Photo: Southern Georgia Black Chambers President/CEO H. DeWayne Johnson standing alongside Julian Bailey, Manager at the Georgia Department of Administrative Services.

VALDOSTA – The Southern Georgia Black Chambers recently hosted the 2023 Black Business Gala to celebrated local businesses.

Release:

In a dazzling celebration of entrepreneurship, community, and achievement, the Southern Georgia Black Chambers (SGBC) hosted its highly anticipated 2023 Black Business Gala on December 9, at The Patterson Valdosta. The event was a testament to the resilience, innovation, and success of the local black business community.

The gala, a formal affair, unfolded with grandeur as The 4 Real Band and DJ Chill Will, co-sponsored by S&S Services of Lowndes County and A-1 Bail Bonding of Valdosta, provided stellar entertainment and an unforgettable evening for its attendees.

A red-carpet entrance, sponsored by Bright Start Preschool & Learning Center, set the tone for a night of glamour and sophistication. The ambiance was further heightened by the soulful performance of The Black National Anthem, by Kimberly Grisson-Dixon of Vocal Flo Entertainment and a captivating showcase of talent by the Valdosta High School Marching Cats Drumline.

Emceed by the charismatic Alex “AP” Perry, the gala commenced with Chamber President H. DeWayne Johnson, who passionately shared the chamber’s accomplishments and updates from the year. He stressed the importance of member participation. 

“It is through collective efforts that the chamber provides its members with benefits and invaluable resource connections,” Johnson stated.

A special moment of recognition was dedicated to Nicholas Harden, the newly elected City Councilman At-Large for the City of Valdosta and a board member of the chamber. Johnson acknowledged Harden’s dual role and commitment to the chamber’s mission.

Marion Ramsey, the chamber’s VP of Operations, introduced the keynote speaker, Julian Bailey, highlighting how being an active chamber member had significantly benefited his company, King Ramsey Construction. 

“My business’s success underscores the chamber’s commitment to fostering opportunities for its members,” added Ramsey.

Keynote speaker Julian Bailey, the Small Business and Supplier Diversity Manager at the Georgia Department of Administrative Services, delivered a powerful address, shedding light on Georgia’s Supplier Diversity and Inclusion Initiative. Bailey’s encouragement resonated deeply, urging small business owners to stay connected and not to give up in the face of challenges.

“Many thanks to the Southern Georgia Black Chambers for extending this invitation to me. It was an awesome opportunity to connect with business owners in the local southern communities,” commented Bailey.

The pinnacle of the night was the awards ceremony, recognizing outstanding contributions to the community:

• Small Business of the Year: Legacy Realtors
• Non-Profit of the Year: Beautiful Creations by Chanel
• President’s Choice Award: Vocal Flo Entertainment
• Chamber Partner of the Year: South Georgia Regional Library
• Outstanding Board Member: Hope Brown

One of the event attendees, Rachelle Anderson, described the evening as “an inspiring night – surrounded by incredible individuals, fueled with motivation to keep pushing for greatness”.

Closing the evening with impactful words was Michael T. Hill, the strategic director for the Georgia Coalition of Black Chambers. Hill emphasized the importance of supporting the SGBC and aligning with President Johnson’s strategies for black businesses to build capacity strategically.

Johnson led a toast to the chamber’s new year, which formally concluded the event. Guests were welcomed to enjoy the remainder of the event dancing as DJ Chill Will performed. 

“Setting a bar for inspiration and celebration of excellence in black business for South Georgia was the goal of the evening,” concluded Johnson. “The echoes of the gala are still ringing in our ears, and SGBC is looking forward to continuing our mission to increase, connect, and advocate for our region’s black-owned businesses in 2024.”

More information about the event and membership with the Southern Georgia Black Chambers can be found at www.sgablackchambers.org or by calling (229) 500-6027.