Celebrating 21 Years of Saluting Phenomenal Black Women

An Empowering Event Honoring Women’s History Month

On Saturday, March 23, 2024, the Black Business Association (BBA) will host its 21st annual Salute to Black Women Business Conference, Vendor Faire & Awards Luncheon. This inspiring celebration at the Sheraton Gateway Los Angeles is dedicated to recognizing phenomenal Black women who lead with purpose and advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Event Details

  • When: Saturday, March 23, 2024
    • 8:00 AM: Guest Check-in & Vendor Faire Opens
    • 9:00 AM: General Session (Adult & Youth Panels, U.S. Mint Director Presentation)
    • 10:00 AM: Media Check-in
    • 11:00 AM: Red Carpet
    • 12:00 PM: Awards Luncheon Program
    • 2:30 PM: Dessert Reception & Vendor Faire Finale
  • Where:
    Sheraton Gateway Los Angeles
    6101 W. Century Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90045

Honoring Excellence

This year’s event celebrates trailblazing women and organizations that embody the spirit of advocacy and leadership. Honorees include:

  • Honorable Ventris C. Gibson, U.S. Mint Director and the first African American in this role
  • Stephanie Wiggins, CEO, Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority
  • Rosalind Pennington, President, Red River Enterprises, LLC
  • Southern California Edison, corporate leader in diversity initiatives

Additionally, the event will recognize exceptional awardees in categories like Excellence in Business, Unsung Excellence, and Rising Star, including:

  • Autumn Burke, Principal, Axiom Advisors, LLC
  • Bianca Vobecky, CEO, Vobecky Enterprises, Inc.
  • Brittney Frazier, Founder, N.O.A.H.’s Foundation, Inc.
  • Caprice L. Collins, Esq., Managing Attorney, Collins Law Group
  • And many more!

Event Highlights

This day-long celebration offers a rich program of inspiration, learning, and connection:

  • Youth Forum: “Role Models of Success,” moderated by Dr. Sudonna Moss
  • Symposium: “Women, Money, and Inclusion,” featuring prominent panelists:
    • Arlan Hamilton, Founder of Backstage Capital
    • Stasia Washington, Senior Wealth Manager, Lido
    • Terri Batch, CEO, Global LA
    • And others
  • Special Activities:
    • Tribute to the Harriet Tubman Commemorative Coins
    • “Your First Million” book signing by Arlan Hamilton
    • Beauty/Photo Studio with complimentary headshots and touch-ups
    • Vendor Faire featuring local businesses and resources

Empowering Black Women in Business

“This event uplifts Black women as leaders shaping the future,” shares Sarah R. Harris, BBA CEO. “Aligned with the theme ‘Celebrating Women Who Advocate for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion,’ this year’s program highlights extraordinary women making impactful changes in their communities.”

The conference is supported by sponsors including US Bank, Morgan Stanley, Northrop Grumman, LADWP, SoCalGas, and Southern California Edison, reflecting a collective commitment to fostering equity in business and beyond.

About the Black Business Association

Founded in 1970, the Black Business Association (BBA) is the oldest active ethnic business organization in California, dedicated to advancing Black-owned businesses. With over 50 years of service, the BBA continues to champion economic self-determination and opportunities for Black communities nationwide.

Join Us!

Celebrate the power, resilience, and leadership of Black women at this transformative event. For more information, visit the BBA website.

Contact: Edna Sims, ESP Public Relations
📞 (310) 770-8117 | 📧 [email protected]