Long Beach Black News Paper Inc. Local Long Beach, CA Black News

Business Leaders Unite in Long Beach for Elevate 2025, Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. & Economic Empowerment

Celebrating Unity, Legacy, and Generational Wealth

On January 20, 2025, the Southern California Black Chamber of Commerce will host a transformative event, Elevate 2025: A Celebration of Legacy & Leadership, in Long Beach. This event coincides with the national observances of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Inauguration Day, offering a powerful opportunity to honor Dr. King’s vision of unity, equity, and economic empowerment.

The Southern California Black Chamber of Commerce (SCBCC) is proud to announce that it will receive a Certificate of Recognition from the office of Mayor Rex Richardson at the highly anticipated Elevate 2025 Business Summit.

Held at Sports Basement in Long Beach, Elevate 2025 will feature a day of workshops, engaging panel discussions, live musical performances and inspiring keynote addresses, followed by a prestigious black-tie dinner celebrating leaders who exemplify Dr. King’s ideals. This gathering is not just a tribute to Dr. King’s work but a platform for action aimed at addressing the economic challenges facing communities today.

A Vision Rooted in Dr. King’s Legacy

Dr. King’s fight for economic justice and generational prosperity remains as relevant as ever. His vision for an equitable society was rooted in empowering communities to build sustainable futures. Today, with rising costs and increasing inequality, the message of economic empowerment resonates deeply. Elevate 2025 embodies this vision, offering attendees the tools, knowledge, and connections necessary to tackle these challenges head-on.

As Sharifah Hardie, President of the Long Beach Chapter of the Southern California Black Chamber of Commerce, explains, “Dr. King’s message wasn’t just about hope, it was about action. Elevate 2025 is about creating opportunities that empower individuals to build lasting wealth and prosperity for themselves and their families.”

Event Highlights

Morning & Afternoon Sessions (11:00 AM)
The day will feature a series of free workshops, presentations, and panels focused on entrepreneurship, financial literacy, wealth-building strategies, and creating pathways to generational success. Industry leaders and experts will offer valuable insights on how attendees can navigate today’s economic landscape and make meaningful progress toward their goals.

Fundraising Banquet & Leadership Awards (12 PM – 6:00 PM)
The evening will culminate in a special dinner, where the “I’ve Been to the Mountaintop” Leadership Awards will honor individuals and organizations that have demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment to the principles of unity, equity, and innovation. This elegant event will provide an opportunity for networking and reflection on how we can continue to advance Dr. King’s dream in the modern era.

Why Now?

In a time of economic uncertainty, unity, and innovation are more critical than ever. Elevate 2025 serves as a platform for business leaders, entrepreneurs, and community stakeholders to come together and forge partnerships that can drive real, sustainable change. The event is an opportunity to build a stronger, more resilient community where everyone can thrive.

Get Involved

Businesses and organizations have the unique opportunity to sponsor Elevate 2025 and showcase their commitment to the values of empowerment and progress. Sponsors will gain national exposure and connect with a diverse audience of community leaders and professionals who are committed to creating lasting change.

Register Today: REGISTRATION

Sponsorship Inquiries: Long Beach Chapter President Sharifah Hardie at (562) 822-0965 or email Sharifah@BlackChamberofCommerce.org

About the Southern California Black Chamber of Commerce

The Southern California Black Chamber of Commerce (SCBCC) is dedicated to supporting Black entrepreneurs, professionals, and business owners across the region. From the desert to the sea, SCBCC provides the tools, resources, and networks necessary for success, helping to build stronger communities through economic empowerment.