The Greater Los Angeles African American Chamber of Commerce (GLAAACC) 30th Awards Gala lived up to its tradition as the premier black-tie business event. At the sold-out event held on April 19, 2024, at the JW Marriott LA Live in downtown Los Angeles, awards were presented to deserving corporations, public servants and business owners recognized for contributing to the community and being champions of Black enterprise.
The award-winning wireless network operator T-Mobile was the 2024 dinner sponsor for GLAAACC’s 30th Economic Awards Dinner.
Communications giant Verizon was recognized as the Telecom Company of the Year for its commitment to the business community. Verizon’s Small Business Digital Ready program supports small businesses by offering grant funding and providing invaluable free resources to help them grow and succeed in a digital economy.
The Corporation of the Year Award was presented to AEG, the world’s leading sports and live entertainment company. AEG’s Supplier Diversity Manager, Christina Tulfo, accepted the award.
“Through persistent outreach, internally and externally, AEG continues to partner with these amazing businesses,” said Scott Bosarge, SVP of Business Services for AEG. “It starts with the AEG internal stakeholders and their dedication to ensure we’re positioned properly and transparently while intentionally engaging our community partners when opportunities arise.”
JP Morgan Chase Managing Director and National Head of Community & Business Development, Diedra Porché, received the GLAAACC Banking Executive of the Year Award. A 30-year company veteran, Porché is responsible for driving the business growth and strategic priorities for community banking, which includes a network of 300 community branches.
Mayor Karen Bass presented the Public Service Award to Governor Gavin Newsom, who has championed initiatives to empower and uplift Black-owned businesses across California. Although unable to accept in person, Newsom expressed his gratitude through a video message, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to creating economic opportunities and fostering an inclusive entrepreneurial landscape for the African American community.
The prestigious Banking & Financial Institution of the Year Award was accepted by Senior Community Relations Vice President Jack Olree on behalf of Wells Fargo Bank.
“Wells Fargo has worked diligently in collaboration with GLAAACC to help grow their Business Evolution Program helping to advise and empower small business owners,” Olree said. “Wells Fargo firmly believes that by fostering equity and creating opportunities for growth, we can drive positive change within the Brown and Black communities of Los Angeles. With a key element being in support of the entrepreneur.”
GLAAACC Chairman Gene Hale concluded the evening with remarks on the organization’s legacy of paying tribute to supporters of Black enterprise:
“For 30 years we’ve gathered to recognize those that have made a difference in the success of Black businesses in greater Los Angeles,” Hale said. “We are proud to recognize these exceptional businesses and individuals who have gone above and beyond in providing resources, assistance and a pathway to prosperity for thousands of small, Black-owned businesses.”
For more information on GLAAACC and a complete list of GLAAACC’s 30th Economic Awards honorees, visit glaaacc.org.
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