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

In a significant move for the Conference of Minority Transportation Officials (COMTO) Michigan, Beverly Watts has been elected as the new president. Watts, who is also the CEO and Founder of BME Consulting, LLC, brings nearly two decades of experience in enhancing infrastructure and recreational parks across Wayne County. Her election marks a pivotal moment for COMTO Michigan as she aims to amplify the organization's mission and impact both locally and nationally. Watts’ professional journey is marked by her dedication to infrastructure development and community revitalization. Her firm,

In a momentous and historic move, Collins Einhorn Farrell has elected Michigan’s first Black woman CEO, a decision that not only underscores its commitment to diversity and inclusion in the legal industry but also sets a new standard for the sector. An innovation leader within the legal sphere, Collins Einhorn Farrell PC (CE) proudly announced the groundbreaking election of Kellie L. Howard as its new Chief Executive Officer. “I am deeply honored to lead CE into this new era of legal excellence in which we will continue our

Cheryl Porter, a trailblazer in every sense of the word, is now leading the charge for the American Water Works Association (AWWA) as its President. Her election is historic, marking the first time an African American and a woman of color has held the top board position in the organization’s 143-year history. As the Chief Operating Officer of Water and Field Services for the Great Lakes Water Authority (GLWA), Porter’s ascent to this role signifies a monumental step forward, not just for the AWWA, but for the