PHOTOS: BOBE Symposium Gathers Leaders to Discuss Black Business Legacy
Melvin Slaughter (left) and The Big O (right) pose at the 2026 Black-Owned Business Excellence (BOBE) Symposium at the Seattle Public Library last week. (Photo: Erik Kalligraphy)
Converge co-founders Erik Kalligraphy and The Big O recently attended the 2026 Black-Owned Business Excellence (BOBE) Symposium at the Seattle Public Library main branch. Aimed at addressing the significant challenges facing Black-owned businesses and honoring Black business owners and allies in the region, the Symposium introduced a new agenda centered on long-term business viability.
The symposium gathered founders, investors, ecosystem builders, and community leaders from across Washington State under the theme: Power Moves: Beyond Boundaries — From Vision to Legacy. This included Solutions for Seattle/Proper Management Consulting founder Melvin Slaughter, Ezell’s Chicken co-founder and CEO Lewis Rudd, community activist and artist Elaine Simons, co-founder of Zara Jo Beauty Supply Jamal Wilson, and more.
The day culminated in recognizing outstanding leadership and impact, including presenting the prestigious Community’s Choice Awards, each accompanied by a $1,000 grant for the recipients. It was a day of shared knowledge, community building, and celebrating the inspiration Black business owners that make the Emerald City great.
Photos curated by Erik Kalligraphy
