Celebrating Entrepreneurs Throughout Black History Month
Why This Series Matters
ColumbusBlack.com presents The Small Business Showcase Series, proudly sponsored by Experience Columbus — a collaborative initiative designed to spotlight local entrepreneurs, elevate small businesses, and strengthen equitable economic growth across the city.
Hosted by Kevin Lloyd, the series features interviews with members of the Experience Columbus Small Business Program (SBP) — highlighting their journeys, showcasing their services, and helping drive visibility and revenue through expanded promotional opportunities.
The core goals of the Small Business Showcase Series include:
- Showcasing small businesses and their unique offerings
- Driving public awareness of local services and brands
- Increasing revenue opportunities through strategic promotion
- Supporting equitable economic development and strengthening Columbus’s small business ecosystem
🤝 A Councilmember Nick Bankston Initiative
A key element of this series is recognizing the leadership of Columbus City Councilmember Nick Bankston, who initiated the Small Business Program (SBP). Through this initiative, participating business owners receive free, year-long access to exposure opportunities through Experience Columbus.
The SBP reflects the City of Columbus’s broader commitment to inclusive business growth, ensuring entrepreneurs have access to resources, visibility, and pathways to success.
Be sure to check out the intro video here
🎓 Episode 1 — Student-Led Services Segment (Release Date: Tues, Feb. 10th, 2026)
This segment spotlights education-focused leaders and organizations creating pathways for youth empowerment, leadership development, and experiential learning opportunities that shape future entrepreneurs and change-makers.
🎙️ Featured Guests
Anthony King
CEO & Founder | The Student Stakeholder
An educational leader and entrepreneur focused on elevating student voice and success through innovative learning experiences and leadership development initiatives.
📸 IG: @thestudentstakeholder
🌐 TheStudentStakeholder.com
Frederick Lee Jr.
Director of Partnerships & Development | Lead The Way Learning Academy
A purpose-driven leader specializing in partnerships, workforce development, and community engagement, creating pathways that connect students and families to meaningful opportunities.
📸 IG: @LTW_Ohio
📘 FB: LTWOhio
🌐 LTWOhio.org
Stephanie Matthews
Executive Director | A Tribe for Jazz
An award-winning photographer and arts leader dedicated to expanding access to creative education and elevating culturally rich artistic experiences through community-centered programming.
📸 IG: @ATribeForJazz
🌐 ATribeForJazz.org
🎶 Episode 2 — Entertainment Services Segment (Release Date: Tues, Feb. 17th, 2026)
This segment highlights entrepreneurs in the entertainment industry who are using creativity, professionalism, and innovation to build successful businesses while delivering unforgettable event experiences.
🎙️ Featured Guests
Christopher “DJ iShine” Summers
Founder | iShine Music Production
A Columbus-based private-event DJ delivering high-energy, polished entertainment through curated music and a client-first approach that transforms events into memorable experiences.
📸 IG: @ishinemusicpro | @djishinelive
🌐 ishinemusicpro.com
Anthony Saxson
Founder & Owner | Anthony Saxson Entertainment LLC
A musician and entrepreneur leveraging deep musical roots and industry relationships to connect top-tier talent with clients seeking professional entertainment solutions.
📸 IG: @anthonysaxsonmusic
🌐 anthonysaxsonmusic.com
💪 Episode 3 — Health & Wellness Segment (Release Date: Tues, Feb. 24th, 2026)
This segment explores leadership, wellness, and personal development through professionals helping individuals and organizations achieve growth through movement, mindset, and strategic leadership practices.
🎙️ Featured Guests
Quincy Williams
Founder & Head Coach | Quality Wellness Performance & Coaching
A wellness entrepreneur helping individuals unlock freedom through movement and functional training, creating transformative experiences that support strength and personal evolution.
📸 IG: @Quality_Wellness_Columbus
🌐 QWColumbus.com
💼 LinkedIn: Quality Wellness Performance & Coaching
Shirley M. Ellis, PMP®
CEO | Intentional Impact LLC
A leadership coach empowering organizations to enhance confidence, alignment, and performance through strategic leadership development.
📸 IG: @IAmShirleyEllis
🌐 IAmShirleyEllis.com
💼 LinkedIn: ShirleyEllis
🍽️ Episode 4 — Culinary Entrepreneurs Segment (Release Date: Thursday, Feb. 26th, 2026)
This segment highlights culinary entrepreneurs who are using food, culture, and creativity to build meaningful businesses while delivering authentic Caribbean-inspired culinary experiences to the community.
🎙️ Featured Guests
Felisha Bowe
Owner & Chef | Island Girl Bahamian Cuisine
An entrepreneur and cultural ambassador bringing authentic Bahamian cuisine to Central Ohio through private dining, catering, pop-ups, and signature cultural food events that celebrate the vibrant flavors of the islands.
📸 IG: @island_girl_bahamian_cuisine
🌐 IslandGirlBahamianCuisine.com
Serene Stapleton-Frett
Founder | Serene’s Sweet Spot
A bakery entrepreneur blending comfort desserts with Caribbean-rooted flavors, creating unique sweet experiences inspired by culture, creativity, and community connection.
📸 IG: @serenessweetspot
🌐 SereneSweetSpot.com
🚀 Watch, Subscribe & Support Local
Join Kevin Lloyd, ColumbusBlack.com, and Experience Columbus in celebrating these incredible entrepreneurs.
🎥 Watch each episode as they are released:
▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ColumbusBlack
📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CBUSBLACK
Be sure to check out the intro video here
👍 Subscribe, follow, and share today to help amplify local businesses, expand opportunities, and support the growth of Columbus’s vibrant small business community.
