Tonita Cheatham’s Journey of Resilience and Resolution
Tonita Cheatham is an overcomer. As the executive director of community relations for Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois, she has built a career defined by resilience, impact and leadership. But her journey to success has been anything but linear. “There will be many turns, detours, setbacks, and even crashes,” Cheatham said. “The person I was then could not have predicted the person I would be today, where I would go, and what I would experience to get here.” That unwavering perseverance has earned her recognition as a
Tali Continues to Push African Americans Higher and Higher
The 2024 Executive Leadership Academy Cohort — Left-Right Back Row: Latasha Wilson-Batch, Sherlyn Harrison, Kiel Chapman, Lauren DeDomenic, Yalanda Wells, Kashif Henderson, Kwame Burroughs, Tere McKinney-Bundy, Sierra Parm, Jada Shirriel, Denise McGill-Delaney, Juel Smith. Left-Right Front Row: Jacques Moye, Gizelle Sherwood, Sylvia Smith, Tony Thompson, TaJane Nolen, Ja-Neen Jones, Kendra Ross, Tinisha Hunt, Mike Belgrove. (Photo by Joe Pucciarelli; Sean Means Photography) Seventh cohort of the ‘Executive Leadership Academy’ As President Donald Trump continues his onslaught against Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, ridding of the programs on a federal level
102 Years of Legacy of Resilience, Activism, and Community Impact
Catherine Davis, courtesy of AARP, Wish of a Lifetime Barbados celebrates its centenarians’ remarkable lives and contributions by issuing commemorative stamps, paying tribute to those who have reached the milestone of 100 years and beyond. At 102 years old, Catherine Davis celebrated by fulfilling a lifelong dream of visiting Washington, D.C., and the National Museum of African American History and Culture. Davis is a living testament to the strength, resilience, and unwavering spirit of Black Americans who have shaped history through struggle and sacrifice. Born in 1922 to sharecroppers
Detroit Favorite Son, Big Sean To Be Honored with Little Caesar’s Arena Takeover
The Detroit Pistons are set to honor hometown hip-hop icon Big Sean with Big Sean Night as they face off against the San Antonio Spurs on March 25 at 7 p.m. at Little Caesars Arena. In celebration of his birthday and homegrown ties to the city, the game will feature a full Big Sean takeover, including exclusive pregame and in-game activations, Pistons-themed Big Sean elements, and a special halftime performance by Detroit rapper Nassan, handpicked by Big Sean himself. Since exploding onto the hip-hop scene with his debut
Big Boi Shares Tips For Generational Wealth During Atlanta Hawks’ Annual ‘HBCU Night’
By: Ian Shaiyen, Morehouse College student The Atlanta Hawks recently hosted a fireside chat between Big Boi and Brigitte M. Killings, managing director at JPMorgan Chase & Co. Held at State Farm Arena, the fireside chat was part of the Atlanta Hawks’ “HBCU Night,” an annual event that honors African Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Delving into the connections between entrepreneurship and hip-hop, Big Boi and Killings’ conversation was also in partnership with The Hip Hop Museum and explored the importance of community and creating generational wealth. Every journey has a
Carnegie Melon Graduate, CBS Television Star Carter Redwood Launches New Foundation
PITTSBURGH NATIVE AND CBS ACTOR CARTER REDWOOD, son of Tawnya and Carl Redwood, launched his Carter Redwood Foundation in Downtown Pittsburgh, Dec. 22, 2024. (Photo by J.L. Martello) On CBS' "FBI: International," the scripts are perfectly laid out for the actors. The actors learn those scripts, and then the magic happens; the actors perform their roles perfectly, and then in post-production, the television show is prepared for its airing on national television. But Carter Redwood came clean, admitted to a group of supporters in Downtown Pittsburgh that his latest
Keiana Barrett Takes the Helm at the Business Leadership Council
Keiana Barrett (Photo Provided). The Business Leadership Council (BLC), the Chicago area’s premier organization of black corporate leaders and entrepreneurs, proudly announces the appointment of Keiana Barrett as its new Chief Executive Officer. For 15 years, the BLC has been active in Chicago’s government, civic and political arenas, representing its members who are among the region’s most prominent and successful minority-owned businesses. Its leadership has been a resource for government leaders at the city, state and county levels, providing guidance on civic boards and commissions and advocacy on issues
Michigan Black Business Alliance Co-Founder Departs to Launch Game-Changing Strategic Consulting Firm
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
A New Chapter for Oakland County’s Growth: Dom Holmes Takes Charge
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
Richard Gallion’s Journey: From Chicago’s West Side to Theater and Film Success
Richard Gallion overcame challenges to build a thriving career in acting, writing, and directing. His latest production, “A Fall from Royalty,” explores history, community, and the power of choice (Photo Credit: Richard Gallion Entertainment). On a Tuesday morning, Richard Gallion started his day praying. “I sit silently for at least 15 minutes and pray,” he said. Afterward, Gallion took his youngest son to school, a significant trek up north. “Then, I pick up my other son and take him to school—two completely different directions.” Living on the South Side in