On July 13, 2025, the Art Gallery of Hamilton came alive with community, culture, and celebration. The BLK Owned Garden Party Brunch Awards & Fundraiser brought together nearly 200 guests, we had entrepreneurs, advocates, civic leaders, and change-makers all gathered to honour the brilliance of Black business owners across Southwestern Ontario.
With 120 community nominations and 7 awards presented, this year’s Garden Party was a powerful reminder of the depth of talent and resilience that exists right here in our community. Here’s a closer look at the incredible individuals who were recognized.
Trailblazing Woman Entrepreneur Award
Winner: Dr. Bolanle Solomon-Adewusi — The Scholarship Whizz
Dr. Bolanle Solomon-Adewusi has made it her mission to help students navigate the often overwhelming world of scholarships and educational funding. Through The Scholarship Whizz, she has become an invaluable resource for young people pursuing their academic dreams, demonstrating the kind of leadership and innovation this award was created to honour.
Pictured: (Left) Dr. Bolanhle’s Sister, (Right) Yanique Brandford, Founder and Executive Director or Help A Girl Out (HAGO), Toronto Pearson Representative
Growth Champion Entrepreneur Award
Winner: Anita Grant — Hello Hair
Anita Grant and Hello Hair represent what happens when passion meets purpose. Over the past year, Anita has achieved remarkable business growth, building a brand that celebrates natural hair and self-expression. Her success is a testament to what’s possible when Black entrepreneurs are supported and celebrated.
Pictured: (Left): Anita Grant, (Right) Erin Hunking, Senior Account Manager & Client Diversity Ambassador at BDC
Rising Star Young Entrepreneur Award
Winner: Keyshia Gordon — Island Queens Restaurant & Catering
At under 30, Keyshia Gordon is already making her mark on Hamilton’s food scene. Island Queens Restaurant & Catering brings the vibrant flavours of Caribbean cuisine to the community, and Keyshia’s drive and vision have quickly made her one of the most exciting young entrepreneurs to watch in the region.
Pictured: (Left) Keyshia Gordon, (Right) Sharon Gordon, Retired: Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Consultant at Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board (HWDSB)
Legacy Entrepreneur Award
Winner: Vinnette Seaton — Lyn’s Linstead Market
Vinnette Seaton’s story is one of endurance, dedication, and deep community roots. Lyn’s Linstead Market has long been a beloved staple, and Vinnette’s enduring contributions to both her industry and her community embody everything the Legacy Award stands for.
Pictured: (Left) Vinnette Seaton, (Right) Tylor Huizinga, Director of Retail Operations, Bell
Entrepreneur Francophone Exceptionnel Award
Winner: Liliane Masengo Kabamba — Rafiki Hamilton Centre
Liliane Masengo Kabamba’s work through Rafiki Hamilton Centre speaks to the power of serving your community with purpose. As an exceptional French-speaking business owner, Liliane has made a meaningful impact within Hamilton’s Francophone community, building bridges and creating space for those who need it most.
Pictured: (Left) Pascale Marchand, Constituency Assistant, Office of Councillor Tammy Hwang , (Right) Liliane Masengo Kabamba
Creative Visionary Artistic Entrepreneur Award
Winner: Dejehan Hamilton — Luckystickz Entertainment Inc.
Dejehan Hamilton is redefining what creative entrepreneurship looks like in Southwestern Ontario. Through Luckystickz Entertainment Inc., he has brought innovation and excellence to the arts and entertainment space, inspiring a new generation of creative business owners.
Pictured: (Left) Ryan McHugh, Manager of Tourism & Events, City of Hamilton, (Right) Dejehan Hamilton
BLK Owned Community Award
Winner: Terri Bedminster — Refuge Newcomer Health
Perhaps no recognition felt more fitting than this one. Terri Bedminster and the team at Refuge Newcomer Health have become a cornerstone of care and support for newcomers in Hamilton. Her work embodies the spirit of community that BLK Owned was built on — showing up, serving others, and making a lasting difference.
Pictured: (Left) Rose Keefer, (Centre) Terri Bedminster, (Right) Ashleigh Montague
A Community That Shows Up for Its Own
The 2025 Garden Party was more than an awards ceremony. It was proof that when a community rallies around its entrepreneurs, extraordinary things happen. Nine Black-owned businesses were financially impacted through the event, and the energy in that room at the Art Gallery of Hamilton was undeniable.
To every nominee, every winner, every sponsor, and every guest who filled that room — thank you for being part of this movement. BLK Owned exists because of you.
Stay connected and discover more Black-owned businesses across Southwestern Ontario at blkowned.ca
