Black Wall Street 2024 Legacy Award Winners
Celebrating excellence, empowerment, and the enduring spirit of Black achievement.
This momentous event served as a tribute to Asheville’s pioneers, innovators, and change-makers who have shaped our history and inspired our future.
The awards ceremony took place on Saturday, February 17, 2024 at Black Wall Street-AVL. The evening was filled with music and community excellence.
Congratulations to the winners of the Black Wall Street Legacy Award 2024! Your dedication and achievements inspire us all.
Legacy Award Winners
- Community Leader Award: Philip Cooper
- Emerging Young Leader Award: Sapphire De’Bellot
- Business Trailblazer Award: Trina & Kahlani Jackson
- Outstanding Elder Award: Jacquelyn Hallum
- Outstanding Non-Profit Organization: Sisters Caring 4 Sisters
Special Black Wall Street Award Winners
- Lifetime Achievement Award: Johnnie Grant
- Entrepreneur of the Year Award: Nian Avery & Cici Weston
- Educator of the Year Award: Ruafika Cobb
The Nominees Are Also Winners
More than 25 people were nominated for Legacy Awards by members of the community. Their extraordinary achievements are a cause for celebration. Each of the nominees has made outstanding contributions to our community.
Community Leaders – A community leader is someone who puts others above themselves. They have a demonstrated commitment to, and love for, the community. They are engaged and always offering solutions for problems, ideas above complaints, and answers to the questions that matter most in the community. Congratulations Tiajzhane Anderson, Pearl De’Bellot, Martin Moore, Phyllis Utley, Sapphire De’Bellot, Dr. Ameiris Lavender, “Knowledge” Al Green, Matthew Bacoate III, Roxana Pepper, and Philip Cooper.
Outstanding Elders – An outstanding elder is a person above 60 years old who embodies wisdom, resilience, and compassion. They are a pillar of the community and are there even when you don’t know it. They paved the way upon which we walk. Their strength is our foundation. Their lives are a testament to service, dedication, and honor. We acknowledge that our outstanding elders are the shoulders upon which we stand. Congratulations Jacquelyn Hallum, Mike Little, Matthew Bacoate, Andrea Clark, Dr. Joseph Fox, and Catherine Mitchell.
Business Trailblazers – A business trailblazer is a person who participates in the local ecosystem. They push when others are resting. You see them networking, generating revenue, creating jobs, and turning ideas into realities. They know how to clear paths for others to thrive. This person is committed to making progress in business despite the very real disparities in our community. Congratulations Phyllis Utley, Priscilla Robinson, Leondra Hoke, Clarence Robinson, Duane Adams, Trina + Kahlini Jackson, and Shana McDowell.
Outstanding Non-Profit Organizations – These organizations are a tribute to the heart and soul of our community. Each of these nonprofits stands out as a beacon of service, dedication, and positive impact. This award is not just about the activities undertaken, it’s about the unwavering commitment to creating a better future for all. All of these organizations go beyond the call of duty, leveraging their resources, expertise, and compassion to uplift the community. They embody the spirit of service, exhibit exceptional leadership, and continually strive to create a positive, lasting impact on our lives. Congratulations UMOJA Health, Wellness, and Justice Collective, MLK Association, COThinkk, and Sistas Caring 4 Sistas.
Emerging Young Leaders – The emerging young leader has been identified as a person under 21 years old who is committed to something better for themselves and the community. They are involved in learning, work, and service. They use their energy, time, and ideas to make improvements. We see their potential and all the amazing things that can be done by them and through them. We celebrate them as emerging leaders that will move the needle for our community. Congratulations Sapphire De’Bellot and Miracle Okoro.
We don’t just have wealth – we ARE wealth!
~ Oralene Simmons
Black Wall Street is dedicated to providing support to ensure all Black entrepreneurs can thrive. To help Black Wall Street foster diversity and inclusion in the business world, please visit blackwallstreetavl.com.
