Get The Scoop on the 2nd Annual Networking Soirée of The African American Small Business Foundation, Inc.

The African American Small Business Foundation, Inc. Announces the
2nd Annual Networking Soirée —
Celebrating “The Power of Partnership”

Carle Place, New York— December 2, 2025 — The African American Small Business Foundation, Inc. proudly presents the 2nd Annual Networking Soirée, in partnership with the 100 Black Men of Eastern New York, Inc. and the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc. (LIAACC). This year’s celebration will be held at Fogo De Chão, located in Carle Place, New York, and will highlight the 2025 theme: “The Power of Partnership.”

The Networking Soirée brings together business leaders, community advocates, and professionals from across Long Island and New York City for an evening of collaboration, connection, and celebration of economic empowerment. Guests will enjoy 2hrs of appetizers along with an elegant experience, live networking opportunities, and highlights of ongoing initiatives that strengthen the small business ecosystem across the region. Click on link here to register 

About the African American Small Business Foundation, Inc.

The African American Small Business Foundation, Inc. is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and uplifting small businesses, particularly those owned by African Americans and other minority entrepreneurs. The Foundation focuses on financial literacy, entrepreneurial training, access to capital, and economic empowerment, helping business owners build sustainable enterprises and strengthen communities throughout New York State.

First Trans Woman of Color Toni Newman Receives Honorary Doctorate in International Law and Legal Studies

Toni Newman Receives Honorary Doctorate in International Law and Legal Studies

Toni Newman, renowned author, human rights advocate, and social justice leader, has been awarded an Honorary Doctorate from Azteca University for her outstanding contributions to the advancement of LGBTQ+ equality, racial justice, and the rights of marginalized communities.

As a Trans Woman of Color, Newman’s decades-long career has been defined by visionary leadership, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to uplifting those whose voices are too often silenced. This prestigious recognition from Azteca University honors not only her personal journey of transformation and triumph but also her trailblazing work at the intersection of advocacy, education, and social equity.

“This Honorary Doctorate from Azteca University is more than an honor—it’s a testament to every trans woman of color who has fought to live authentically and lead with purpose,” said Dr. Toni Newman. “I share this recognition with all those who continue to break barriers and create spaces of dignity, hope, and justice for our communities.”

Get The Scoop On The Exclusive Interview with Author Max W. Miller on Healing, Self-Publishing, and Turning Pain Into Purpose

Exclusive Interview: Author Max W. Miller on
Healing, Self-Publishing, and
Turning Pain Into Purpose

When it comes to healing through words, Max W. Miller is more than just an author—she’s a literary force driven by a higher purpose. After a diverse and accomplished career that began in psychiatric nursing and evolved into roles as a corporate project manager, real estate broker, and entrepreneur, Max has fully stepped into her calling as a writer, publisher, and healing voice for readers seeking restoration from emotional pain and trauma.

A proud native of Savannah, Georgia, Max’s publishing journey is not just a business—it’s deeply personal. Her latest body of work in the self-help and emotional healing genre is a reflection of her own path toward wholeness. Known for her imaginative beginnings in sci-fi, fantasy, and paranormal fiction, Max now uses her platform to help others confront their past, release shame, and reclaim their purpose.

In our earlier feature, we highlighted her newest release and how it’s resonating with readers across generations. Now, in this exclusive interview, Max opens up about her Southern roots, the life experiences that shaped her writing lens, and the emotional breakthroughs that inspired her shift into trauma-informed storytelling.  To see her exclusive video interview see below...

Get The Scoop On How AI Made Simple Can Help Everyday People Create New Income Streams

Learn How Everyday People are Using AI to Create New Income Streams.

Click Here

✨ Imagine what an extra few hundred dollars — or even a few thousand each month could do for your life. What would that kind of breathing room mean for you?

Join your Host Carol Berry and Coach Joy Mallard for a live, interactive workshop where she’ll show you:

• ✅ How to start using AI to generate income — even if you have zero experience.
• ✅ Why you don’t need to spend 4–8 hours a day making it work (AI does the heavy lifting).
• ✅ Simple steps you can take right away to start building extra income from home.

Get The Scoop On What Healthy Really Means (and Doesn't)

What Does Healthy Mean to You?

What Healthy Really Means (and Doesn’t)
By Afi Okon, MPA, Solutions-Provider focused on wellness and community empowerment. Creator of Let’s Make Healthy, Our New Happy Campaign and Founder, American Obesity Foundation

So, let’s define it — what does "healthy" really mean? It’s not a number on the scale. It’s not a diet plan. And it’s sure not what you see on social media.

Healthy simply, means your family has the energy to live, love, and grow. It means your meals nourish more than your bodies — they bring you together. It means you move your bodies not to punish them, but to celebrate what they can do.

In this campaign, healthy means:

• Feeding your family with love and intention

• Finding joy in movement

• Creating moments of calm, connection, and care

• Building habits that support long-term well-being

• Choosing a Culture of Healthy Living

Healthy doesn’t mean:

• Being perfect or rigid

• Cutting out entire food groups unless necessary

• Comparing yourself to others

• Sacrificing joy for the sake of control

Get The Scoop On How The REMA 4 US Business Fair Promoted Black Economic Development In Far Rockaway, New York

REMA 4 US Business Fair Promoted Black Economic Development In Far Rockaway, New York

By Gail Johnson

The Rockaway East Merchant Association 4 United Synergy (REMA4US) celebrated their annual Business Fair, Saturday, September 13, 2025 on Beach 20th Street in the heart of Downtown Far Rockaway. This year was the 5th consecutive year for this Business Fair which showcases the Small Businesses of Far Rockaway.

The celebration was made possible by partnerships with the Far Rock Village Business Improvement District, the New York Career Training School, Rockaway Development & Revitalization Corporation (RDRC), St. John’s Episcopal Hospital, Joseph P. Addabbo Family Health Center, Wellness Cares, and Cash Dash on the Rock.

Far Rockaway Business Activist Gail Johnson of Ca$h Da$h

Get The Scoop On Award Winning Social Empowering Attorney Zulu Ali Being Recognized by USA Today

Highly Awarded Attorney Zulu Ali Is
Recognized by USA Today

Zulu Ali - Attorney Zulu Ali has been recognized as one of the Top Five Lawyers to Watch in 2025 by USA Today.

Attorney Ali isn’t just practicing law—he’s reshaping the meaning of justice for those often left behind. He founded and now leads the Law Offices of Zulu Ali & Associates, LLP as the principal attorney. The firm is recognized as the largest Black-owned practice in California’s Inland Empire and is ranked among the top five nationwide.

Few attorneys bring the kind of frontline experience Attorney Zulu Ali does. The experience he gained during his time serving in the military and law enforcement inspired him to represent the suppressed voices in court. These voices include immigrants, defendants, and common people looking for justice. His role in appellate matters has contributed to meaningful discussions in the area of immigration law.

Teen Business Prodigy Gabby Goodwin Lands Major Retail Deal in 600 Claire’s Stores

Gabby Goodwin Inventor of
Gabby Bows Lands
Retail Deal in 600 Claire’s Stores

Gabby Goodwin invented GaBBY Bows, the first and only anti-slip double-face double-snap barrette at the age of seven with her mom, Rozalynn, and holds three U.S. patents. The now teenage CEO just landed her GaBBY Bows in 600 Claire’s stores nationwide.

It has been an exciting few months for the recent high school graduate who received merit scholarship offers totaling more than $1 million (including four full rides) from eight esteemed universities before committing to enroll at Vanderbilt University as an Ingram Scholar. Gabby also secured a book deal from HarperCollins, and her first authored children’s book, Naturally Me at the Confidence Salon, was released May 27 everywhere books are sold.

Inspired by Gabby’s real-life Confidence Salon, this picture book inspires young readers to embrace their natural beauty, find their confidence, and follow their dreams.

Gabby’s retail deal with Claire’s has been in the works since May 2024, and though four colors of her GaBBY Bows are being launched in stores while the company is selling most of its North American business to private equity firm Ames Watson, there is still reason to celebrate.

Get The Scoop On How To Create A Thriving Wealth-Building Ecosystem In Your Community

How To Create A Thriving Wealth-Building Ecosystem In Your Community
By Pierre Clark

By Pierre Clark, Managing Partner, NuMillennium Opportunity Capital, Inc.

There are cities and towns in America where Black people are thriving.
Take Atlanta, for example. According to reports, Atlanta is home to more than 11,000 Black millionaires.

Black Atlanteans are eating in restaurants they own, conducting business together, buying real estate from each other, and closing all kinds of deals within their own networks. One brother in real estate estimates that 95% of his business is conducted with other Black people.

Prince George’s County, Maryland, is another locale — home to one of the wealthiest enclaves of Black people in the country. Million-dollar homes owned by Black families sit side by side, supported by a network of Black-owned vendors and service providers.

Get The Scoop On 10 Practical Ways To Generate Wealth Now By Pierre Clark

10 Practical Ways To
Generate Wealth Now
By Pierre Clark

There’s a lot of argument about whether we are in a recession right now.  But there’s no debate at all that for the last year, prices for basic goods and services have risen.

People have felt and are feeling the pinch on their savings and finances and their overall wealth. They are seeking practical right now ways to generate extra income and rebuild their wealth. Here are ten readily accessible ways to do so.

1. Sidehustle. A successful and profitable sidehustle can make/will make the difference between financial independence and struggle in your life. You can leverage all your skills and provide solutions and services that people need at a price you can set.

And you will be in control of a successful business that will provide freedom and income.

 
2. Reducing Expenses.  Another easy to improve your wealth is to cut unnecessary and unwise sending. COVID proved many things we buy (that we think we really need) we don’t.

Don’t buy that extra bag of snacks or hot dog just because you can or think you want it. Don’t spend that extra $10.00 on that streaming account.

Take it from me, reduce expenses and invest the difference. Your bank account and strengthened lifestyle will thank you later.

3. Selling Unused Items. Everything you have ever owned usually comes down to a few things you use or wear all the time and the rest just gathers dust. Sell the unused item if you’ve stopped using it or it no longer serves your needs. Then put the proceeds in an investment account.

Get The Scoop From NY Business Leader Phil Andrews On Why Technology Empowers Black Business Owners.

Op-Ed: Technology Empowers Black Business Owners. Supporting Innovation Will Keep Them Competitive.

By Phil Andrews

August marked National Black Business Month, a time to celebrate the resilience, contributions, and success of Black entrepreneurs. As President Calvin Coolidge once said, “the chief business of the American people is business.”

This is as true today as it was nearly a century ago — and it holds for every American, especially the Black community. Black-owned business creation is surging. From 2017 to 2022, the number of businesses owned by a Black entrepreneur increased by nearly 57%. During those years, at least half of the new businesses were Black-owned.

The US Census estimates that Black entrepreneurs own 3.5 million businesses with an annual payroll of $40.5 billion.

Technology is fueling this boom in entrepreneurship and tearing down barriers. That’s especially true of artificial intelligence.

But to fully unlock AI’s economic potential, policymakers need to ensure that business owners and the workforce of the future are properly equipped to succeed. Albany and Washington should focus on investing in education and workforce training –– and resisting legislation and regulations that stifle rather than support our local innovators.

Get The Scoop On How The Future of Minority and Black Investing May Be A Dream Exchange

Dream Exchange CEO Joe Cecala Discusses Future of Public Capital for Small Business on Yahoo Finance

Joe Cecala, Founder and CEO of Dream Exchange, In July, appeared on Yahoo Finance's "Financial Freestyle" with host Ross Mack to discuss its mission to build a public market that is designed for small and medium-sized companies. During the interview, Mr. Cecala detailed the Dream Exchange's progress towards registering as a national stock market with the Securities and Exchange Commission and its future plan to answer the market's need for a clearer path for capital formation to entrepreneurs from all walks of life with the creation of a venture exchange after the enactment of the Main Street Growth Act into law.

Mr. Cecala explained that for nearly a quarter-century, the path for small, innovative companies to enter the public markets has been largely closed. "By the time they are going to the public markets today, all the wealth creation, all the opportunity to 'get in early and build wealth by making an investment in a company that is emerging', it is gone," said Mr. Cecala.

The Dream Exchange is being built to solve this problem by focusing on the needs of emerging businesses. It will be the first stock exchange that is privately owned by individual investors, earning it the name "The People's Exchange." The objective is to create a trusted and accessible stock exchange in conjunction with a venture exchange where the most imaginative and innovative companies can find the capital they need to grow and thrive.

Get The Scoop On How to Read Nutrition Labels: A Simple Guide for Families By Afi S. Okon, MPA

How to Read
Nutrition Labels:
A Simple Guide for Families

By Afi S. Okon, MPA, Founder American Obesity Foundation

Want to eat healthier but confused by nutrition facts?  Knowing how to read nutrition labels can help you and your family make smarter food choices – especially if you are trying to eat healthier, manage weight, or reduce sugar and salt. This easy guide breaks down how to read nutrition labels in minutes—even for busy parents or beginners!

📌 Why Learn to Read Nutrition Labels?

Understanding what's really in your food can:

• Lead you to cut back on sugar, salt, unhealthy fats and additives

• Make grocery shopping faster and smarter

• Manage or prevent chronic diseases - support healthy weight, heart health, and energy

• Control portion sizes

• Help you stay informed and empowered

If you’re a parent, label reading also helps you make better choices for your kids—whether you’re packing school lunches or buying cereal.

✨Get The Scoop On Dynamic Social Media Influencer Mss. Francois Gracing Prestigious Caribbean Magazine Cover ✨

✨Mss. Francois Graces Prestigious EveryBody's

Caribbean Magazine Cover✨

Caribbean online influencer and relationship coach Mss. Francois is beaming with pride after being featured on the cover of a world-renowned Caribbean magazine—established in 1977 and celebrated globally for showcasing icons of the Caribbean diaspora. This cover moment marks a major milestone in her already remarkable career.

A Long-Awaited Recognition

In her own words:

“This is not an ordinary post... This cover means the most. Why? This magazine been around since 1977 and it goes all over the world,” she wrote, reflecting that everyone worth knowing “have been on the front cover or within these pages.”

What made this moment even sweeter? After three years of emailing the editor, Mr. Herman Hall, with no reply, she received a phone call just two weeks ago—he had finally discovered her messages and, impressed by her credentials, offered her the coveted cover space. Upon receiving the news, she admits she “did a dance… in my underwear, while trying to keep calm.”

Celebrating Growth & Gratitude

Mss. Francois used this milestone to reflect on her personal journey: “This continues to be a journey and I can say I’m truly embracing my growth.” Her feature prompted heartfelt thanks to those who support her along the way—especially editor Herman Hall and collaborator Candice Romany‑Trumpet, who helped craft her story:

“Thank you for being that voice through the trees that I can trust... I greatly appreciate all your hours spent with putting words together that make the pages come to life.”

She concluded with a powerful affirmation: “I will continue until all my dreams/goals are a reality.”

Haitian Entrepreneur Builds New $30M Luxury Real Estate Project in Dominican Republic

Haitian Entrepreneur Breaks Ground on New $30 Million Luxury Real Estate Project in Dominican Republic

Haitian entrepreneur Marcus Boereau has officially launched TAMAN, a $30 million luxury real estate development set to transform the residential landscape in Punta Cana, a major tourist destination and a popular resort area in the Dominican Republic. Inspired by the serene aesthetics of Bali, his real estate project aims to offer a harmonious blend of well-being, sustainability, and high-quality design.

The project comprises 144 upscale apartments and is the first residential development in La Rinconada to commence construction after securing all necessary permits. Boereau emphasized the project’s commitment to excellence, stating, “This is not just another project in Punta Cana; it’s a demonstration of our faith in development and its incredible potential.”

Get The Scoop From Pierre Clark On Tips and Strategies To Get The Money To Start Your Business

Tips and Strategies On

How To Get The Money to
Start Your Business

By Pierre Clark

Stats show that more than 60% of all small business startup funding for a business comes from the founders and personal friends of the founders.  So you'll have to raise the first startup cash yourself and demonstrate your business commitment and your concept's potential before investors will be interested. Here are 10 ways to raise up to $10,000 cash:

1. Host a fundraiser: Create an event, sell 100 tickets at $100 each.

2. Pre-sell your services or products. Sign up potential clients to contracts and collect downpayments on account from each of them.

3. Sell stock shares in your company. If you start a small business corporation in Illinois, you can sell up to $1 million in stock shares usually without registering the company as a public corporation.

4. Hook up with a non-profit organization, start a program built around your product or service and write a grants application to solicit funding though the non-profit.

5. Enter a business plan competition. The Miller Beer Urban Entrepreneur Competition gives out $25,000.00 in grants to business entrpreneurs under 30 who are starting their own businesses. Kool Cigarettes sponsored a similar competition and there are many others.

Black-Owned Tech Company Files Appeal Against Kaiser Foundation Health Plan in $900M Case

Black-Owned Tech Company Files Appeal Against Kaiser Foundation Health Plan in $900M Case

ViQUAL Medical Technology, a Black-owned biotech company, has officially filed an appeal in its legal battle against Kaiser Permanente, which involves a case valued in the neighborhood of $900 million (according to Law360’s March 22, 2024 article by Marl Karpan in LSIPR – Life Sciences Intellectual Property Review’s publication) to well over $1.5 billion based on estimated profits encompassing years 2012 – 2025 and future projections.

Per George McKinney, CEO of ViQUAL Medical Technology, the appeal alleges serious allegations of misconduct, including the theft of Intellectual Property (IP) and Trade Secrets, as well as corporate exploitation of the legal system to prevent small businesses from achieving their rightful success. The case represents not only a challenge for ViQUAL but also underscores the broader systemic issues faced by Black innovators within the healthcare and biotech sectors.

Author Max Miller Releases New Self-Help Book “Blame It on the Feel of Pain” About Detangling From Past Pain

Author Max Miller Releases New Self-Help Book “Blame It on the Feel of Pain” About Detangling From Past Pain

Get ready for a transformational journey toward inner peace as indie author Max W. Miller’s new self-help release, Blame It On The Feel Of Pain, inspires readers in a witty, down-to-earth book. Truth and compassion are foretold, using poetic frames called ‘The Wises,’ and the help of opinionated little emojis bringing laughter and thought-provoking conclusions throughout.

The author encourages her readers, whom she also calls partners, to stop wrestling with the hard knocks of the past. She expresses how voluntarily walking back into time precedes trauma healing. Confronting lingering pains is a step toward strength and hope for the future. ‘Blame It’ delves into the author’s life experiences, bringing to life the importance of using Full Circle Moments to find resolutions.

Throughout Blame It On The Feel Of Pain, the reader grows to understand through a unique interpretation that what we are destined to become grows out of the years we’ve already traveled. Further, our future hinges on how we address the pains of the past. Other expressions focus on how desires in the present are carved out of having a clear vision that old, lingering strongholds must be defeated. A history of suffering is a prerequisite for becoming fed up enough to demand enjoyment now!

Get The Scoop On How Certified Franchise Coach Tamika Franklyn Is Helping Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Certified Franchise Coach
tamika franklyn is Helping
Aspiring Entrepreneurs to
Become Successful Franchise Owners

Tamika Franklyn, a seasoned franchise consultant, speaker, and entrepreneur, has released a new guide for aspiring entrepreneurs entitled Your Franchise Road Map: From Discovery to Decision. Her new book gives step-by-step guidance and affirmations to help readers confidently move from interest to investment in franchising.

It’s more than a how-to manual, it’s an empowering resource filled with affirmations and expert insights designed to demystify the process and move readers from overwhelmed to ownership-ready.

“As a coach, I’ve seen too many talented individuals stall due to fear, confusion, or lack of access to mentorship. This book is the tool I wish more people had when starting their journey,” says Tamika, who is also the founder and CEO of Precision Franchise.

Get The Scoop On The Upcoming Global Series: "Mending Divides," Launching to Connect Women of African Descent Worldwide

Global Series Launches to Connect Women of African Descent Worldwide

Mending Divides: A Journey to Solidarity Debuts June 14, 2025 with keynote Dr. June Soomer current member and former Chair of the UN Permanent Forum on People of African Descent. 

In alignment with the United Nations’ Second International Decade for People of African Descent, the African American Public Policy & Advocacy Group proudly announces the launch of Mending Divides – A Journey to Solidarity: Mending Historic Divides Between Women of African Descent. The inaugural session of this global discussion series will take place on Saturday, June 14, 2025, at 11:00 AM EDT / 1500 hrs UTC.

This landmark initiative aims to bring together women of African descent from across the diaspora to confront historical and cultural divides and co-create a shared path toward solidarity visibility, and in support of the  work of UN Permanent Forum on People of African Descent, the Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent, and aligned with the African Union’s 2025 theme—“Justice for Africans and People of African Descent Through Reparations”—the series serves as a platform for dialogue, healing, and transformative action.

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Keynote Speaker:

The session will be inaugurated by The Honorable Ambassador Dr. June Soomer, current member and former Chair of the UN Permanent Forum on People of African Descent. Dr. Soomer brings over 30 years of leadership in diplomacy, education, development, and reparatory justice, and her voice will set the tone for this powerful international dialogue.

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Session I Theme:

“Who Am I to You and Why Does It Matter?”

An exploration of identity, perception, and how women of African descent can strengthen solidarity across borders and cultures.

Black Wealth Expo Brings $30K Pitch Competition to Queens NY

Black Wealth Expo Brings $30K Pitch Competition to Queens

"Live Investment Opportunity to
Fund Local Black Entrepreneurs at
Resorts World NYC, June 21"

Queens NY June 21, 2025 — A major investment in Black entrepreneurship is coming to Southeast Queens just days after Juneteenth. On Saturday June 21, the Buy. Build. Bond. Black Business and Community Wealth Expo, sponsored by Airbnb and Con Edison will take place at Resorts World New York City with a clear mission: to put real capital directly into the hands of local entrepreneurs.

At the heart of the event is a Live Pitch Competition backed by respected political strategist and investor Patrick B. Jenkins. Jenkins is offering up to thirty thousand dollars in funding and is prepared to invest in multiple businesses based on the strength of their pitches.

This is not a winner takes all moment. Jenkins is looking for founders who are clear about their vision, ready to scale, and willing to offer equity in exchange for long term partnership and support.

“If we want to own our communities and build wealth, someone has to step up and just do it,” said Jenkins. “So I thought this would be a great opportunity to meet entrepreneurs with great ideas, and if they are willing to invest in themselves, then I am willing to invest in them.”

In addition to the investor awards, the competition includes a One Thousand Dollar Audience Pick gift. Attendees will vote for their favorite pitch live. This prize has no strings attached. It is a show of love from the crowd and an extra boost for a promising entrepreneur.