Black entrepreneurs are committing to their community and coming together to offer a $2,000 scholarship for two HBCU undergraduate students. Four businesses have teamed together for this initiative: Lauren and Zevi Lacey, Founders of Urban Business Directory, CEO Wesley Jacques of BlueDrem Media & Marketing Services, Gia Mac, CEO of Infinite 7 and Ashley Johnson, Owner of the Vegan Chef Ash brand. They have partnered together to create a collective call to action to give back to the community that has continued to support their dreams.
“As black business owners, we want to show our love and appreciation to the upcoming generation so the Step into Greatness Scholarship will be rewarded to passionate individuals who are making a positive impact in the community,” Lauren Lacey said.
The goal of this initiative is to empower young people to pursue successful careers despite any roadblocks that may come their way. These black business owners want to express their support and encouragement for students by offering to forgo the expenses of tuition for two lucky students.
“Food, expenses, and tuition are expensive, so I am truly honored to be in a position to pour into the lives of young people by any means necessary. Our college students need to be uplifted because they are the pillars of the future,” Jacques said.
In these ever-changing times, being able to pause and think about the future of the world is imperative. For these five black entrepreneurs, it was not an easy road to get to where they are today, which is why this scholarship presents a full circle moment for many of these innovative business owners.
“Entrepreneurship takes a lot of work and dedication, and we believe it’s our responsibility to champion those who have the dedication and drive to go after their dreams, especially at such young ages,” Mac said.
By cultivating this call to action for HBCU students, these entrepreneurs hope to be a source of encouragement, especially to those who go on to curate Black businesses. In addition to providing financial relief for students, this crafted partnership plans to continue in their collective support of assisting the community through scholarships, conferences and funding individuals interested in attaining professional certifications.
“I am inspired by stories of perseverance and people who have a desire to serve,” Johnson said. “I am looking forward to giving back to a community that continues to love and root for me. My core clients are people who understand the importance of a healthy mind, body, and soul. I accept all opportunities for me to practice what I preach and help young people step into their greatness in all aspects of life.”
The recipients of the scholarships will be announced July 7.
