Get The Scoop On How Project Still I Rise - Addresses Literacy Crisis with New Initiative

Help Us To continue to inform and empower our community Please Donate. Get The Scoop Weekly On the Global Black Community and Southeast Queens, NY. Subscribe to Our Mailing List.

Receive the Latest Events, News, Jobs, and Top Community Economic Development Stories Like this one Click Here | Reach up to 1.3 million people Promote

-------

Project Still I Rise Answers the Urgent Call for Change and Innovation in the Literacy Crisis with New Initiative

Our nation’s schools are in crisis, more than ever before. The stats are staggering with a disparate divide amongst various races for reading proficiency levels, which directly impacts academic performance and limits future opportunities.

Project Still I Rise is dedicated to empowering youth by equipping them with essential skills and knowledge for their future – including literacy, which serves as a foundation for academic success, career advancement, and self-sufficiency. Despite some progress made nationally, reading proficiency among Black students still falls short.

If trends continue, it will directly impact Black students’ academic performance and limit their future opportunities.

According to data from the 2024 NAEP, only:

• 12% of Black 4th graders and 38% of 8th graders scored at or above proficiency

• 59% of Asian 8th graders and 49% of Asian 4th graders achieved this standard

• 57% of White 8th graders and 56% of White 4th graders also performed at or above proficient levels.

This summer, Project Still I Rise launched one of its newest initiatives, Project LIT. This initiative takes a comprehensive and collaborative approach to inspiring a passion for literacy and promotes academic success by providing essential support to educators. Project LIT focuses on four main areas of literacy: Reading Literacy, Financial Literacy, STEM Literacy, and Community Sustainability.

The panel discussion provided an opportunity for the greater community to listen, learn, and gain insights into how they can further support literacy efforts beyond the classroom. “We are laser-focused on key problems and issues experienced in the community to strategically align with community changemakers to build on existing initiatives,” said Project Still I Rise’s Director, Kevin Mondy, Sr.

Get the Scoop On Why Black Americans, Caribbeans, and Africans Should Stop Beefing

Help Us To continue to inform and empower our community Please Donate. Get The Scoop Weekly On the Global Black Community and Southeast Queens, NY. Subscribe to Our Mailing List.

Receive the Latest Events, News, Jobs, and Top Community Economic Development Stories Like this one Click Here | Reach up to 1.3 million people Promote

-------

Stop the Divide-and-Conquer Game: Why Black Unity Matters More Than Ever

By Kamau Austin, Publisher The Black News Scoop

There is a troubling trend gaining traction on social media—an escalating quasi-movement pushing division between Black Americans, Caribbeans, and Africans. What we are witnessing is nothing new; it is a form of digital tribalism that plays directly into the hands of white supremacy. The goal is simple: divide and conquer.

Some myopic voices within groups like ADOS (American Descendants of Slavery) and FBA (Foundational Black Americans) are being encouraged to draw hard lines of separation from other people of African descent across the globe, often under the guise of fighting for reparations. While reparations is a legitimate and overdue cause, framing it in a way that alienates other Black communities is a recipe for isolation, weakness, ultimately in this white supremacist political climate a disaster.

A False Divide in the Face of Global Opportunity

It is both ironic and tragic. On one hand, some Black Americans are building successful businesses in Africa, forming partnerships with local Africans, and even becoming millionaires. On the other hand, too many are locked into online squabbles over identity and ownership of culture. Meanwhile, China, Russia, and the U.S. aggressively pursue Africa’s vast natural resources, recognizing the continent’s global importance.

Black America numbers around 44 million strong, but across the world there are nearly 2 billion people of African descent. Imagine the leverage, wealth, and influence that could be generated if these communities united instead of bickering. Yet many of us willingly invest in white-owned corporations and stock markets that marginalize Black enterprise, while criticizing those who try to build transnational Black businesses.

Shared Cultures, Shared Struggles

For anyone who has traveled to Africa—or even the Caribbean—the connections are undeniable. Black American culture was never created in a vacuum. It is deeply infused with African and Caribbean influences. The music, food, spirituality, and resilience are all branches of the same family tree.

That’s why reducing these conversations to petty arguments over cultural ownership, or worse, food debates like “whose rice and chicken dish is better,” is both juvenile and dangerous. It trivializes our shared history and distracts us from building collective economic and political power.

Teen Business Prodigy Gabby Goodwin Lands Major Retail Deal in 600 Claire’s Stores

Help Us To continue to inform and empower our community Please Donate. Get The Scoop Weekly On the Global Black Community and Southeast Queens, NY. Subscribe to Our Mailing List.

Receive the Latest Events, News, Jobs, and Top Community Economic Development Stories Like this one Click Here | Reach up to 1.3 million people Promote

-------

Gabby Goodwin Inventor of
Gabby Bows Lands
Retail Deal in 600 Claire’s Stores

Gabby Goodwin invented GaBBY Bows, the first and only anti-slip double-face double-snap barrette at the age of seven with her mom, Rozalynn, and holds three U.S. patents. The now teenage CEO just landed her GaBBY Bows in 600 Claire’s stores nationwide.

It has been an exciting few months for the recent high school graduate who received merit scholarship offers totaling more than $1 million (including four full rides) from eight esteemed universities before committing to enroll at Vanderbilt University as an Ingram Scholar. Gabby also secured a book deal from HarperCollins, and her first authored children’s book, Naturally Me at the Confidence Salon, was released May 27 everywhere books are sold.

Inspired by Gabby’s real-life Confidence Salon, this picture book inspires young readers to embrace their natural beauty, find their confidence, and follow their dreams.

Gabby’s retail deal with Claire’s has been in the works since May 2024, and though four colors of her GaBBY Bows are being launched in stores while the company is selling most of its North American business to private equity firm Ames Watson, there is still reason to celebrate.

Get The Scoop On Award Winning Social Empowering Attorney Zulu Ali Being Recognized by USA Today

Help Us To continue to inform and empower our community Please Donate. Get The Scoop Weekly On the Global Black Community and Southeast Queens, NY. Subscribe to Our Mailing List.

Receive the Latest Events, News, Jobs, and Top Community Economic Development Stories Like this one Click Here | Reach up to 1.3 million people Promote

-------

Highly Awarded Attorney Zulu Ali Is
Recognized by USA Today

Zulu Ali - Attorney Zulu Ali has been recognized as one of the Top Five Lawyers to Watch in 2025 by USA Today.

Attorney Ali isn’t just practicing law—he’s reshaping the meaning of justice for those often left behind. He founded and now leads the Law Offices of Zulu Ali & Associates, LLP as the principal attorney. The firm is recognized as the largest Black-owned practice in California’s Inland Empire and is ranked among the top five nationwide.

Few attorneys bring the kind of frontline experience Attorney Zulu Ali does. The experience he gained during his time serving in the military and law enforcement inspired him to represent the suppressed voices in court. These voices include immigrants, defendants, and common people looking for justice. His role in appellate matters has contributed to meaningful discussions in the area of immigration law.

13-Year-Old Author & Illustrator Saadiq Stevens Shares His Imagination To Help Autistic Children

Help Us To continue to inform and empower our community Please Donate. Get The Scoop Weekly On the Global Black Community and Southeast Queens, NY. Subscribe to Our Mailing List.

Receive the Latest Events, News, Jobs, and Top Community Economic Development Stories Like this one Click Here | Reach up to 1.3 million people Promote

-------

13-Year-Old Black Author & Illustrator Inspires Young Readers with Creativity, Diversity, and Heartfelt Storytelling

At just 13 years old, Saadiq Stevens is capturing the hearts of readers nationwide with his vibrant imagination, meaningful messages, and dedication to representing all children in literature. The Ridgeland, South Carolina native has already written and illustrated three engaging children’s books, each bursting with creativity and purpose.

Saadiq’s works range from playful educational adventures to heartfelt narratives that inspire empathy and awareness—particularly for children on the autism spectrum, a cause he proudly champions. His stories are not only entertaining but also foster acceptance, curiosity, and understanding in young minds.

Get The Scoop On How To Create A Thriving Wealth-Building Ecosystem In Your Community

Help Us To continue to inform and empower our community Please Donate. Get The Scoop Weekly On the Global Black Community and Southeast Queens, NY. Subscribe to Our Mailing List.

Receive the Latest Events, News, Jobs, and Top Community Economic Development Stories Like this one Click Here | Reach up to 1.3 million people Promote

-------

How To Create A Thriving Wealth-Building Ecosystem In Your Community
By Pierre Clark

By Pierre Clark, Managing Partner, NuMillennium Opportunity Capital, Inc.

There are cities and towns in America where Black people are thriving.
Take Atlanta, for example. According to reports, Atlanta is home to more than 11,000 Black millionaires.

Black Atlanteans are eating in restaurants they own, conducting business together, buying real estate from each other, and closing all kinds of deals within their own networks. One brother in real estate estimates that 95% of his business is conducted with other Black people.

Prince George’s County, Maryland, is another locale — home to one of the wealthiest enclaves of Black people in the country. Million-dollar homes owned by Black families sit side by side, supported by a network of Black-owned vendors and service providers.

Get The Scoop On 10 Practical Ways To Generate Wealth Now By Pierre Clark

Help Us To continue to inform and empower our community Please Donate. Get The Scoop Weekly On the Global Black Community and Southeast Queens, NY. Subscribe to Our Mailing List.

Receive the Latest Events, News, Jobs, and Top Community Economic Development Stories Like this one Click Here | Reach up to 1.3 million people Promote

-------

10 Practical Ways To
Generate Wealth Now
By Pierre Clark

There’s a lot of argument about whether we are in a recession right now.  But there’s no debate at all that for the last year, prices for basic goods and services have risen.

People have felt and are feeling the pinch on their savings and finances and their overall wealth. They are seeking practical right now ways to generate extra income and rebuild their wealth. Here are ten readily accessible ways to do so.

1. Sidehustle. A successful and profitable sidehustle can make/will make the difference between financial independence and struggle in your life. You can leverage all your skills and provide solutions and services that people need at a price you can set.

And you will be in control of a successful business that will provide freedom and income.

 
2. Reducing Expenses.  Another easy to improve your wealth is to cut unnecessary and unwise sending. COVID proved many things we buy (that we think we really need) we don’t.

Don’t buy that extra bag of snacks or hot dog just because you can or think you want it. Don’t spend that extra $10.00 on that streaming account.

Take it from me, reduce expenses and invest the difference. Your bank account and strengthened lifestyle will thank you later.

3. Selling Unused Items. Everything you have ever owned usually comes down to a few things you use or wear all the time and the rest just gathers dust. Sell the unused item if you’ve stopped using it or it no longer serves your needs. Then put the proceeds in an investment account.

Get The Scoop From NY Business Leader Phil Andrews On Why Technology Empowers Black Business Owners.

Help Us To continue to inform and empower our community Please Donate. Get The Scoop Weekly On the Global Black Community and Southeast Queens, NY. Subscribe to Our Mailing List.

Receive the Latest Events, News, Jobs, and Top Community Economic Development Stories Like this one Click Here | Reach up to 1.3 million people Promote

-------

Op-Ed: Technology Empowers Black Business Owners. Supporting Innovation Will Keep Them Competitive.

By Phil Andrews

August marked National Black Business Month, a time to celebrate the resilience, contributions, and success of Black entrepreneurs. As President Calvin Coolidge once said, “the chief business of the American people is business.”

This is as true today as it was nearly a century ago — and it holds for every American, especially the Black community. Black-owned business creation is surging. From 2017 to 2022, the number of businesses owned by a Black entrepreneur increased by nearly 57%. During those years, at least half of the new businesses were Black-owned.

The US Census estimates that Black entrepreneurs own 3.5 million businesses with an annual payroll of $40.5 billion.

Technology is fueling this boom in entrepreneurship and tearing down barriers. That’s especially true of artificial intelligence.

But to fully unlock AI’s economic potential, policymakers need to ensure that business owners and the workforce of the future are properly equipped to succeed. Albany and Washington should focus on investing in education and workforce training –– and resisting legislation and regulations that stifle rather than support our local innovators.

Get The Scoop On How Marcus and Shauanna Parker, Create Custom Glow-in-the-Dark Keyrings for Fundraisers and Events

Help Us To continue to inform and empower our community Please Donate. Get The Scoop Weekly On the Global Black Community and Southeast Queens, NY. Subscribe to Our Mailing List.

Receive the Latest Events, News, Jobs, and Top Community Economic Development Stories Like this one Click Here | Reach up to 1.3 million people Promote

-------

Marcus and Shauanna Parker Bring Custom
Glow-in-the-Dark Keyrings
for Fundraisers and Events

Marcus and Shauanna Parker, an African American couple from North Texas, are lighting up fundraising and personal branding with their innovative, solar-powered 3D printing lab — and now anyone can get in on the glow.

Through their company, GlowKeyRings, the couple has launched a $99 personalized package that transforms logos, mascots, and other designs into durable, glow-in-the-dark keyrings. The package includes two finished samples shipped directly to the customer, so you can see and feel the quality before ordering more.

Barnard Cherry Partners With His 3 Sons to Launch The Community-Based Digital Ecosystem - UMYO Network

Help Us To continue to inform and empower our community Please Donate. Get The Scoop Weekly On the Global Black Community and Southeast Queens, NY. Subscribe to Our Mailing List.

Receive the Latest Events, News, Jobs, and Top Community Economic Development Stories Like this one Click Here | Reach up to 1.3 million people Promote

-------

Barnard Cherry Partners With
His 3 Sons to Launch The
UMYO Network Community-Based
Digital Ecosystem

 UMYO Network is a groundbreaking digital ecosystem created and owned by African American father Gregory Barnard Cherry and his three sons—Gregory Jr., Isaac, and Isaiah. Together, this father-and-sons team built UMYO as a community-owned platform designed to prepare people for the future of artificial intelligence, automation, and economic disruption.

Their mission is simple but powerful: give everyday people—not politicians, corporations, or celebrities—the tools and opportunities to survive and thrive in a rapidly changing world.

Gregory’s journey to building UMYO began with hardship and redemption. The son of a reverend and military veteran, he suffered a brain injury at age 10 that left him struggling in school. After losing his brother to violence at 19, he spiraled into destructive behavior that landed him in prison.

He now views that prison sentence as a turning point that allowed him to rediscover faith, value life, and redirect his path. His experience forged the foundation for a lifelong mission: to create opportunities for youth and underserved communities often left behind by traditional systems.

George McKinney Reminds Us How Black Technologists Were Excluded From Profiting Fully From Their Labor

Help Us To continue to inform and empower our community Please Donate. Get The Scoop Weekly On the Global Black Community and Southeast Queens, NY. Subscribe to Our Mailing List.

Receive the Latest Events, News, Jobs, and Top Community Economic Development Stories Like this one Click Here | Reach up to 1.3 million people Promote

-------

Remember: How Black Technologists Were Excluded From Profiting Fully From Their Labor

By George McKinney, CEO of ViQUAL Medical Technology

By George McKinney, CEO of ViQUAL Medical Technology

Historically, many Black inventors and entrepreneurs faced exploitation, often not receiving the recognition or financial benefits they deserved. Some notable examples include: Lewis Howard Latimer—-An inventor and engineer who contributed to the development of the electric light bulb and telephone. Despite his significant contributions, he faced racial discrimination and limited recognition during his lifetime.

Marie Van Brittan Brown—-Invented the home security system in the 1960s. Although her invention became widely adopted, she did not initially receive the credit or financial benefits she deserved.

Garrett A. Morgan—-Invented the safety hood (early gas mask) and traffic light. Despite these innovations, Morgan struggled with financial and racial barriers.

Katherine Johnson---NASA Scientist 1918-2020. Exploited Marie Maynard Daly--Pioneered Cardiovascular research. Exploited Black Companies and Inventors in Medical Tech and Biotech Industries While specific instances of exploitation are less documented publicly, Black entrepreneurs and inventors in these sectors often face systemic barriers, including limited access to funding, mentorship, and markets.

Some notable figures and companies include: Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett—-A prominent scientist involved in mRNA vaccine development at NIH. While her work is highly recognized now, Black scientists historically faced systemic biases that limited opportunities and recognition. Many Black-led startups in biotech and health tech are emerging but often encounter challenges related to funding and market access -like for instance OPKO Health and other Black-led biotech startups.