Laura’s Recap
Hot takes on the moments that shaped 2023
In the words of the legendary Whitney Houston, “I believe the children are our future, teach them well and let them lead the way.”
It is only right that we celebrate the next generation of young Black professionals from Houston and beyond. The Defender proudly presents our Top 10 Under 40 rising stars of 2023.
This year’s lineup spotlights young Black trailblazers’ remarkable journeys and outstanding accomplishments, shaping the narrative across diverse industries. These visionaries redefine success in creative arts & entertainment, technology, business, finance, media, fashion & beauty, and more.
They are breaking barriers in corporate America and the entrepreneurship space, and they’re not pumping their foot on the breaks anytime soon.
Get ready to be inspired, empowered, and uplifted by the stories of these 2023 rising stars.
Protecting your oral health with Dr. Mikenah Joy Vega
Meet Dr. Mikenah Joy Vega, a Boston native and cosmetic dentist who has made Houston her home since 2018. Beyond her role in dentistry, she doubles as a health and wellness coach, spreading joy and positivity. Driven by the belief that a great smile can transform lives, she assists patients in achieving their oral health goals, regardless of their current dental state. Dr. Vega’s passion extends beyond the dental chair, making her an advocate for overall well-being.
Battle of the Canvas competition returns
Meet Chukwunonso Ofili, the creative force behind Ofiliated and CEO who created the Battle of the Canvas live painting competition. An artist and entertainer from Nigeria, Ofili aims to foster a Black-owned artist community in Houston. Through this annual event, he provides a platform for local artists to showcase their talent, emphasizing the importance of community and representation in the art world.
Breaking generational curses: Black Millennials seeking financial freedom
Nashira Lynton, Ainjel McDonald, Richard Bumbury, and Nde Nkimbeng share their financial journeys as Black Millennials in a series exploring the racial and generational gaps in acquiring wealth. Their stories shed light on the challenges they’ve faced and the strategies they employ to build wealth, offering valuable insights for others on a similar path.
Meet Houston’s new Poet Laureate, Aris Kian Brown
Aris Kian Brown, Houston’s sixth poet laureate and the youngest ever, is making waves at just 25. An alumna of the University of Houston, she holds the poetic baton, using her platform to create a positive impact. Through community outreach projects, Brown is redefining the role of a poet laureate, bringing fresh perspectives to creative writing.
Flynanced teaches Black women how to build wealth
Cinneah El-Amin is the brains behind Flynanced, empowering “9-5 hotties” to earn more and build wealth. Having doubled her salary from $72,000 to $186,000, El-Amin shares her journey, offering practical advice for women striving to create their dream lives while navigating their careers and side hustles.
Quiet Hiring: What are the red flags?
Joy Pittman, founder and CEO of HR for the Culture, is disrupting the hiring landscape. With 17 years of HR experience, she launched her consulting firm to advocate for Black women and people of color in the workplace. Pittman educates Black professionals about the signs of “Quiet Hiring” and empowers them to recognize and address unfair practices.
LaNell Grant talks music, womanhood, purpose
LaNell Grant, a trailblazing independent artist and award-winning music producer, takes center stage with her solo debut album, “I Ain’t Gone Hold You.” With two NAACP Image Awards to her name, Grant champions women through her organization “Women Produce,” redefining the local music scene with her thought-provoking lyrics and unapologetic artistry.
Radical Black Girl’s Destiny Polk redefines artistic activism
Destiny Polk, the founder of Radical Black Girl, prioritizes community needs through art activism. Relocating from Boston to Houston, Polk focuses on marginalized communities, particularly low-income communities of color, women of color, and young Black girls. Her platform challenges historical narratives and amplifies suppressed voices.
ChòpnBlọk: Houston’s gateway to rich African cuisine
Ope Amosu, entrepreneur and chef, brings the rich flavors of West African cuisine to Houston with ChòpnBlọk. Located at Post Houston, his restaurant has become a cultural hub, attracting food enthusiasts from diverse backgrounds. Amosu recently hosted Chopd & Stewd 2023, celebrating the West African diaspora through culinary and cultural festivities.
Michelle Alozie balances Houston Dash soccer, medicine
Meet Michelle Alozie, a Houston Dash Forward and Yale University graduate in microbiology. Balancing a soccer career with aspirations in medicine, Alozie debuted for the Nigerian national team during the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, showcasing her prowess both on and off the field.
