01/26/2024
I am truly elated in just receiving this nomination, there so many that have lead the way for people such as myself. That deserve recognition and to be honoured.
After reading the introduction I was humbled, helping and giving is something that I do privately, never expecting recognition. Thank you for such kind words, they touched my heart and I will continue to help in any way possible to those in need.
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Our last category features some incredible Black Owned Businesses! Don't forget voting closes on February 1st!
Here are the nominees for Black Owned Business of The Year!
The Health House, Shawna Regan (pictured top left) - Shawna is a true inspiration to all those who know her. With over 23 years of experience in the health and fitness industry, she has dedicated her life to educating both women and men about the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Her business, The Health House, has become a go-to destination for those seeking holistic and realistic approaches to health and fitness. In addition to her professional pursuits, Shawna is also deeply involved in her community. She volunteers her time and resources to various events such as Buxton Homecoming, She Leads CK, and Festival of Giving. Her commitment to serving others is truly remarkable and has left a lasting impact on those around her. Overall, Shawna is a remarkable person who has made a significant impact on both her professional field and her community. Her dedication to health and fitness, combined with her selflessness and positivity, make her a true asset to those around her. Shawna's a 7th generation descendant to the Buxton Settlement and her support for the community is a true testament to her dedication and passion for this community. Her family ties have helped foster a sense of unity within the community. It's important to have individuals like Shawna who are actively working towards preserving and promoting the rich history of their area while also strengthening the community.
Pour Decisions Wine Co. - Lisa Fraser (picture top right) - Lisa is not just a successful business owner, but a true community leader who has recently celebrated her third year in business. Her dedication to giving back to the community is truly inspiring. She goes above and beyond to help those in need, often putting their needs before her own. Lisa feeds the homeless every chance she can and offers blankets, warm clothing, and other essential items to those she sees outside her store in Downtown Chatham. She also supports many charities in the community, such a Chatham Kent Health Alliance, Community Living and many others when possible Her selfless acts of kindness have helped so many people in the community, and her generosity knows no bounds. Lisa's commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of those around her is truly remarkable, and she is a shining example of what it means to be a compassionate and caring member of our community.
Social Ladybug - Jeral Lumley (pictured bottom left)-
Jeral's unwavering dedication to senior health care is unparalleled. With 23 years of experience in caring for seniors, Jeral has made exceptional contributions to the field. Her passion for improving the lives of elderly individuals is evident in her day-to-day work. In addition to her extensive experience, Jeral has also owned and operated her own business for 9 years, which has been a resounding success. Jeral's commitment to community and heritage is also noteworthy. She has generational ties to the Underground Railroad, and her role on Buxton's Next Generation Committee reflects her dedication to preserving and promoting the area's rich history. Furthermore, Jeral's deep-rooted connection to the community is showcased through her tight family ties, which have helped foster a strong sense of unity.
Yardie Vibez, Jamaican Kitchen - Kevry & Connie Piggott- Wilson (pictured bottom right)- Kevry and Connie Wilson form an inseparable duo as the proud proprietors of Yardie Vibez Jamaican Kitchen & Lounge, operating within the Chatham Kent community for the past six years. Fueled by a deep passion for Jamaican cuisine and culture, Kevry, chef/maestro, draws inspiration from his Jamaican roots and his mother's exceptional cooking skills. With first hand experience and a profound love of traditional Jamaican flavours, Kevry's vision is to provide not just food but also fostering a sense of community and information-sharing. During the pandemic, Kevry worked with local farmers to provided three meals a day for seven days to over 350 offshore workers in quarantine, providing a supportive/familiar environment during a difficult transit. On the other side of this power couple is Connie (a first generation Jamaican Canadian), who spearheads the advertising and marketing efforts. A Chatham-Kent native, Connie brings over 15 years of experience working with newcomers to Canada as a Pre-Employment Advisor and Diversity Facilitator at Adult Language and Learning. Her commitment to diversity and inclusivity is evident in her involvement in initiatives like the F.I.R.S.T Strategy and co-organizing the Chatham-Kent Black Lives Matter March. Connie has also served as aGoodwill Ambassador for Chatham-Kent and worked as an archivist at theBuxton Museum. Grateful and humbled by their nomination, Kevry and Connie express
their pride in being among accomplished individuals and businesses, showcasing their dedication to both black excellence and community
enrichment.
