Juneteenth marks a powerful moment in American history. This day, June 19, has become a time of reflection, resilience and celebration for the Black community, symbolizing liberation and the ongoing pursuit of equity, opportunity and recognition.
As we celebrate Juneteenth this year, we turn the spotlight on Black entrepreneurs who continue to lead with innovation, passion and purpose—turning visions into impactful ventures that uplift our communities and redefine the possibilities of what entrepreneurship can look like.
We talked with three incredible founders to learn what inspired them to start their ventures, how they’ve stayed grounded in their identity and the lessons they would like to pass along to the next generation of Black entrepreneurs.
What sparked your journey as a founder, and how has your background influenced the way you solve problems or create value?
Jai Marie of Girl Get Your Body Fit shares that her business was born from a personal moment of struggle. At just 13 years old, she turned to exercise as a way to heal from emotional pain. That journey grew into a thriving wellness community for women, focused on physical, spiritual and emotional transformation. “I’ve been an entrepreneur since I was 7,” Jai recalls. “And I committed then that no matter how long it would take, I would build my business into a global brand.”
Micah Hedrick, the mind behind Business Genie, saw an opportunity to help small business owners, many of whom were overwhelmed trying to manage everything on paper. “Coming from a background where resourcefulness was a necessity, I’ve always been driven to simplify the complicated,” he says. His app now helps underserved service-based businesses operate with the sophistication of large enterprises, without the burden.
Caleb Bell, founder of Perceptions, created his marketing firm as a way to turn personal pain into purpose. “It helped my family and me create an avenue for abuse survivors like us to find resources and solve problems peacefully,” he shares. His business builds awareness through campaigns that foster healing, hope and connection.
How do you bring fresh energy to your industry—and what excites you most about how your venture is growing?
For Jai, the innovation lies in empathy. Every product and experience she curates through Girl Get Your Body Fit comes from asking, “How could I help the version of me who once struggled?” Whether it’s her fresh juice service, dance-based fitness classes or spiritual coaching, Jai sees her venture as a healing space—and one she dreamed of long before others believed in it.
With Business Genie, Micah Hedrick finds fresh energy in his customers’ stories. By listening deeply to the challenges faced by service professionals—from landscapers to HVAC techs—he’s able to design features that truly matter. “We’re helping businesses go from chaos to streamlined in days, not months,” he says.
For Caleb Bell, founder of Perceptions, community is the fuel behind his business growth. “We’re cultivating a vibrant community that’s committed to uplifting each other,” he says. “That opens new doors for economic growth, mental wellness and celebrating our cultural heritage.”
How has your identity as a Black entrepreneur shaped your approach to business and leadership?
The warmth and resilience of Jai’s upbringing in Detroit echo throughout her business. At Girl Get Your Body Fit, she channels memories of her Granny’s house—where comfort, soul food, and unconditional acceptance filled every room—into each client’s experience. “I think my Blackness is the reason our spaces feel like coming home,” Jai reflects, infusing that sense of belonging into everything she builds.
Informed by his own journey and the challenges he’s witnessed firsthand, Micah takes a deeply intentional approach to building Business Genie. His lived experience as a Black founder fuels his mission to dismantle barriers and create tools that empower overlooked business owners. “That awareness makes me intentional about creating tools that level the playing field,” he explains.
For Caleb, launching Perceptions is more than a business move—it’s a declaration of freedom and a tribute to generational strength. “Being a Black entrepreneur is about breaking through generational obstacles with confidence and kindness,” he says, embodying a legacy of resilience that inspires the next wave of leaders.
How do you stay connected to your community, and how does your work create space for others?
Through her venture Girl Get Your Body Fit, Jai stays deeply rooted in the community, whether she’s hosting in-person events or leading virtual sessions. But for her, fitness is only part of the equation. “Exercise,” she says, “is a tool for transforming mindset and relationships.” Her work empowers women to believe they can choose better in every area of life.
For Micah, staying connected to community networks like Chandler Endeavor and his local church is a key part of his entrepreneurial journey with Business Genie. He’s driven by a desire to help others reclaim their time and peace of mind. “Whether it’s automating invoices or helping someone hire their first employee, we’re creating space for others to grow,” he explains.At Perceptions, Caleb extends his mission beyond business by actively engaging in advocacy and collaboration. He partners with companies and community programs to support abuse survivors, making sure they’re seen, heard and uplifted. “We work to ensure they have the resources and care they need to rebuild,” he shares.
What’s one lesson you’d share with fellow Black entrepreneurs?
Jai encourages surrender and faith. “I believe our ideas come from God,” she says. “I’ve been on the brink of shutting my business down more than once—but giving my business back to God brought clarity, clients around the world and new doors I couldn’t have imagined.”
Micah keeps it simple and powerful: “Start with the problem, not the product. Build something real for people, and keep showing up.”
Caleb adds: “Embrace resilience and lead with kindness. Let your actions reflect your values and your vision.”
Three founders. Three unique industries. One powerful community.
This Juneteenth, we celebrate the brilliance, resilience and contributions of Black-owned businesses—each one helping shape our economy and inspire future generations.
Black entrepreneurs are building companies that lead and define culture and consumer trends. Supporting these businesses isn’t just about making a purchase—it’s about investing in legacies, opening doors and fueling dreams. It’s a commitment to excellence, strong leadership, and the lasting impact that customers and investors recognize and trust.
To connect with great founders and community change-makers, join us at one of our spaces across the Valley.
Happy Juneteenth, from our community to yours.
