Hundreds attend the IBBC 2023 Black Excellence, People’s Choice Awards in Killeen

Lights, cameras and action was the scene Friday night at the Killeen Civic and Conference Center for the Black Excellence Awards red carpet ceremony.

The ceremony concluded the Innovation Black Chamber of Commerce’s Texas Black Business week, which was comprised of several business workshops, speakers and the first pitch competition, much like “Shark Tank” TV show, where the winner was awarded $3,000 by the chamber for their new startup business idea.

The conference center’s main ballroom was adorned with several artifacts from African culture, including the chairs, tables and stage. The awards ceremony’s African attire theme inspired those who attended to dress in the traditional outfits.

Many women wore colorful and fitted dresses called kanga and the gomesi. and many men dressed in vibrant-color outfits called Kanzu, Djibouti, Macawiis and Koofiyad,

Those who bought tickets and attended the ceremony, which officially began at 7:30 p.m. were served a full-course meal, buffet style, before the actual events of the night began. A full service cash bar and several background sets for photo opportunities were also available.

The Innovation Black Chamber of Commerce has been in existence for three years, of Feb. 16. Earlier in the week for Black History Month at Killeen City Hall, Chamber President Ronnie Russell accepted a proclamation from Mayor Debbie Nash-King recognizing the chamber’s dedication and commitment and service to the community.

“What we do to celebrate Black History Month is through education and celebration” Russell said, in describing the Black Excellence Awards.

“Innovation has no limitation; other organizations are confined by their name. When you have a name in your constitution and bylaws that restricts you from expanding, then you can’t expand the brand” Russell said, when asked about the name “Innovation”.