The District’s shadow U.S. Representative Oye Owolewa (D) has been named one of the 2024 US Black Chamber of Commerce Power 50 under 40 awards.
On Oct. 11 at The Mayflower hotel in Northwest starting at 6 p.m., Owolewa will be honored alongside actor Michael B. Jordan, basketball player Angel Reese, Houston Texans quarterback CJ Stroud and gymnast Simone Biles and others. The honor follows the launch of Owolewa’s successful Capital Business Seminar, where business owners from underrepresented communities learn about the grants, contracting and certification process.
Owolewa created these seminars to help level the economic playing field by helping business owners meet change agents and learn how to prepare for success. Serving a majority-minority population in the District, Owolewa supports the chambers’ efforts to increase economic opportunities for Black and Brown business owners.
“I’d like to thank the U.S. Black Chambers of Commerce for this honor,” he said. “I appreciate the Black Chamber’s commitment to support local businesses. I dedicate this honor to my mother, Mrs. Bolade Yakubu-Owolewa. It was through her example that led me to public service as well as inspiring my business workshops. I also want to thank the Greater Washington Black Chamber of Commerce for the continued partnership and guidance. As D.C.’s representative, I am grateful to be able to serve a city of great people and trailblazers.
