MIAMI – The Miami-Dade Chamber of Commerce (MDCC) is honored to announce its nineteenth Annual Vacation Gala, themed “Celebrating Black Excellence,” set to happen on Saturday, December 14, 2024, at 6:30 p.m. on the Hilton Miami Downtown. This black-tie affair, held below the honorary chairmanship of Miami-Dade County Chairman Oliver G. Gilbert, III, will mark MDCC’s fiftieth anniversary, a milestone reflecting the group’s unwavering dedication to supporting and advancing Black companies all through South Florida.
Honoring a Legacy of Excellence
This yr’s gala is not going to solely have fun MDCC’s legacy however will even honor excellent people and organizations whose contributions have formed South Florida’s enterprise and cultural landscapes. The 2024 award recipients are acknowledged for his or her dedication to neighborhood development, financial empowerment, and innovation:
T. Smith Lifetime Achievement Award
Dr. Willie F. Logan – As President and CEO of Ten North Group, Dr. Logan has devoted his life to reasonably priced housing and neighborhood growth. A former member of the Florida Home of Representatives and Mayor of Opa-locka, he additionally serves as an adjunct college member on the College of Miami Faculty of Structure. Dr. Logan’s work has had a world attain, and his function as an envoy for the African Tradition Fund additional underscores his dedication to worldwide neighborhood constructing.
Distinguished Service Award
Carole Ann Taylor – A visionary entrepreneur and advocate, Taylor has made important contributions by her roles within the public sector and as a founding member of the Nationwide Coalition of 100 Black Ladies. Her management extends throughout numerous neighborhood boards, together with the Higher Miami Conference and Guests Bureau, Adrienne Arsht Heart for the Performing Arts, and WDNA Jazz Radio, championing Miami’s cultural and financial growth.
Citizen of the Yr Award
Yolanda Money Jackson – A revered Authorities Legislation lawyer, Jackson has established a repute for her experience in governmental relations and state funding. Recognized for her management and dedication to civic engagement, she maintains sturdy connections with policymakers and is a pillar of help for quite a few native organizations.
David Fincher Younger Innovator Award
Trina Harris – As CEO of Touching Miami with Love (TML) and president of the Overtown Enterprise Affiliation, Harris embodies a dedication to her Overtown roots. Her work in neighborhood growth has impressed change and progress in underserved areas, creating new alternatives for marginalized populations.
Oscar J. Braynon, II – Former State Senator for Florida District 35, Braynon has a distinguished document of service, together with his tenure as Minority Chief for the Florida Senate. His dedication to public service and advocacy for underrepresented communities has made an enduring influence on Miami-Dade County and past.
A Night time of Celebration and Objective
The nineteenth Annual Vacation Gala will supply a memorable night with reside leisure, beautiful delicacies, and an inspiring program that celebrates Black excellence and MDCC’s legacy of financial empowerment. Friends, sponsors, and honorees will come collectively to replicate on MDCC’s half-century dedication to strengthening Black companies and fostering neighborhood delight.
MDC President CEO – G Eric Knowles
“We’re thrilled to have fun our fiftieth anniversary with this yr’s Vacation Gala. It’s a time to honor not solely our group’s achievements but additionally the distinctive contributions of our award recipients. These people exemplify the facility of management and resilience in our neighborhood,” mentioned G. Eric Knowles, President and CEO of the Miami-Dade Chamber of Commerce.
Ticket Data and Sponsorship Alternatives
Tickets and sponsorship alternatives can be found at https://www.m-dccgala.org/. This can be a premier alternative to hitch in honoring and supporting Black excellence whereas contributing to MDCC’s ongoing mission of advocacy, networking, and enterprise growth.