In recognition of National Minority Enterprise Development (MED) Week, the Kansas Dept. of Commerce’s Office of Minority and Women Business Development hosted their 39th annual Minority and Women Business Awards Gala. This year, the event was held in far southwest Kansas, at the Wild Sage Ranch in Hugoton.
The awards recognized companies and individuals from across the state in 14 categories, including the Governor’s Award of Excellence.
Some of the highlighted winners are:
Community Arts Engagement Award – Catherine Bell, Sew Simple Sewing, Lawrence
Inspired by her mother’s late-night sewing sessions, Catherine’s love for fashion led her to earn a degree in apparel design and technology, network in the vibrant fashion world of New York, and ultimately establish Sew Simple Sewing and Propperwear. Catherine, who is passionate about making this art form accessible to everyone, founded Sew Simple Sewing with a mission to simplify the craft, empowering individuals of all ages to embrace the beauty and skill of sewing.
Entrepreneur of the Year – Troy Brooks, Greatness Vodka, Wichita
Starting with little more than determination, Troy faced countless obstacles, each one a new challenge that he overcame with research, desire and an unshakeable belief in his vision. As the first Black-owned spirits company in Kansas history, Greatness Vodka has not only been embraced by the community but has also achieved remarkable success. It can be found in 130 liquor stores and 100 bars and restaurants.
Family Business Excellence Award – Breanna Bell, Curlology, Lawrence
Growing up as one of 11 children — six girls and five boys — Breonna was inspired by the challenges her family faced in finding quality hair care services. It helped lead her to opening Curlology and Prestige Hair Studio. It’s also a testament to her family’s legacy of entrepreneurship. Her father was an entrepreneur and so are seven of her siblings.
Other award categories and winners were:
Business Advocate of the Year – Raquel Arellano, Seward County Development Corporation
Community Impact Award – Brandi Lahey, The Wild Sage Ranch LLC
Corporation of the Year – Tammy Martin, Burns & McDonnell
Innovation Award – Ashley Bettis, PTMW, Inc.
Lifetime Achievement Award – Lisa Sisley, New Boston Creative Group LLC
Media Achievement Award – Diana and Edward Reyes, Reyes Media Group
Minority-Owned Business of the Year – Junior Bridgeman, Heartland Coca-Cola
Women-Owned Business of the Year – Cori Kohlmeier, Advantage Marketing
Tourism Impact Award – Marcia Rozell, Visit Manhattan
Young Entrepreneur – Ellie Bowman, Prickly Pear Farm & Home
Governor’s Award of Excellence – Gabriel Munoz, The Toolbox: Small Business Resource Center
The Office of Minority and Women Business Development certifies businesses with designations of Minority Business Enterprise (MBE), Woman Business Enterprise (WBE), and Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE). MBEs, WBEs, and DBEs can participate in business education workshops and seminars through the office.
