Portia Powell’s rise to the top started in a place familiar to many Detroiters – as a young woman fresh out of college, facing credit card debt and the need for a job. She didn’t plan on staying in banking long, just enough to get by. But what began as a temporary role soon turned into a career path she never expected. Now, Powell is about to make history as the first Black woman to become CEO of One Detroit Credit Union, a financial institution with deep

In a strategic effort to increase its impact and reinforce its management team, 98Forward, a prominent PR and communications agency in Michigan that is not only the largest Black-owned but also women-led, has made significant changes. The agency has appointed Ernest Wilkins, a content strategist with a strong national reputation, to the position of Senior Director while also recognizing the talent of Cydney Foster by promoting her to the role of Manager. These carefully selected appointments highlight the agency’s commitment to promoting creativity and equipping the next

Black entrepreneurs are the heartbeat of innovation and resilience within our communities, driving not just economic growth but also cultural and social progress. Their success is vital to creating a more equitable society where opportunities are accessible to all, not just a privileged few. Ensuring that Black entrepreneurs have a fair chance at receiving resources and funding isn’t just a matter of fairness; it’s a necessity for the vibrant, diverse economy that truly reflects our collective potential. Loren Townes, Jr. stepping into the role of Director of Entrepreneurial

Chanell Scott Contreras made history in November 2023 as the first Black woman CEO of a green bank in the U.S. Michigan Saves, under her leadership, offers financing for energy efficiency and renewable energy projects, helping everyday folks save money and go green. Scott Contreras emphasizes the importance of green banks in driving the transition to clean energy, especially for the Black community. “Green banks are vital for driving the transition to clean energy, providing essential financing and incentives to make renewable energy and energy efficiency projects

By Donald James In the capital city of Monrovia, Liberia, West Africa – 5,020 miles from Detroit – the days of Mercy Yango were once filled with boundless energy and spiritual engagement rooted in Liberian traditions with close family and friends. However, life for Mercy took a turn for the worse when, not long ago, the 37-year-old mother of three started experiencing heart-related issues that she couldn't ignore. She was ultimately diagnosed with a life-threatening heart condition beyond the scope of what local clinics and hospitals in Liberia

Ella Fitzgerald once said something so simple yet so profound that decades later, it still touches the masses, "Just don't give up trying to do what you really want to do. Where there is love and inspiration, I don't think you can go wrong." These words perfectly capture the spirit of Lee H. Alexander, whose journey in the arts is a masterclass in dedication and passion. From his early days in Detroit, where he nurtured a love for storytelling and performance, to his rise as a versatile

Confidence and support can transform lives, especially for Black women who navigate a world often stacked against them. These elements are the bedrock upon which Courtney Ebonique Smith, the dynamic and inspiring CEO of the Detroit Phoenix Center, has built her journey. Now, she stands at the precipice of an international stage as a candidate for Ms. Voluptuous International, ready to showcase the power of resilience, leadership, and unwavering commitment to community upliftment. Smith’s trajectory from a passionate youth advocate to a beacon of hope in Detroit is

As the RECESS24: National Black and Brown Clean Energy Conference approaches, excitement is building for an event designed to create an onramp for Black and Brown individuals into the booming clean energy sector. Taking place from September 9-11, 2024, at Huntington Place in Detroit, this conference is more than just a gathering—it’s a movement aimed at fostering inclusivity and innovation in the clean energy industry. The conference follows the success of Black Tech Saturdays’ Clean Energy Takeover, where clean energy founders shared their journeys and fielded questions