JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Black entrepreneurs across Florida gathered in Jacksonville on Sunday for the Best Boss Awards Gala, which event organizers say is about encouraging business owners to continue their hard work.
This event, now in its eighth year, also serves as a chance for aspiring business owners to hear other success stories and make lasting connections.
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This year’s gala took place in Southbank and honored attorneys, bakers, hair salons, and nonprofits.
This year marks the first time the gala has expanded to include participants from all over Florida. Organizers anticipate around 400 attendees.
Adrienne Martin, founder of The Best Boss Awards, shared her thoughts on the event’s impact, saying, “Sometimes, people that come could be on the brink of giving up, but they come and they’re inspired by what they see, they’re inspired by the testimonies that are given by other business owners and it encourages them to move forward.”
Martin also highlighted the importance of staying motivated, sharing her favorite motto: “Start unknown, finish unforgettable.”