As Black Business Month came to a close this August, our Office of Small Business Affairs (OSBA) and Office of Community Affairs recognized some of our Black entrepreneurs who have paved the way for so many people in Macon-Bibb County.   

On August 30, the OSBA held the first ever Black Business Month Pioneer Awards at the Tubman African American Museum. The awards luncheon honored people of the past and present who paved the way for so many businesses and community efforts in our community.  

“We’re proud to bring attention to those Black business owners who set up shops and blazed the trail for future generations,” said OSBA Director Charise Stephens. “Small businesses are the backbone of our city, and we want to celebrate those unsung heroes of our past so we can have a brighter future.” 

Some of the honorees including Herbert Dennard, Alex Habersham, Phillis Malone, and Walter Johnson attended the luncheon, but some of those who have passed away such as Paul Duval, Sr., and Lillie Mae Powell had their relatives receive the award for them.  

“It’s an honor to see so many distinguished business owners being recognized,” said honoree Herbert Dennard. “It’s not easy making it in a black business. I’ve had three.”

“It’s wonderful that this number of people came out to support those that we are honoring during this first-time event,” said Community Affairs Director Dr. Henry Ficklin, who helped organize the event and present the certificates. “It’s long overdue and I think it shows the direction that this Mayor and administration wants to go.” 

The luncheon was catered by small businesses Murphy’s Catering and Sweet Jars, LLC.  

“We asked new business owners to come here as well because I know it’s tough being a new business,” said OSBA Director Charise Stephens. “But when you see what kind of obstacles people in the past have had with their businesses, it’s inspirational.” 

Those honored this year include Alex Habersham, Herbert Dennard, Lillie Mae Powell, Lillie Ruth Gantt, Paul Duval, Sr., Phillis Malone, Ruth Hartley Mosely, Wini McQueen, Charles “C.H.” Hutchings, Sr., Charles Henry Douglass, Mama Louise Hudson, and Walter Johnson.

You can see more pictures from the event here.