includes pivotal accomplishments that highlight his capacity to champion community-focused progress. His story inspires residents, energizes partners, and affirms that Oakland County values leadership rooted in service. Holmes

Claressa Shields is stepping into the ring again, but this time, history is on the line in a way that goes beyond just another title fight. The undefeated two-time Olympic gold medalist is about to do what no boxer—male or female—has ever done before: become an undisputed champion in three separate weight classes. Shields already cemented herself as the most dominant force in women’s boxing, but this weekend, she’s putting her legacy on the line in Flint, Michigan, her hometown, where her journey began. The stakes could not

Powerful transformations deserve leaders who understand the stakes. Oakland County now has that kind of leader at the helm of its Economic Development Department. County Executive Dave Coulter has appointed Dominique “Dom” L. Holmes as director, and this milestone signals a committed approach to inclusive growth. Holmes steps into this role with more than a decade of experience. That background includes pivotal accomplishments that highlight his capacity to champion community-focused progress. His story inspires residents, energizes partners, and affirms that Oakland County values leadership rooted in service. Holmes

Detroit's mayoral race for 2025 is picking up momentum as candidates step forward and committees take shape. Residents are paying attention, asking tough questions about leadership and vision. Attorney Todd Russell Perkins has now entered the race, bringing his legal and civic experience to the table. His decision comes after deep reflection and ongoing dialogue with the community. An exploratory committee took a hard look at the viability of Perkins’ campaign, listening to community leaders and gathering feedback from Detroiters to shape his platform. Perkins is clear about

By Donald James, Senior Writer Gone, but not forgotten. The year 2024 witnessed the passing of many notable and extraordinary people locally and nationally. As we reflect on their lives, achievements, and legacies, it is done so with the hope of inspiring future generations to excel. While it would be difficult to chronicle all the notable people who passed in 2024, it’s only fitting to name some in alphabetical order.   Earl “The Twirl” Cureton (former basketball star with the Detroit Pistons)                                                                        September 3, 1957 – February 4, 2024 Earl Cureton was

James E. White, President and CEO of the Detroit Wayne Integrated Health Network (DWIHN), has been named the recipient of the prestigious VIBE Award for Health, Wealth, and Empowerment by Delta Dental. Presented as part of Who’s Who in Black Detroit, the award recognizes White’s exceptional leadership in behavioral healthcare and his unwavering dedication to empowering communities. Margaret Trimer, Vice President of Strategic Partnerships at Delta Dental of Michigan, Ohio, and Indiana, praised White’s contributions, stating, “James White exemplifies the kind of leadership that inspires change and creates

Detroit City Council President Mary Sheffield has officially announced her candidacy for mayor, marking a significant step in the race to succeed Mayor Mike Duggan as he eyes a potential gubernatorial campaign in 2025. Sheffield, who has served on the City Council for 11 years, enters the race with a platform focused on inclusive growth and addressing long-standing challenges faced by Detroit residents. Sheffield’s time on the council began during a critical moment in Detroit’s history, coinciding with the city’s emergence from bankruptcy. “Originally when I came into

Dujuan Zoe Kennedy will step into the role of Executive Director of FORCE Detroit on Jan. 1, 2025. FORCE Detroit has become a national model for Community Violence Intervention (CVI), with its programs leading to a remarkable reductions in gun violence and serving as a catalyst to broader crime reductions across several Detroit neighborhoods. Kennedy, who currently serves as FORCE Detroit’s Executive Deputy Director, brings a deep understanding of both the business side of nonprofit work and the lived experience of those impacted by violence. He was recognized

Denise J. Lewis takes the helm as the new Chairperson of the UAW Retiree Medical Benefits Trust Board, stepping into a critical leadership role following the passing of founding member Robert Naftaly. Her appointment, effective immediately, marks a significant moment for the Trust, which serves as a vital lifeline for UAW retirees and their families. Lewis has served on the Trust’s Board of Trustees since January 2023, bringing seasoned expertise and a deep commitment to governance and financial stewardship. Her prior contributions have spanned oversight of audits, budgets,