A Night of Celebration: Highlights from the Miami-Dade Chamber’s 19th Annual Holiday Gala
By The Culture
The Miami-Dade Chamber of Commerce hosted its 19th Annual Holiday Gala on Saturday, December 14, 2024 at the Hilton Miami Downtown, honored the Chamber’s rich legacy of advocating for Black businesses and fostering economic growth throughout South Florida.
A Night to Remember
The gala commenced with a lively cocktail hour featuring a step-and-repeat for guests to capture the evening’s memories and network with fellow business leaders, dignitaries, and community advocates. As the clock struck 7:40 PM, guests were ushered into the grand ballroom by Mistress of Ceremony, Constance Jones, NBC 6 South Florida’s esteemed news anchor.
The evening’s theme of celebrating Black excellence was brought to life with powerful speeches, tributes, and a series of prestigious awards presented to local leaders and visionaries. Constance Jones set the tone with her opening remarks, reflecting on the Chamber’s 50-year journey of empowerment, advocacy, and impact.
Honoring Leaders of Excellence
Throughout the night, distinguished individuals who have made remarkable contributions to the community were recognized. The following awards were presented:
- H.T. Smith Lifetime Achievement Award: Dr. Willie F. Logan, honored for his lifetime dedication to affordable housing and community development.
- Distinguished Service Award: Carole Ann Taylor, celebrated for her leadership and lasting impact on the community.
- Citizen of the Year Award: Yolanda Cash Jackson, recognized for her exceptional public policy work and advocacy.
- David Fincher Young Innovator Award: Trina Harris, applauded for her innovative solutions and leadership among the next generation of changemakers.
- Jason Jenkins Unsung Hero Award: Oscar J. Braynon, II, acknowledged for his quiet, behind-the-scenes efforts that have driven meaningful progress.
Special Moments
In addition to honoring these outstanding individuals, the gala featured remarks from Miami-Dade County Vice-Chairman Kionne L. McGhee, who presented a special proclamation recognizing the Chamber’s 50th anniversary. G. Eric Knowles, President of the Miami-Dade Chamber of Commerce, delivered an inspiring speech reflecting on the Chamber’s rich history and future, while also unveiling the Chamber’s exciting new partnership with Related Group and its upcoming move to new offices.
Guests raised their glasses in a heartfelt toast to 50 years of perseverance, progress, and prosperity, led by Knowles and Albert Milo, President of Related Group.
A Tribute to Sponsors
The evening would not have been possible without the support of generous sponsors, including Teri Williams, President and COO of OneUnited Bank, who played a prominent role as the Reception Sponsor. Williams also shared insights into OneUnited’s mission to empower communities of color, which resonated deeply with the audience.
Looking Forward
As the event drew to a close, incoming Chairman Baldwin English took the stage to express his excitement for the future of the Chamber and its continued legacy of excellence. His words encapsulated the evening’s sentiment—a commitment to progress, growth, and opportunity for the next 50 years.
The 19th Annual Holiday Gala was a resounding success, celebrating half a century of Black excellence and reinforcing the Miami-Dade Chamber of Commerce’s unwavering dedication to the South Florida business community. With a bright future ahead, the Chamber looks forward to continuing its legacy of leadership, innovation, and empowerment.
