Event Recap: BECO EXPO 2025 Champions Black Business, Policy & Financial Empowerment in Seattle
On Saturday, May 31st, the Black Eco Chamber hosted its 2nd Annual BECO EXPO at the stunning Columbia Tower Club in Seattle. The event brought together a dynamic mix of Black professionals, entrepreneurs, students, civic leaders, and creatives for a full day of business empowerment, cultural celebration, and high-level networking.
The day began with the Young Professionals & Entrepreneurs Panel, offering high school and college students real-world guidance on resumes, entrepreneurship, and leadership. Panelists included Quincy Henry (Owner, Campfire Coffee), Geoff Foy (Business Development – University of Washington), and was co-moderated by Candice Richardsonand Lorna Pack of Brave New World Enterprises.
At 11:00 AM, the Power, Policy & Prosperity Panel featured members of the Washington State Black Caucus, including Rep. Kristine Reeves, Sen. T’wina Nobles, and Rep. Chipalo Street, moderated by Jesse Johnson of the Washington State Treasurer’s Office. The panel offered sharp insights into how government is shaping access to capital and economic opportunity for small businesses.
At 12:30 PM, the Financial Futures Panel titled “From Banks to Blockchain: Financial Literacy and Futures” explored the evolving financial landscape through the lens of traditional and emerging systems. Moderated by Shyan Selah, panelists included Butch Chelliah (CEO, BizConnect360) and Daniel Blue (Branch Service Manager, GESA Credit Union), who spoke on the intersection of financial inclusion, innovation, and economic growth in the Black community.
The day concluded with a powerful keynote interview with Omar Gooding, conducted by Shyan Selah and co-presented by Brave New World Enterprises and The Artist Workshop. Together, they explored the role of creativity, entrepreneurship, and legacy-building in shaping Black cultural and economic power.
Later that evening, the celebration continued at the historic Royal Esquire Club with the official BECO EXPO Afterparty, complete with live entertainment, delicious food from Island Soul, and the signature Shyan Selah Presents: Sip & Smoke Lounge on the outdoor patio.
To our panelists, speakers, sponsors, vendors, volunteers, and attendees—thank you for making BECO EXPO 2025 a transformative experience. Together, we’re not just creating events—we’re building an economic legacy for generations to come.
