The Atlanta Black Chambers officially launched the 2026 awards season at its annual Kickoff event, honoring leaders, businesses, and partners whose work continues to shape opportunity, innovation and economic power across the region.
From visionary leadership to sustained community impact, this year’s honorees represent the very best of what it means to build with purpose, lead with integrity and uplift others along the way.
   
Legacy Award Honoree: Rich Wilkins
The Legacy Award, one of the highest honors presented by the Atlanta Black Chambers, recognizes an individual whose sustained leadership and service have created lasting impact across generations. This year’s honoree, Rich Wilkins, embodies legacy leadership through work that extends far beyond titles or transactions. His influence is seen in opportunities created, doors opened, and a stronger ecosystem built for Black-owned businesses. Guided by a belief that success is most meaningful when it is shared, Rich’s leadership has helped lay a foundation strong enough to carry the future forward.
Trailblazer Award Honoree: Ricardo Berris
The Trailblazer Award celebrates a visionary leader who pushes boundaries and turns bold ideas into action. Ricardo Berris, this year’s recipient, was recognized for strengthening the Atlanta Black Chambers from the inside out—building operational foundations that expanded the Chamber’s reach, deepened relationships, and elevated how members are supported. His leadership reflects the power of execution paired with vision, reshaping what’s possible for the organization and its members on both a local and global stage.
Corporate Partner of the Year: Chase
The Corporate Partner of the Year Award honors an organization whose commitment goes far beyond sponsorship. This year’s honoree, JPMorgan Chase & Co., was recognized for its hands-on engagement and sustained investment in economic empowerment. Through collaboration, expertise, and consistent presence, Chase has supported entrepreneurs, expanded access to opportunity, and strengthened the broader business ecosystem in meaningful and lasting ways.
Community Partner of the Year: Operation HOPE
The Community Partner of the Year Award recognizes an organization whose collaboration and engagement have significantly advanced the Chamber’s mission. Operation HOPE, a longtime ABC partner, was honored for more than a decade of active involvement supporting education, financial empowerment, entrepreneurship, and access to opportunity. Through programs, forums, and consistent engagement, Operation HOPE continues to help individuals rise, thrive, and build sustainable economic futures.
Member of the Year Finalists
The Member of the Year Award celebrates individuals who embody the spirit of the Atlanta Black Chambers through leadership, service, and consistent engagement. This year’s finalists exemplify what it means to show up, build relationships, and lift others as they climb:
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Kimberly Sellars-Bates, Founder & President, KSTB Enterprises
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RJ McCarley, Founder, TechChup
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Shirley Xavier
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Henry Caslin
Each finalist represents excellence in leadership and a deep commitment to strengthening the Chamber through service and collaboration.
Business of the Year Finalists
The Business of the Year Award honors companies that are thriving while intentionally contributing to the strength and visibility of the Black business community. This year’s finalists reflect leadership, innovation, resilience, and results:
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VenU2Go, founded by Thurmond and Trish Jones
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KQ Communications, led by Renee Malone
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All About the Minis, founded by Chef Kitura
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Reign Premium Sanitary Napkins, founded by Demond Crump
These businesses exemplify what is possible when purpose meets performance—setting a powerful standard for excellence across industries.
Looking Ahead to the ABC Gala
Winners for Member of the Year and Business of the Year will be announced at the 2026 ABC Gala, taking place in April. The Gala serves as a premier celebration of Black excellence, leadership, and entrepreneurship across the Atlanta region.
Tickets and event details are available at theabcgala.com.
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