Groundbreaking Exhibit "Heroes on Long Island" Coming to Adelphi University - Curator Shirley Darkeh 3.14.26

Garden City, New York Feb. 12, 2026 - The Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc. (LIAACC) successfully hosted Celebrating Milestones, Presence & Future Success on Tuesday, Feb. 10, at Fogo de Chão in Huntington, attracted business owners, civic partners and regional stakeholders to celebrate the strength and economic contributions of the Black business community.

The event emphasized the “Power of Partnerships” and showcased a wide range of collaborative initiatives supporting entrepreneurship and economic growth across Long Island.

Highlights of the evening included dynamic networking, recognition of local business achievements and engaging conversations about future collaborations.

Attendees represented the full spectrum of the local business ecosystem, from early-stage founders to established corporate leaders.

Participating Organizations Background

The event was presented by several community partners committed to expanding opportunity and economic equity:

• Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc. - The largest African American chamber serving Kings, Nassau, Queens and Suffolk counties, LIAACC is dedicated to building an inclusive Long Island economy where African American businesses thrive, scale and create generational impact through advocacy, education and access to capital.
• African American Small Business Foundation, Inc. — A nonprofit focused on advancing economic equity by empowering minority and underserved entrepreneurs with educational resources, advocacy and pathways to capital, enabling job creation and financial sustainability.
• 100 Black Men of Eastern New York, Inc. — A regional chapter of a national organization committed to mentoring, education and economic empowerment for African American youth and families.

“We were thrilled by the strong turnout and the spirit of collaboration at this year’s event,” said [Spokesperson], reaffirming LIAACC’s mission to strengthen business connections and cultivate sustainable growth throughout the region.

“The African American Small Business Foundation, Inc.’s goal is to bring quality cultural programming to the region, and create a positive impact which will empower the community economically. Stronger communities create sustainable economies and decrease the wealth gap and benefits the region by strengthening the ecosystem.” Phil Andrews, Founding President of the African American Small Business Foundation, Inc.

The event also serves as a platform to raise awareness about the Foundation’s expanding initiatives and partnerships designed to close opportunity gaps and create pathways for economic empowerment.

About the African American Small Business Foundation, Inc.: The African American Small Business Foundation, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing economic equity by supporting minority and underserved entrepreneurs. Through education, advocacy, mentorship, and access to resources, the Foundation works to build a more inclusive and resilient small business ecosystem across New York State.

Up Next: “Homegrown Heroes of Long Island” – March 14, 2026

GARDEN CITY, N.Y., Feb. 12, 2026 For those who were unable to attend the Feb. 10 celebration, the Long Island business community has another opportunity to engage on Saturday, March 14, at Homegrown Heroes of Long Island, a fundraising and recognition event celebrating entrepreneurs and leaders whose contributions have shaped the regional economy. The event will be held from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Adelphi University Performing Arts Center.

The evening will honor individuals and organizations whose dedication and success exemplify local leadership and community impact. Proceeds support youth entrepreneurship programs, business education initiatives and expanded access to economic resources for historically underserved founders.

Registration & Tickets: Attendees may register and purchase tickets online through the event platform. Ticket levels include Visionary, Benefactor, Champion, Supporter and Friend of the Cause. Visit the event page to secure seats and sponsorship opportunities:

Homegrown Heroes of Long Island ticketing: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/homegrown-heroes-of-long-island

About the Curator — Shirley Darkeh: Shirley Darkeh is an acclaimed curator, artist, entrepreneur, poet and community advocate whose six-decade career has profoundly influenced Long Island’s cultural landscape. She currently serves as the curator for the Homegrown Heroes of Long Island exhibit. Mrs. Darkeh has pioneered community arts programming, hosted public affairs radio, and founded Project Pride, a youth self-development initiative. Her leadership includes roles in corporate finance and nonprofit innovation, and she has been recognized for her enduring commitment to civic engagement and cultural preservation.

About: Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc. - The Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc. fosters economic development, business growth and equitable opportunities for African American and minority-owned enterprises across Long Island. Through advocacy, education and strategic partnerships, LIAACC supports business leaders at every stage of growth.