BLOCO is more than just a platform or business - it is a lifestyle. BLOCO is an integral part of your daily life and significantly shapes your interests, activities, and social connections. It's great that I have found something meaningful and enriching that helps you connect with others who share similar interests. I hope that BLOCO continues to bring you joy and fulfilment in the future.

A plantbased herbalist helping people with health conditions using herbal remedies and teaching about lifestyle changes. Helping many people change their lifestyles and help them reach goals such as becoming pregnant, reducing blood pressure, helping with womb ailments etc. I completed a 32 day skipping Challenge raising funds to buy herbal products for those with health problems so they can obtain these products absolutely free. I'm very passionate about this work. It's about helping the community live healthier, we are so uneducated in this area. I'm here to help you to know better so changes can be made

Jemz Nailz Salon is situated in the heart of Birminghams Jewellery Quarter and serves clients from far and wide. Jemz Nailz specialises in Sculpted Nail Enhancements using both Acrylic and Gel systems. Natural Nail care included Manicure Pedicure and bespoke design work, ensuring you leave feeling Fabulous whatever the occasion.

Over a year on, from Irie Hours drinks offers, our Live Resident DJs, our extremely popular/fully-booked bottomless brunch and our recently introduced Jerk Sunday Roast, JAMAYA has remained unique and innovative.

JAMAYA, an independent Jamaican restaurant that has become a must-visit venue in one of the most competitive, highly-regarded locations in the heart of Birmingham. An incredible feat.

Get Glammed is a dynamic personal styling service and online business boutique, curated by a team of fashion-forward visionaries. With a passion for empowering individuals through fashion, they elevate wardrobes and boost confidence with their expert styling. From closet revamps to head-turning outfit curation, Get Glammed's stylists cater to every unique taste and occasion. Their online boutique offers a carefully selected collection of trendy and chic pieces, making fashion accessible to all. Founded on the belief that style is a reflection of one's inner essence, Get Glammed empowers clients to embrace their authenticity and shine in every aspect of life.

Security has been made more professional of the years with the introduction of the sia badge but as we know over recent years there are still clubs that have incidents but all the time I hear from customers that they feel safe coming to a fence secured by tlg because they take your safety seriously, from bag searches to body search

True story of rags to riches this young single mother arrived in brum homeless and pregnant no family support and still managed to work hard and open her own business plus she has started a training course to help other young women to get into business, I really was inspired tge moment I met her she deserves to win an aware as she never gave up and kept striving. And she still finds time to be a ambassador for the better perinatal experience for Black women. Natural entrepreneur.

Wavy Wings, a culinary sensation, has taken the food scene by storm since its inception. From humble beginnings as an apartment business to now spreading its wings with a full-fledged shop, their commitment to exceptional service remains unwavering. Customers rave about their mouthwatering wings and delectable seafood dishes, which boast outstanding quality and flavors that tantalize the taste buds. With a relentless dedication to culinary excellence, Wavy Wings has captured the hearts of food enthusiasts far and wide. From cozy gatherings to grand feasts, their sumptuous offerings have become synonymous with unforgettable dining experiences. Prepare to embark on a flavor-filled journey with Wavy Wings - a true taste of culinary perfection.

I am nominating tai for his excellent growth of his brand and all of the inspirational work his is doing along the way and inspiring the work generation by telling and sharing his story across the wider community through workshop and assemblies which he doing in school. What tai is doing is truly incredible and he really deserves to recieve this award to know just how hard work and determination pays off.

Genna's Kitchen, a culinary gem, epitomizes the power of determination and passion. Founded from scratch with unwavering support from family and friends, this business has soared to remarkable success. Led by the visionary Kyhee, the owner, Genna's Kitchen stands as a testament to his unwavering commitment to turning his vision into reality. Despite facing challenges, he persisted with unshakable resolve, both personally and professionally. The outstanding food quality and relentless pursuit of excellence have earned Genna's Kitchen a well-deserved reputation. From their mouthwatering dishes to their acclaimed Genna Juices, this young entrepreneur has created a thriving brand that continues to inspire and uplift the community.

MoJams is a soaring Birmingham based black owned and black led business. It has reinstated faith in the community by providing a diverse range of authentic foods from the Caribbean, remaining professional at all times and ensuring that prices are always reasonable. MoJams also plays a significant role in the local community by supporting elderly, local schools and also, stocking lots of products from small, black owned businesses

Coached Under 14 girls in their first national league season
Coached Under 17s with them winning the YBL league.
Ensures the smooth running of the club by updating parents and ensuring all girls are safe and happy during sessions and games
Manages the website and recruitment of new players
Also amongst all this she still finds time to play basketball herself for the women’s team and GB!

Emmanuel Adeseko is an apostolic voice, leader and business man.

He has been in ministry since he was 15 years old. He is the Founder of New Covenant Ministries based in Birmingham, England where he is the Senior Pastor. His ministry is known for its apostolic tenacity, prophetic grace and teaching of sound doctrine.

Emmanuel Adeseko has not only been advancing the kingdom of God through his ministry efforts but is a qualified social worker with several years of experience. He is also the Director of Excel Midlands Ltd, a social housing provider for vulnerable adults also based in Birmingham, England.

Starting out as a member of Birmingham Black Women Friendship Group, Kamilah has gone on to become admin of the group. She has contributed to the success of the group by continually organising different meetups for women; creating a safe space to allow women to connect and build friendships.

Some of the most popular events have been in collaboration with some local black businesses such as Christophers, Island Lounge and Adians.

Passionate about the cause, Kamilah has invested alot of her time and energy into managing all 3 of their platforms, on top of her own job and her daughter.

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Leon is Married & is also father of 5 Children & has 2 Grand Child. Leon is the Youth & Sport Engagement Manager, who co-ordinates the MAD project. Leon has over 20 years of experience working with young people in such areas as youth offending service, reducing youth violence, prison service, connexions, mentoring in schools, youth service and Continental Star F.C. Since leaving formal education he has been involved in a number of community projects on a paid and voluntary basis.

This has provided him with extensive knowledge, skills and expertise in working with and amongst young people.

Twinsane Fitness, led by Peter & Phillip Sawyers, is a beacon of inspiration in Birmingham, uniting the community and promoting healthier lifestyles. Their fitness classes for the elderly with Ashebo showcase their compassion and dedication. Twinsane Fitness also supports local businesses, creating a collaborative environment. Their impact extends beyond physical transformation, fostering personal growth and empowerment. Through education and community engagement, they shatter misconceptions and empower individuals to make positive choices. Twinsane Fitness breathes life into Birmingham, instilling purpose, vitality, and unity. Their commitment to generations and intergenerational connections fuels transformation and embodies the power of compassion and determination.

Joseph Bailey is a visionary Black-owned businessperson and proud owner of "Noir Experiences," an upscale event company. With a passion for sophistication and creativity, Joseph curates elegant and unforgettable events that leave guests mesmerised. His keen eye for detail and commitment to excellence set him apart in the industry. Harnessing his entrepreneurial spirit, Joseph founded Noir Experiences to redefine event planning, bringing diversity and inclusivity to the forefront. Through his exceptional leadership, Joseph has cultivated a team of talented professionals, making Noir Experiences a premier destination for those seeking refined and captivating gatherings. Joseph's dedication to excellence continues to shape the future of event management.

This young lady is a single mother who has a passion for make up and beautifying women and men. She has worked lives in Birmingham and took train to Manchester weekly to increase her skills as well as graduating from university twice in make up. She has worked on peaky blinders press release for the musical promotion, video shoots and music videos. She is a lovely person that just brings that extra special touch with her clients going out of her way to accommodate. She is special she deserves to feel it as she is so humble.

Meet Mark Dwayne, the visionary founder of "Street Cred Magazine." With a passion for entertainment, Mark created this revolutionary publication, where all your entertainment needs are met in one place. From the latest chart-topping music tracks to insightful film reviews and cutting-edge fashion trends, Street Cred Magazine offers an unrivaled perspective on the world of entertainment. Mark's dedication to curating the best content has earned the magazine the moniker "The Eye of Entertainment." With Street Cred Magazine, Mark aspires to connect readers with the pulse of the entertainment industry, making it a must-read for enthusiasts seeking the latest and greatest in the world of entertainment.

Olu Amidupe, owner of RG8 Services, is a seasoned professional in the Facilities Management industry. With over 22 years of experience, Olu's commitment to excellence shines through in the high-quality services his company provides. Rigorous staff vetting according to industry standards ensures a skilled and reliable team. As a multi-service provider, RG8 Services excels in designing bespoke solutions that surpass client expectations. Guided by principles of professionalism and quality, Olu fosters a culture of partnership and respect among employees, clients, and customers. While security remains a core focus, RG8 Services continuously evolves to meet customer-specific demands, offering competitive solutions for all facility management needs.

The Black Criminology Network are a force to be reckoned with. Since coming out a couple of years ago, they have done so much for the global Black community within Criminology. It's crazy to think they are a small Birmingham based company

The Black History Activity Books have been designed to inspire and educate young people on some of the greatest figures in history. The books use a series of puzzles and activities to stimulate the minds of the reader whilst aiding them to learn in a fun and exciting way.

We believe that it is our responsibility to inspire and educate our children about their history. There are many positive black role-models that are truly inspirational. No longer will they be kept away from us and hidden in the shadows and their contributions to be ignored! We highlight these role-models, giving young people a greater sense of self thus building confidence. We believe that educating young people about our achievements, contributions to society and this civilisation is of paramount importance.

Making Maths Matter provides invaluable online and face to face support to young people in need of maths support. There is a lot of free content that is engaging and accessible to the community. Making maths matter provided free engaging online classes for students with gaps in their learning from lockdowns.

Yasmin is an integral part of a new edge movement recognising an unseen space between Black lives and social occupancy. Her contributions have been deemed as progressive and revolutionary in the aspects of family trauma and ricochet effect across generations and wider community. Especially regarding the recent published work which has received international praise and has provided innovative insight and guidance to the racial/social justice topic.

Armani is a Birmingham born entrepreneur who founded his business Take Risks and Prosper in 2016 in the small bedroom of his family home. Today he has black owned shop in Bullring shopping Centre. The brand Take Risks is now an established streetwear brand that has firmly put Birmingham on the map with major UK artists such as Central Cee, Digga D, Potter Payper and Birmingham artists, MIST and Millionz all wearing the clothing. From humble beginnings he grew his business from selling clothing from the back of his car and then he established an online store and today Take Risks has a flagship store in Bullring. Armani believes in giving other entrepreneurs and artists a platform to share their stories and so he developed a podcast called “Conversation with a Risk Taker” that has over 2.5 million views across the channel.

I create handmade holistic hair skin & well-being products using oils, herbs & fruit extracts. My products offer a holistic approach to skin and hair care which will lead to clearer, vibrant skin, and healthier hair, and promote and restore curl patterns, locs maintenance, and beard hair care.

I'm Michelle Johnson, CEO of Floral Glory UK. I'm a creative; passionate about styling events and wowing clients with before and after possibilities. I've discovered a passion for flowers. Previously a Senior Social Worker of 21 years, floristry is the complete opposite, but allows me to combine my two loves; creating unique design whilst supporting people through the happiest or saddest times of their lives. I also do corporate events, award shows, tutorials, pouring my heart into everything I do. I'm constantly told my hands are my gifts so I guess they are the gifts that keep on giving.

Rashida Malcom, the master stylist behind Shida Styles, boasts over three decades of hairstyling expertise. Renowned as Birmingham's premier loctician, she possesses an exceptional talent for creating stunning dreadlocks. Beyond her unmatched skills, Rashida's kind and down-to-earth nature endears her to clients, making each visit an uplifting experience.

Hey, my name is Sinéad but, most just call me Néad (Nayd). I’m a 32 year old caterer/chef of my own business, Néad’s Cook Ups. Starting in 2019 after having my daughter, the business has grown from success to success! I’ve done catering for events such as BOXOUT, TPLU, Empower Poetry, Sports Days, Black History Events, Weddings, Funerals, Birthdays, corporate companies such as DLA Piper, the Crown Prosecution Services, all from my very own kitchen at home.

Tamore, the talented nail artist behind Tamore Nails, has been perfecting her craft for over a decade. As a skilled and experienced female nail technician, she is dedicated to creating beautiful and intricate nail designs that leave her clients feeling pampered and stylish. Her passion for nail art shines through in every stunning manicure and pedicure she provides.

Daniel is a very talented individual, who has a very unique spirit as far as media is concerned. From designing, video editing, writing, spoken word and directing. He deserves the recognition for the consistent talents he has displayed over the years in the world of media

DJ G-ZEE, the Birmingham-based maestro, brings a distinctive touch to the turntables, transcending genres effortlessly. Renowned for his technical prowess and unparalleled mixing skills, he stands out from the crowd with his one-cut remixes, unheard of by any other DJ. More than just a selector, DJ G-ZEE embodies the essence of a true DJ, infusing each set with a creative flair that captivates audiences. From pulsating beats to soulful rhythms, he orchestrates an unforgettable musical experience that leaves crowds craving more. With a passion for pushing boundaries and defying conventions, DJ G-ZEE is a musical trailblazer and a force to be reckoned with.

I am an upcoming deejay out in the midlands in the early years of deejaying that started out on a prominent sound system. Now later years on, branching out from that sound, I re established YOUNG IMMORTAL SOUND and pursued my deejay journey. Now continuing my journey, I am now taking bookings for all types of events in Birmingham alongside other cities showcasing my talent. I have worked with numerous upcoming artists in my deejaying career journey showcasing their talent.

Jesse is a highly acclaimed freelance photographer with 20+ years of international experience. Throughout his photography career, John has had the opportunity to capture stunning images across the UK and overseas. His unique style, blending attention to detail with an ability to capture the essence of his subjects, resonates with viewers on an emotional level. Beyond his photography, Jesse trains and mentors aspiring photographers and utilises his craft for social and environmental advocacy. His unwavering dedication has made him a renowned figure in the industry.

Entertaining crowds of up to 10,000 people at Caribbean Rock festivals (Birmingham and Manchester), Leeds carnival, Birmingham club and event scene including town centre and the jewellery quarter. Giving 100's of music artists, businesses and other social enterprises the platform to reach wider audiences and to 'shine'. Holding yearly award ceremonies (for several years now) recognising individuals and organisations for their achievements and contributions in the community. Taking their musical talents and excellence internationally (Turkey Weekender, Amsterdam, Jamaica, USA). Planning and managing to play at numerous events in one night.

Hair Popp is a digital beauty and lifestyle brand with a two-fold mission - to get quality natural hair care and lifestyle products into as many homes across the globe, and to empower independent, black businesses. Hair Popp has been invited to exhibit at Facebook headquarters, high street banks and some of the UK’s largest hair shows. After the official launch of the Nevis pop-up shop in 2022, a successful back-to-school hair braiding and barbering event and the film screening of Sorf Hair, Hair Popp decided to build events into the offering, including a hackathon in Birmingham.
Dominique is a female tech entrepreneur who has an emotional connection with the advancement of her community. She is passionate about using the latest technology and digital media to empower and uplift the black economy. As a millennial and a business owner, one of her biggest qualities is networking and connecting with people.

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Premium Payments is a leading provider of affordable payment solutions catering to businesses of all sizes. With a comprehensive range of services, including PDQ card machines, EPOS systems, online payment facilities, and payment links, they empower businesses to offer seamless payment experiences to their customers. Combining cutting-edge technology and unmatched expertise, Premium Payments ensures secure and efficient transactions, bolstering business growth and customer satisfaction. Their commitment to excellence has earned them a reputation as a reliable and innovative partner in the ever-evolving world of payment solutions, helping businesses thrive in today's competitive market.

Fungai Ndemera is a highly accomplished multi-entrepreneur, angel investor, business mentor, and STEM ambassador. As the tech founder of CheckUp Health, she has revolutionized healthcare with an NHS Digital-approved multilingual one-stop hybrid care platform. This innovative platform enables users to book video and online consultations, monitor personal health indicators, and much more on their devices. With a focus on diversity and inclusion, CheckUp Health stands out as the only digital health clinical system with culturally sensitive engagement metrics, catering to patients from various backgrounds. Fungai's dedication to addressing health inequalities and improving patient support has been recognized through her transformative work and the groundbreaking book "The all dots digital transformation model." Amidst doctor shortages and the impact of COVID-19 on chronic patients, Fungai's vision has become an indispensable tool in the healthcare industry, paving the way for a healthier and more inclusive future.

Shimron Equiano, the visionary founder and CEO, emerged from personal adversity to create the game-changing marketing platform, BlocSquared. After losing his mother and brother to cancer, he reflected on his life's purpose and launched this innovative venture in 2021. BlocSquared offers "digital real estate," empowering side-hustlers and established businesses with a unique marketing tool. For just £199 + VAT, a Bloc owner gains access to an exclusive online community, expert team support, and a chance to support Sustainable Development Global Goals. With a mission to revolutionize advertising for SMEs, BlocSquared's user-friendly platform connects businesses with new audiences, transcending the limitations of traditional paid advertising.

I GET RESULTS FITNESS is a fitness brand based in the West Midlands with the founder & CEO Omari having over 12 years experience in the fitness industry.

Omari made the brand in 2018 and has built the brand up to become one of the most known and popular fitness brands in the Midlands and surrounding area. He has also just recently opened his own gym in West Bromwich.

IGR offer services including Personal Training, Group Exercise Instructing, Online Coaching. Nutritional Advice, Sports Massage. Level 2 & 3 Diploma In Gym Instructing & Personal Training Courses.

Sports Key is a Birmingham based not for profit Community Interest Company (CIC) which exists to improve the wellbeing, cohesion, and life opportunities of disadvantaged people within our community. We aim to bring positive action and remove barriers to enable cohesion of people from all backgrounds particularly ethnically diverse groups by utilising physical activity as the vehicle to drive transformational change.

Generally, we utilise the power sport to impact issues which are affecting our community. The type of services that we offer are a menu of physical activity, cultural events, youth mentoring and what we call a 'community of practice'

Holford Drive Community Sports Hub emerged as a result of the City Council's call for local clubs and community organisations to unite and take on the lease responsibility for the run-down Holford Drive Playing Fields site. The aim was to promote sports participation, but due to limited resources, the Council sought external support. In 2012-2014, substantial capital investments were made to renovate the facility, lacking changing rooms and necessary improvements. Under the Community Asset Transfer policy, the site was transferred to the HUB in November 2013. Four anchor clubs, alongside Broadway Academy, joined forces to create the HUB, dedicating their time and effort to secure a £2.3 million investment for attractive and functional new facilities. Initiated by Lincoln Moses, the Holford Drive Community Sports Hub now stands as a thriving venue encouraging sports engagement and community development.

Matthew "Farda" Byfield (6-1-0, 1 NC) is a renowned Pro MMA Fighter hailing from England, boasting an impressive record and earning the #9th rank as Pro Men's Light Heavyweight in the United Kingdom & Ireland. Known for his exceptional skills and dedication to the sport, Farda has garnered a reputation as a formidable competitor in the MMA world. With a strong passion for mixed martial arts, he continues to shine in the cage, captivating audiences with his remarkable performances. As a rising star in the MMA scene, Matthew "Farda" Byfield's talent and determination promise an exciting future in the sport.

Our aim is to provide football lovers with all the tools they need to go out and enjoy all that the beautiful game of football has to offer without the pressure!

We pride ourselves on delivering the most “Football FUNatic” coaching sessions, parties and events services in and around Birmingham. With over 15 years experience and holding qualifications in football coaching, play work, youth work, safeguarding and event co-ordinating.

Our dbs approved and first aid trained staff are ready to turn you into a Football Funatic!!

Ebony has given most of her life to her passion. Mixed with gymnastics Ebony has competed around Europe, often without her parent, breaking down racial and social barriers. Ebony really is resilient in the face of adversity and her talent and drive speak for itself!

Family team of 7 (5 of which were teenagers), still going strong and is proven by growth and results.
The business celebrated two years in March 2023 and has privately catered for many special occasions, christening, weddings, funerals. They have also had the pleasure to cater for the following celebs;
- BurnaBoy, Popcaan, DingDong, jada Kingdon, IQ, Shan O, MC Buskin, Mist, Ben Whittaker, Sugar Hill Stewart, Alison Hammond, Ryan Taylor, the list goes on!...

Firstly the Doreen's Kitchen teams biggest achievement is opening their shop in the most perfect location (west brom/stone cross) where us customers were lacking the Caribbean taste of things. They have appreciation award from the 2022 commonwealth games which was presented by Mark Lewis Francis.
They have catered for events with BCC, Sandwell Council, Dudley Council and multiple kids out of hours/holiday clubs providing them with delicious food and building their brand.

Dave "Tallis" Gordon is the Director at Grandad’s Tastee Patties, a beloved family-run takeaway just steps away from The Hawthorns. The shop's authentic Jamaican patties, featuring a variety of delectable fillings and spices, draw crowds beyond football match days and attract customers from all walks of life, not just West Brom fans. Following in his family's footsteps, Dave took over from his grandfather, the original owner, affectionately known as 'grandad' in the local community. During the Covid-19 lockdown, Dave and his friend Prince revived the business, turning it into a resounding success, with thousands of patties sold weekly and slushies being a weekend hit. Customers worldwide even enjoy the treats, making Dave proud of the shop's global reach.

Since our opening in 2018 Island Lounge has grown and developed into becoming a proud staple in the community of Wednesbury and surrounding areas. Loved by our customers for providing top quality food, drinks, customer service and overall experience.
We are proud to be an independent restaurant & bar with family at our heart. All our food is prepared with thoughts of the Caribbean in mind. We want you to get lost in the music, vivid colours and unmistakable flavours that can only be experienced through Jerk Chicken, Fried Dumpling, Curry Goat, Guinness Punch to name a few.
Our passion comes from a genuine love of food and our roots in Caribbean culture and we want to share this with everyone who experiences Island Lounge. We are proud to have created an environment for friends, family and everyone to enjoy.

Tyrone Gordon is the esteemed owner of TGS Barbers, a thriving barbershop where he honed his craft as a master barber. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for the art of grooming, Tyrone has created a haven for clients seeking top-notch haircuts and grooming services. As a skilled professional, he is known for his exceptional barbering skills, creating stylish and tailored looks that leave clients feeling confident and satisfied. Through his dedication to his craft and commitment to providing excellent customer service, Tyrone has built a loyal clientele, making TGS Barbers a go-to destination for those seeking a top-tier barbering experience.

Craig Pinkney is a Criminologist, Urban Youth Specialist, and Chief Executive of SOLVE: The Centre for Youth Violence and Conflict. Craig is an experienced worker and academically holds a BA (Hons) in Youth & Community Development (JNC), Post Graduate Certificate in Teaching and Learning, Post Graduate Certificate in Research, Masters Degree in Criminology and is currently a PhD Researcher in Social Sciences at Birmingham City University.

Craig has over 18 years of experience as an outreach worker, transformational speaker, international gang exit strategist, training facilitator, mediator, mentor and filmmaker. Craig Pinkney is nationally and internationally known for working with some of the country's most challenging young people, potentially high-risk offenders, victims of gang violence and youth who are deemed most hard to reach.

Natalee Barnett, a British YouTuber and fitness influencer with over 400k followers, is an advocate against harassment of women in gyms, and has collaborated with apparel company Gymshark to spread awareness around the issues. She is also studying to become a personal trainer, after quitting her job in Sainsbury's in 2018 to set up her own business selling workout guides and equipment, and is working towards launching The G Spot, a women's only gym in Birmingham.

Malachi Nunes is the director of Ambitious Lives CIC.
He grew up living with undiagnosed dyslexia and ADHD in the 90s and struggled with school. This led to him to show challenging behaviours and receiving over 50 school letters and loads of exclusions. From a young age, he also cared for my sister who was severely disabled but died at 16. Malachi suffered from a stammer which caused many obstacles in his life, but he turned his special powers into strengths and gained loads of skills from a lived experience, which now helps others.

Pariss Sailsman is a multi-talented individual, donning various hats with grace and skill. By day, she serves as a Multi-systemic Family Therapist, empowering families with structured therapies like behavioral and cognitive behavioral therapy. She specializes in assisting families with children at risk of entering the care system or the criminal justice system. By night, Pariss is the visionary Founder of Journal To Dreams, a vibrant community empowering women to live authentically, free from society's expectations. Through workshops, coaching, and mentoring, she guides women to embrace their purpose and reach their highest potential. Pariss's journey from personal mindset shift to empowering others has been transformative, inspiring countless women on their paths to abundance and fulfillment.

She's been a DJ for a while, but has really made a huge impact since the Commonwealth Games that happened in Birmingham. She's really bringing Netball to the front and making it more well known as well as being the DJ that she is

She recently won a SHE Award for Remarkable Woman, DJ'd at the Commonwealth Games 2022 and now is known as the Netball DJ. She's DJ'd on Sky Sports, BBC, Channel 4 and was on the front cover of Grazia Magazine. She's an ambassador for Project Embrace promoting natural Afro textured hair. I remember her saying that for Grazia they wanted her to wait a wig, but as ambassador of project Embrace she was adamant her own hair had to be on display. Also after suffering numerous pregnancy losses including a still birth she went on to become ambassador for Pinks and Blues a pregnancy loss support group.

Eden is a contemporary artist who creates celebratory paintings of black and brown women. Eden states, “I want to empower women that look like me. Every woman should be celebrated without a doubt, however representation is key and it’s very rare that I can go into any of my local art gallery’s and see paintings of women who represent my culture…so instead of complaining about it, I simply play my part in trying to change it. Honouring women through my art is my way of making a small change in what should already be a diverse field."

Having graduated from uni in 2015 after studying specialist Hair & makeup many thought my degree was pointless and that makeup was not a ‘career’. I worked hard trying to prove them wrong by doing makeup for special occasions and built up a client base and my business. It was hard and many times I wanted to give up not making enough money to support my 2kids. Fast forward to 2022/23 I have seen my name in the credits on mainstream Tv in my profession 5 times and had my best financial year to date with all thanks to the my Talent, dedication and perseverance as it’s got me exactly where I dreamt of being and now people are realising that makeup IS and can be a career! This award would help show those that still don’t believe or don’t want to believe that my journey and career choice IS recognised and appreciated . I am regularly recommended on your Facebook group and feel the need to nominate myself as I don’t think anyone would think to nominate my career path as entrepreneurial.. would love to show them that is is!

I admire the work Ryan has done for arts and poetry. He has an aim to elevate minority groups in the poetry world whilst also paying them for as many opportunities as he can as the industry tends not to pay poets
Created his own poetry night - empower poetry
Pays poets to perform at the poetry night
Pays creatives to be workshop leads - empower workshops
Does work for youths in schools

4 years ago, she quit her corporate 9 - 5 (as a Railway Construction Project Manager) to start a new scary adventure in the hair industry. Since then, her business has survived the pandemic, she's trained as a qualified Hairdresser and accredited Hair Extension Specialist, she's opened her 1st salon, started a textured hair extension line and started growing her
team.

Her business, Nishkin Hair, was also voted 5th in the West Midlands for Hair Extensions at the UK Hair & Beauty Awards this year. 2 years ago, she was number 33! The sky is the limit for her!

The story behind Sanaa Gift shop began in 2021 when founder Nyomi Smith spotted a niche gap in the gifts market whilst looking for wrapping paper containing a Black Father Christmas.

Nyomi a graphics designer took it upon herself to create wrapping paper with a black Father Christmas, she then began creating cards and other wrapping paper that would resemble, up-to-date, black culture.
Nyomi has been selling and networking to get her products seen. She has been on her local news channel about her business, was featured in the Voice newspaper and even met his majesty Prince Charles
Since then her products and designs have now been spotted on billboards all over the uk, including Birmingham, Bristol and london.

Merrimaid Fritters is a thriving food business that specializes in crafting the best-tasting fritters in Birmingham. Made from high-quality ingredients and through traditional techniques, the company produces a range of delectable fritters that customers can't resist. With an unwavering commitment to providing only the best, Merrimaid Fritters has become a household name with a loyal following. The company prides itself on using locally-sourced and organic ingredients, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor and nutrition. With a wide range of flavors to choose from, Merrimaid Fritters is the go-to destination for anyone looking for fritters.
At Merrimaid Fritters, we believe that great taste, sustainability, and social responsibility can all come together in one delicious snack. That's why our fritters are made with only the freshest ingredients all locally sourced, crafted by hand in small batches to ensure that each bite is perfect.

My husband and I, Mr & Mrs Wright started Wright Slice Butchers out of a desire for fresh meat. We were fed up of buying bad quality meat and noticed a gap in the market for a Black Butchers, so we took a leap of faith and set up. We faced difficulty sourcing a variety of suppliers and trialled many until we were satisfied. We have been gobsmacked by the response we have received and in 9 months we have outgrown our premises.

We sell meat, fish and groceries, although based in Walsall we deliver across Birmingham and West Midlands. We supply caterers, small business chefs and a restaurant.

Our USP is that we sell preseasoned meat, i.e. curry mutton, brown stew chicken, curry chicken, bbq wings, jerk chicken quarters and much more. Lots of working people and parents have given us great feedback on this.

The owners and workers in this business are very determinded and have shown persistance in trying to
keep their business going, selling a good range of alcohol, black food groceries, black hair products, they also now sell the nicest caribbean food on a friday and saturday plus many many more, its definately what was needed in the location they are besed in, in Nechells

Pat Black has always been ambitious and passionate about West Indian food. His journey as a chef started in his teens where he started off learning the basics at college and went on to develop his culinary skills to perfection.

Over the years, life took Pat Black in many different directions regarding his career. However, he felt unfulfilled and always had the feeling that something was missing.

Princess, the talented soul behind Like a Princess Aesthetics, brings a unique blend of artistry and medical expertise to her craft. As a registered nurse with a flair for aesthetics, she gracefully combines her knowledge of skincare and beauty treatments. With less than a year of experience, Princess's passion for enhancing natural beauty shines through her work, and her caring nature ensures clients feel safe and valued throughout their visit. Whether administering skincare treatments or creating enchanting makeup looks, Princess's dedication to both her nursing profession and aesthetics promises an extraordinary experience that leaves clients feeling truly pampered and beautiful.

Alison Cope is a resilient and inspiring advocate for young people who have faced trauma and challenges. Her life has been marked by various forms of adversity, including the devastating loss of her son Joshua to knife crime in 2013. Drawing on her strength, Alison uses her experiences to educate and support others, engaging with thousands of young people through presentations and visits to schools, prisons, and alternative education provisions across the UK. In memory of Joshua, she founded the Joshua Ribera Achievement Awards, an annual event celebrating the achievements of young individuals not in mainstream education. Alison's compelling story and unique ability to connect with young minds have changed countless lives.

Director and Co-founder of B Events.
The events under the brand are Birmingham Awards, Midlands Food Drink & Hospitality Awards, Women In Tech, Inspirational Youth Awards and Midlands Property and Investment Awards. Anita has a background in media and has worked on publications covering Northampton and Birmingham and has a publication called the Asian Today. Through the awards Anita is able to connect, inspire and celebrate everyone from all sectors and communities.

Darnish has been a youth worker for 20 years and has won multiple awards over the years working with young people who are hard to reach, He has gone above and beyond to support young people and was put forward to carry the Queens Boton for the recognition of his work, he has led on Birmingham U.K Parliament, was appointed as the youth violence interrupter, Led on the mentoring violence prevention programme for the West midlands pcc training 13 young ambassador to deliver workshops on knife crime, as well as being a stop and search trainer
Darnish was honoured an MBE in the kings honours list for his hard work and dedication to young people and the community

Mr. Khan is asian but the proud owner of Authentic Jamaican Food Store, on dudley road serving the community for 25 years, offering a delightful array of Jamaican cuisine. With passion and authenticity, he brings the flavors of Jamaica to life, serving the community with delicious dishes that capture the essence of the Caribbean.

This young lady is amazing, so dedicated and hardworking and has achieved so much in her 22 years so far. I have no doubt that she will be a millionaire one day, her work ethic is just second to none as is her attitude and drive. She encompasses everything positive in a young person and is a phenomenal role model for all those around her. She is at the top of her game and already has her eye set on more.

Joshua Naraldo, a dynamic entrepreneur under 30, is the visionary owner of Lab Studios, a renowned hub for celebrities seeking top-notch recording facilities. His passion for music and entertainment led him to create the iconic 'Who Run the Dancehall' event, drawing crowds from across the industry. With boundless energy and innovation, Joshua's ventures are reshaping the entertainment landscape. Lab Studios serves as a creative haven, providing cutting-edge resources for artists to thrive. As a young trailblazer, he showcases remarkable business acumen, propelling his ventures to unparalleled success. With Joshua at the helm, Lab Studios and 'Who Run the Dancehall' continue to dominate the spotlight, heralding a new era of excellence in the entertainment world.

Kaycie Francis, a remarkable individual born with cerebral palsy, embraced a path of resilience and triumph in the barbering world. Despite facing discrimination due to his disability, he defied stereotypes and proved his exceptional talent. As clippers hummed, Kaycie's journey began, starting from humble days where clients hesitated to sit in his chair. Undeterred, he embraced being the underdog, showcasing his artistry and skill. With each fade and cut, perceptions transformed, and Kaycie's reputation as one of the best barbers blossomed. Today, he stands tall with 24 million views and 72,000 followers on TikTok, inspiring others and demonstrating that passion and talent know no boundaries.

Jay Williams, the visionary founder of Hoodrich, embarked on a remarkable journey since establishing the brand in 2014. Born and raised in Birmingham, he transformed his passion for underground streetwear, coupled with musical influences and sartorial knowledge, into a thriving business. From humble beginnings as a one-man venture, Hoodrich has evolved into an international sensation, adorning the likes of K-Trap, 50 Cent, Ashley Walters, Giggs, Mist, and Jaykae. With a £200 startup, the first 30 tees were crafted, paving the way for the launch of Hoodrich Womens and expanding its presence across the US & Europe. As Hoodrich prepares to conquer the world, Jay's indomitable spirit and creativity continue to drive its success.

I think it was last summer Chardell was assaulted in her salon by a client in which they destroyed her salon and badly assaulted her resulting in some loss of vision. Despite this she came in the following week & replaced everything just in time for my birthday appointment. I honestly think she is an unsung hero and is doing great for her age!

We educate. We empower. We inspire. We support. The girls of today will one day be the women of tomorrow

Crossroads Housing and Support CIC is more than just a housing provider. We are a team of passionate individuals dedicated to making a difference in our community. Our mission is to empower individuals to lead independent lives. We are passionate about providing support and care to those who need it most. We offer a range of services and support designed to help our residents find work, education, and other opportunities to build a better future. Our housing options are designed to provide a stable and secure environment, where residents can focus on their personal growth and development.

We are She Beasts CIC, a small but motivated company specialising in wellbeing it is the heart of our business. We believe passionately that through movement, mindset and nutrition lives can be transformed. We have committed ourselves to giving our clients a range of services that not only educate but gives them an opportunity to build positive relationships with themselves and their communities.

Bouncing Statistics is a Community Interest Company deriving in Birmingham. Our mission is to create a world where generations are inspired to look beyond their normality. We do this by providing individuals aged 4 to 25 with the skills via mentoring and sports to develop beyond their circumstances. Aligning with our vision of creating a future where the statistic doesn’t define you. Pushing many to ‘overcome the misunderstood conception’, thus being their best selves. Initially working by completing food giveaways and offering free mentoring services to many younger adults living within areas of deprivation. Following this, the impact has widened to which bouncing statistics now deliver mentoring and personal development, sessions in schools across the West Midlands. Further to this Bouncing Statistics has also partnered up with the West Midlands police, creating community events, delivering stop and search training to officers, and building bridges between the community and the police via school workshops. Throughout, liaising directly with The Chief Superintendent Richard North, Head of force response. Allowing such measures to be implemented across the officers who arguably are in contact with young people the most. We also recently developed a tutoring aspect for the company, as we are well aware of the barriers many young people face when trying to achieve their best learning outcomes. Our tutoring programme has been created in order to help bridge the gap by providing academic support.

Our mission is to inspire, promote, engage and produce impactful solutions to some of the most critical issues we face in our communities. Join our community of activists, allies & support workers as we work towards a better and more safer enriched community and world.