Event Highlights Local Changemakers Advancing Economic Empowerment, Mentorship, and Community Development
LONG ISLAND, N.Y. — On March 14th, 2026 Community leaders, entrepreneurs, and advocates from across Long Island gathered to celebrate the impact of local leadership during the Homegrown Heroes event hosted in partnership with the African American Small Business Foundation, Inc., 100 Black Men of Eastern New York, Inc. and the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc.
The event recognized individuals whose dedication to service, mentorship, economic empowerment, and community development continues to strengthen communities throughout Long Island and New York who graduated from public and private high schools on Long Island. Some of the honorees returned to Long Island from outside of New York.
“Homegrown Heroes represents the spirit of leadership and service that exists throughout our communities,” said Phil Andrews, President of the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce. “By recognizing those who dedicate their time and talent to uplifting others, we reaffirm our commitment to building stronger, more sustainable ecosystems for African American businesses and families.”
Curator Perspective
“Homegrown Heroes was created to recognize the extraordinary individuals within our communities who lead, serve, and inspire others every day. By highlighting their contributions, we celebrate their impact while inspiring future generations to continue building stronger communities.” Shirley Darkeh, Curator, Homegrown Heroes
The event also highlighted the collaborative missions of the partnering organizations working to expand opportunity and strengthen communities.
The Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc. works to empower the African American community socially, culturally, and economically to sustain viable ecosystems through access to capital, business education, technical assistance, advocacy, and community engagement.
The African American Small Business Foundation, Inc., the Chamber’s charitable arm, supports initiatives that expand entrepreneurship, economic mobility, and community development.
Meanwhile, 100 Black Men of Eastern New York, Inc. continues to impact communities through its nationally recognized “Four For The Future”® programmatic model focused on mentoring, education, health and wellness, and economic empowerment.
Speakers throughout the evening emphasized the importance of collective leadership, community investment, and mentorship to ensure that future generations have access to opportunity and resources.
“Our model is simple,” Andrews added. “What They See They’ll Be ®. When young people see leadership, service, and success in their own communities, it inspires the next generation to follow that path.”
Organizers expressed appreciation to sponsors, partners, donors, and attendees whose support made the event possible and reaffirmed their commitment to continuing programs that promote economic empowerment and community advancement across Long Island.
Media Contact
Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc.
Email: info@liaacc.org
Website: www.liaacc.org
