28th Annual Pinnacle Awards Gala
Honoring Trailblazers in Business & Advocacy
SATURDAY 11.01.25 | 6-10 PM
Celebrating you
Where Excellence Meets Legacy
Now is the time to shine a light on your achievements. View the finalists for the 2025 Pinnacle Awards Gala, where we honor the innovators, changemakers, and legacy builders shaping our region. Don’t miss the opportunity to recognize excellence and be part of a tradition that celebrates leadership, resilience, and success.
Honorary Chairs
Recognized for their leadership, vision, and unwavering support, our Honorary Chairs serve as champions of the Pinnacle Awards and the Greater Houston Black Chamber’s mission.
Jermeshia Goudeau
Co-Founder of Braden Real Estate Group
Nicole Handy
Co-founder of Braden Real Estate Group
Thomas Jones, Jr.
Founding partner of McConnell Jones, LLP (MJ)
Wallace Davis
President of DHI Telecom Group/Sapphire International Mobile Hotspots
Pinnacle Award Finalist
The Pinnacle Award, celebrates Black-owned businesses in Greater Houston that demonstrate excellence, innovation, and community impact. Honorees are leaders in economic success, service, and generational wealth-building.
Eligible businesses must be at least 51% Black-owned, for-profit, based in Greater Houston, and operating for at least two years.
Chenadra Washington
Black Orchids PR
NINA THOMAS
Boatner Logistics
desmond bertrand-pitts
Buffalo Soldiers National Museum
Jenae johnson
CTM Unlimited
Danny lovelady
Ark of Safety Security Solutions
Lori o. Lord
Heist Agency, LLC
Ashley Small
Medley Inc.
Dr.qiana o’leary
Minty Educational Services
Jeremy lewis
The Slippery Soap, LLC
Troy Smith
Troy B. Smith Professional Services
Mack H. Hannah, Jr.
Upstart Award Finalist
Honors a promising Black-owned business (under 2 years old) showing innovation, vision, and strong potential for long-term success.
Adam Rivon
Window Hero West Houston
William Johnson
W Johnson Consulting LLC
Jennifer Ukwu
Botany Wellness, PLLC
Monique Black
That Time of the Month Club
Adrian Collins
Collinnova
Charmeyce Buck
Shalom Analytics & Consulting
Mickey Leland
Public Leadership Award
Celebrates a nonprofit advancing equity and access for marginalized communities through impactful service or policy.
Edward pollard, esq
Suits for Success Houston
Ingrid Robinson
Houston Minority Supplier Development Council
Derek Holmes
Harris Health
Khalil vinson
Tech Fest Live
John nicklos
Juneteenth Houston
Larry V. Green
Advocate of the Year Award Honoree
Honors an individual or organization that has consistently championed GHBC and Black businesses through advocacy, partnerships, or policy impact.
Martha castex-tatum
Mayor Pro Tem | City of Houston
City Councilmember | District K
Endurance Award Finalist
Recognizes a long-standing Black-owned Houston business that exemplifies resilience, consistency, and community impact despite challenges.
Joni odum
Firstline Brands
debny greenlee
eric lyons
vernita harris
IMPACT Strategies Consultants
Rising Star Award
Awards a standout Black entrepreneur (ages 18–25) making waves in business or community leadership with bold vision and momentum.
Launch Grant
Award winner will receive a strategic grant to invest directly in their business journey. This funding provides startup funding to a new business ready to take the next step.
Young Entrepreneur Award
Recognizes an African American business owner under 18 demonstrating creativity, leadership, and early entrepreneurial success.
Growth Grant
Award winner will receive a strategic grant to invest directly in their business journey. This funding provides real financial support to help take that next big step that moves the mission forward.
Awards Faqs
Do all winners give acceptance speeches?
To keep the evening flowing smoothly, only our Community Award Honorees will share brief remarks:
- Larry V. Green Advocate of the Year Award Honoree
- Shelia Jackson Lee Legend Award Honoree
- Sylvester Turner Excellence Award Honoree
All other Pinnacle Award winners will still enjoy their moment in the spotlight with a walk-up to receive their award on stage and a photo opportunity — no speeches required.
This approach helps keep the program engaging and enjoyable for everyone, allowing more time to celebrate the remarkable accomplishments of our honorees.
How many trophies do winners receive on the night?
Each award-winning business or individual will receive one complimentary trophy during the event.
If you’d like additional trophies for your team, partners, or clients, you can order them after the ceremony by contacting the GHBC office at info@ghbcc.com.
What is the dress code for the Gala?
The Pinnacle Awards Gala is a black-tie affair.
We invite you to dress your best and enjoy a memorable evening with elegance and style.
Black Tie Guidelines:
- Men: Tuxedo (black or midnight blue), white dress shirt, black bow tie, cummerbund or vest, and patent leather shoes.
- Women: Floor-length evening gown in a formal fabric such as silk or chiffon.
Enjoy complimentary professional portraits to commemorate the evening.
Is there a deadline to purchase Gala tickets?
There’s no official deadline, but we highly recommend purchasing your individual ticket as soon as possible.
Tables are already sold out, and individual tickets are going fast!
When and where is the Gala taking place?
This year’s Gala will be held at the Bayou City Event Center on Saturday, November 1, 2025.
- Doors Open: 6:00 PM – Featuring a special Legacy Exhibit celebrating 90 years of excellence
- Seating Begins: 6:45 PM
- Program Begins: 7:00 PM
- Dinner Service: 7:30 PM
How many people sit at a table?
Each table seats 10 guests.
All finalists receive 2 complimentary tickets. There are designated nominee tables unless you purchased a table.
Please note that seating is open unless you have purchased a full table.
What’s on the menu? Are dietary needs accommodated?
We’ll be serving a delicious, fall-inspired three-course meal for all guests.
A cash bar will also be available throughout the evening.
Please be sure to note any dietary restrictions or allergies during registration—we’ll gladly accommodate with gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options.
Is parking available?
Yes, ample self-parking is available onsite.
Please note that valet service will not be provided.
Houston’s Premier Celebration of Black Business Excellence
Secure Your Seat
Join the Greater Houston Black Chamber for the 28th Annual Pinnacle Awards Gala, the crown jewel of GHBC’s 90th Anniversary Pinnacle Celebration. Whether you’re attending solo or with your team, there’s a ticket package designed to elevate your experience and deepen your connection to Houston’s thriving Black business community.
General Admission
$250
admission for one (1)
General Admission Table
$2,500
Group Admission
Pinnacle Legacy Builders
$1,935
Investment Contribution
invest in houston's future
Sponsor Houston’s Premier Celebration of Black Business
Partner With Us
Join the Greater Houston Black Chamber as a sponsor of the 2025 Pinnacle Celebration, a multi-day tribute to 90 years of impact, advocacy, and Black business success in Houston. As a sponsor, you’ll align your brand with a legacy of impact and connect with a powerful network of entrepreneurs, professionals, and community leaders. Your support helps drive economic mobility, amplify Black voices, and shape the future of business in Greater Houston.
Thanks to Our Sponsors
