Local Black Chamber of Commerce Hosts Job Fair, Business Expo and Black-Tie Awards Dinner Gala
The Southern California Black Chamber of Commerce (SCBCC) held its inaugural
Job Fair and Business Expo on June 11th in downtown Long Beach at the Renaissance Hotel. The Long Beach SCBCC Chapter, under the leadership of Sharifah Hardie, President, and the SCBCC President, Richard Wallace, hosted the well-attended and well-received event.
With unemployment being at an all-time high in California and across the nation, particularly in black communities, the SCBCC initiated the event to help address the employment gap which exists in underserved populations. Goals were to provide employment assistance, as well as to help accelerate and foster strategic Black business growth and development in communities of color. The job fair and expo showcased sponsors, exhibitors and local businesses. It also provided a platform for professional business development, skill assessment and leadership training. Additionally, the event created an opportunity for businesses to share their products and services, interact with potential candidates and network with other local business owners. Build-A-Bear donated 500 bears that were given away as attendees registered. It was a compassionate gesture as everyone can likely appreciate a bear hug right about now, given the global health, social upheaval and economic challenges we have all faced over the past few years.
The much-anticipated job fair and expo was followed by a stellar Black-Tie Awards Dinner Gala, which recognized influential community and political leaders. Esteemed speakers included Kevin Hatcher, City of Long Beach Black Health Equity Coordinator; Steven Neal, President of the Port of Long Beach; Al Austin II, District 8 City Councilman; Mike Gipson, State Assemblyman; and a representative from the major Sponsor, the Long Beach Transit. SCBCC President Hardie was recognized by the California State Assembly for her contributions to promoting and supporting black entrepreneurs and business development in Long Beach. The SCBCC also recognized Ms. Hardie’s leadership and commitment to advancing business acumen and education.
The Long Beach SCBCC plans to host a job fair and business expo or community conference annually. The kickoff event highlighted the need for a Black business forum to nurture business growth and development in Long Beach. It was a productive and wonderful day that concluded on a high note due to the successful SCBCC event. Attendees enjoyed an evening of fine dining, thought-provoking speeches and the awards ceremony, which wrapped up with lively music.
To learn more about the Long Beach Chapter of the Southern California Black Chamber of Commerce, you are invited to attend the SCBCC Monthly Mixer held every third Wednesday at 6:30 pm at 1144 Olive Ave, Long Beach, CA 90813.
Please visit https://www.BlackChamberofCommerce.org to register or call 888.466.7408, ext. 134. for more information.
About the Southern California Black Chamber of Commerce
Southern California Black Chamber of Commerce (SCBCC) serves and supports Black businesses in all counties across Southern California. The SBCC has established constructive partnerships within the state and local government in its advocacy for the interests of its members. The SCBCC focuses its efforts on four major areas namely Economic Development, Community Development, Public Policy and Membership Services
Author: Senior Editor D.T. Jordan
