BCOM 2025 Holiday Mixer Recap: Celebrating Growth, Leadership & Community in Memphis

The evening was filled with empowerment, joy, and meaningful conversations, leaving us energized and inspired as we prepare for the year ahead. It was a powerful moment to reflect on what we’ve accomplished together in 2025 and to celebrate the people and programs driving that success.

Honoring Program Milestones and Graduates

Several BCOM programs reached significant milestones this year, and the Holiday Mixer provided the perfect opportunity to recognize those achievements.

Dr. Eugenia Gray, Program Manager, acknowledged participants who successfully completed their journey through the Build to Scale Program in 2025, as well as graduates of the MemphisReStart Succession and Solutions Program. Their dedication and growth represent the strength of our entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Jasmine Bowden, Program Manager, recognized the final graduating class of the Business Boosters Hospitality Program, which also concluded in 2025. She additionally welcomed business owners interested in continuing engagement through the Restaurant Council, reinforcing BCOM’s commitment to the hospitality industry.

We also proudly celebrated the 2025 graduating classes of the BCOM ITEP Program, spanning four key industries: Wellness, Construction, Music, and Telecommunications. Alisha Williamson, Program Manager for ITEP, offered special acknowledgment to these graduates, highlighting their resilience, commitment, and readiness to lead within their industries.

Directory Launch and a Meaningful Farewell

One of the evening’s major highlights was the official unveiling of the Black Chamber of Memphis Business Directory — an important tool designed to elevate and connect Black-owned businesses throughout the region. Businesses that have not yet enrolled are encouraged to visit our website to learn more about the registration process and ensure their visibility within the BCOM network.

The night concluded with a heartfelt farewell tribute to Ernest Strickland, whose leadership and service as CEO left a lasting impact on the Chamber. The tribute was a meaningful reflection of his contributions and the gratitude felt throughout our community.

Looking Ahead to 2026

As we look toward the future, we are excited to expand our programming and impact. Plans are underway to introduce two additional ITEP Program sessions. Focused on personal care professionals in retail, along with a new financial management course. Members and partners are encouraged to complete the ITEP survey to learn more and share their interests.

We are also proud to announce our 2026 initiative, MemphisTEN, designed to further empower our community by supporting workforce readiness and strengthening employer partnerships across Memphis.

Stay Connected

To those who were unable to attend the Holiday Mixer, you were truly missed, and we look forward to seeing you at an upcoming event. We also warmly invite non-members to join the Black Chamber of Memphis in 2026 and become part of a growing, supportive business community.

Thank you once again for being an essential part of the Black Chamber of Memphis community. From all of us at BCOM, we wish you a joyful holiday season and a prosperous year ahead.