Finalists announced for inaugural BLK RVA Community Awards

The Richmond Region Tourism Foundation has announced the finalists of its first-ever BLK RVA Community Awards, designed to honor businesses and individuals who assist in supporting Black tourism in the Richmond region.

The awards are being sponsored by Wells Fargo, and the public can vote through Aug. 4 to determine the winners.

Nominees for the Rising Community Impact Award sponsored by Wells Fargo are:

• Arthur Ashe Boulevard Initiative;

• Ashley Williams – BareSOUL;

• Brandi Brown – Ms. Bee’s Juice Bar;

• Liberated Arts Foundation;

• Luise ‘Cheezi’ Farmer – Black Pride RVA:

• Mike King Biz;

• RVA Explore Tours;

• RVA Hot Wheelz:

• RVA’s Black Farmers Market.

The award recognizes emerging Black businesses, individuals, or initiatives that have recently established themselves, bringing “fresh and authentic experiences to the region,” according to RRTF officials.

Nominees for the Rooted Community Impact Award presented by Altria Client Services are:

• Duron Chavis – Sankofa Orchard;

• Janine Bell – Elegba Folklore Society;

• Amiri and Cindy Richardson-Keys – The ARTS Community Center;

• James Holland – Chesterfield County Supervisor;

• Ron Carey – Tilt Creative + Production;

• Randy Cooper – Richmond Heritage Federal Credit Union;

• Elvatrice Parker Belsches – Historian, Researcher, Curator, Lecturer, Filmmaker and Author;

• Kelli Lemon – Like the Fruit.

The award honors Black businesses, individuals, or initiatives that have been integral to the community for more than a decade, contributing significantly to the city’s cultural and social fabric.

The awards will be presented at an event Aug. 23 at The Hippodrome Theater, which will include entertainment and presentations. Tickets are currently on sale.

For details, click here.