#United States #BLACK ENTERPRISE #Karen Carter #Ursula Burns #Bal Harbour

Celebrating Trailblazers: The 2026 BECA Manifest Awards

On October 8, 2026, the prestigious BECA Manifest Awards took place at The St. Regis Bal Harbour in Florida, highlighting influential figures in the marketing and business community. This year's event marked the fifth anniversary of BECA, an organization dedicated to fostering leadership and inclusivity within the marketing sector.

Jerri DeVard, the Founder and CEO of BECA, expressed pride over the community's achievements, stating that the awards are not just about recognizing accomplishments, but also about inspiring future leaders. The event was co-hosted by notable figures Bozoma Saint John and Chris Foster, both founding members of BECA, adding glamour and significance to the occasion.

Honorees of the Night

Among the prestigious honorees were:

• - Ursula Burns, recognized with the Icon Award for her groundbreaking leadership as the first Black woman to head a Fortune 500 company. Burns has dedicated her career to creating opportunities and fostering innovation.
• - Karen S. Carter, the first Black woman to lead Dow, received the Trailblazer Award for her remarkable journey and commitment to nurturing future leaders.
• - Procter & Gamble was honored with the Corporate Champion Award, acknowledging its ongoing support for leadership development and community impact.
• - Black Enterprise was the recipient of the inaugural Beacon of Light Award, honoring its commitment to empowering the Black business community since its establishment in 1970.

These awards highlighted the importance of diverse leadership and the need for supportive environments that uplift underrepresented groups in business.

Investing in Future Leaders

The awards night also showcased the graduation of 17 Future Leaders from the BECA Playbook Class of 2026, reinforcing the organization's mission to cultivate the next generation of marketing executives. The Playbook program emphasizes mentorship, education, and professional growth, setting a foundation for aspiring leaders to thrive in the competitive business world.

An Invaluable Network

BECA’s commitment to inclusivity and empowerment aligns with its foundational principles of sharing knowledge and elevating future leaders. Together with its corporate partners, including Title Sponsor Procter & Gamble, BECA creates opportunities that not only recognize current leaders but also invest in the leadership potential of tomorrow.

As the event concluded, it served as a powerful mandate for individuals and organizations alike to break barriers and create pathways for future generations, ensuring that the legacy of leadership continues to evolve in a diverse and inclusive manner.