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Elevating Excellence: National Black MBA LA Honors Leaders and Fuels the Future at Annual Gala

Rhonesia Perry • October 12, 2024

(Left to right) Damien Halliburton,  and Isaac Lowery, President and Vice-President, respectively, of the Gentleman’s Society | Photo credit: Rhonesia Perry


The National Black MBA Association - Los Angeles Chapter recently held its prestigious annual Awards Gala, a highly anticipated event that honors influential business leaders, investors, and equity change-makers. This year’s gala, which raised more than $30,000 in scholarships for students at different stages of their academic journeys, highlighted the chapter’s commitment to fostering future business professionals.


One of the most notable moments of the evening was the recognition of Isaac Lowery, Vice President of the Gentleman’s Society, as Chapter Member of the Year. This award is a rare honor, given only to individuals who demonstrate a servant’s heart and a deep commitment to the organization’s mission. Lowery’s dedication to serving in various roles within the chapter was highlighted as a prime example of selfless leadership.


One of the awardees and notable speaker, venture capitalist Arlan Hamilton, left a lasting impression on the crowd of MBA professionals with her empowering message. “Be yourself so other people can find you,” Hamilton told the audience, sharing her personal journey and her inspiring goal of cultivating and funding 100 millionaires. Hamilton’s words resonated deeply, especially with those who are pursuing entrepreneurial ventures. Her mission to invest in diverse entrepreneurs emphasized the importance of organizations that actively support personal and professional growth.


Damien Halliburton, President of the Gentleman’s Society, also shared his thoughts, recognizing the gala as a powerful platform for building lasting partnerships. The event stood as a reminder that collaborations between leaders and rising stars are essential for sustaining the progress and success of the Black business community.


This year’s gala was not just a celebration of individual achievements but a reflection of the collective effort to elevate Black professionals in business, while making significant contributions to the next generation of leaders. The event was an inspiring testament to the impact that intentional community building and advocacy can have in shaping a brighter future.


For more information on how to join the National Black MBA - Los Angeles Chapter go: 

https://nbmbaa.org/joinnbmbaa/


To learn more about Gentleman's society contact:

Join@GoTGS.org

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This Couple Launched A Delivery Service To Bring Black Farmers and Food Suppliers To Your Doorstep

By UBJ Staff • March 26, 2025
(ATLANTA) Move over Instacart! In the months following the country’s shutdown due to the pandemic, Rhandi and Jonathan Altidor noticed something was missing in the food delivery market — Black grocers. Their solution? The couple decided to bridge the gap with The Better Buggy , a grocery delivery service for Black-owned farms and food suppliers in their Atlanta community. “I told my husband that it was really frustrating that weren’t able to support Black-owned stores because a lot of the major outlets that offer [grocery delivery] don’t have smaller Black-owned businesses available,” Rhandi told Because of Them We Can. “We are always team ‘buy Black’ whenever we can, whereever we can — why don’t we fill this void that’s out there and help empower these local Black-owned stores and create this service because it wasn’t there.” The two educators, Rhandi a middle school teacher and Jonathan a school counselor in Fulton County Schools, used their downtime to create the business while juggling married life and parenthood. With help from their family and wider community they’ve been able to make inroads in a predominately white market. The Better Buggy offers same-day delivery for fresh produce and everyday essentials, including vegan, organic, and gluten-free options.

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By LaTania • March 25, 2025
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By LaTania Smith • March 25, 2025
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