Minority Business Opportunity Awards
Each year, the Business Development Connection of the Greater Shreveport Chamber recognizes exceptional business owners and professionals whose work is transforming our community through the Minority Business Opportunity Awards. This year’s program is presented by Willis Knighton Health, whose support helps us shine a spotlight on the tenacity, innovation and diversity that define the spirit of Northwest Louisiana’s business landscape.
The 2025 class of honorees is a remarkable group of changemakers whose stories reflect courage, creativity and commitment. From startups to seasoned professionals, each individual featured in the pages ahead embodies the determination to create opportunity, uplift others and shape a brighter future for our region.
We are especially honored this year to celebrate Reginald W. Abrams, Sr. as the Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient, recognizing his enduring contributions, visionary leadership and unwavering dedication to community advancement. We are also delighted to recognize Module X Solutions as the Business of the Year, applauding their excellence in innovation, growth and regional impact.
This year’s Emerging Business Honorees, Small Business Owner Honorees, Top Business Professional Honorees and Non-Profit Professional Honorees represent a rich tapestry of talent, from entrepreneurs and educators to community advocates and industry leaders. Their dedication reflects a shared mission: to elevate, empower and enrich the communities they serve.
We invite you to join us in honoring their achievements on Thursday, June 26, at 6:30 p.m., be inspired by their journeys and help us celebrate the power of purpose-driven leadership.
For reservations or more information, please visit www.shreveportchamber.org or call 318-677-2500.
Tim Magner, President
Greater Shreveport Chamber of Commerce
Lifetime Achievement Recipient
Reginald W. Abrams, Sr.
Reginald Abrams, Sr. is a graduate of Northeast Louisiana University with a Bachelor of Science in pharmacy and LSU Law School with a Juris Doctorate. He has maintained his pharmacy license since 1978 and made history as the first minority associate at the prominent Shreveport law firm Blanchard, Walker, O’Quin and Roberts, where he later became a partner. In 1995, he and Julie Lafargue formed their law firm, and Mr. Abrams has continued as sole owner since 2019. His representative clients include the Caddo Parish School Board as general counsel, the city of Shreveport as a litigator, David Raines Community Health Center, and various insurance companies and businesses.
Deeply committed to public service, Mr. Abrams has served on numerous community boards to benefit the citizens of Shreveport. His leadership roles include serving on the boards of the Caddo Parish Indigent Defender, the Military Affairs Council, the Louisiana Pharmacist Association, the Biomedical Research Foundation, the Red Cross and Providence House. He has served as president of the Shreveport Chamber of Commerce, Goodwill Industries and the Committee of 100 and was the first Black president of the Downtown Shreveport Rotary Club. He is also a board member of the LSU Health Shreveport Foundation and Basileus of the Rho Omega Chapter of Omega Psi Phi. Mr. Abrams has been married to his wife, Renee, for 47 years, and they have one son, Reginald Jr.
Business of the Year Recipient
Module X Solutions
Module X Solutions is a rapidly growing integrator of custom-engineered modular solutions serving customers in renewable energy, data center network infrastructure, telecommunications and utility sectors. MXS is honored to receive the Minority Business Opportunity Award, a recognition that speaks to our mission of creating lasting opportunities for our team and the Shreveport community.
At MXS, we’re driven by our core values: to meaningfully improve the lives of our employees and to make positive contributions to the greater Shreveport community. We are proud of our 275+ diverse workforce, which our customers recognize for delivering exceptional quality and innovation. We are growing and are looking to add to our team. Almost half of our team identifies as a racial or ethnic minority.
We invest in our community by partnering with local trade schools, job reentry programs and halfway houses to help people elevate their lives. We invest in our people through skill development and apprenticeship programs. We’re proud to be a multiyear partner with the Louisiana Workforce Commission’s Incumbent Worker Training Program. At MXS, opportunity isn’t a promise; it’s part of our “shop floor first” culture and a belief that “when you succeed, MXS succeeds!”
Emerging Business of the Year Honorees
Louisiana Auto Tag & Title, LLC - Joe and Chaunta Mero
Louisiana Auto Tag & Title, LLC, owned by Joe and Chaunta Mero, is a locally owned, licensed and bonded public tag agency serving the Shreveport community. Established in 2023, the agency is an authorized provider for the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles, offering fast and convenient services, including title transfers, registration renewals, duplicate titles, license plate cancellations and notary services. With a strong focus on exceptional customer care, the agency is known for its welcoming atmosphere and personalized service.
In addition to its core offerings, Louisiana Auto Tag & Title supports the community through its nonprofit arm, the Mero Foundation, which provides resources to youth, seniors and women’s health initiatives. Located at 2960 W. Bert Kouns Industrial Loop, the business continues to grow as a trusted and compassionate service provider in the region.
The Squire Group, LLC – Racheal Squire
Racheal Squire is the founder of The Squire Group, a life insurance company rooted in legacy, compassion and community transformation.
After leaving corporate life, she stepped boldly into a vision built on faith and a commitment to do things differently. What began as a leap has become a mission: to build a company where people matter, relationships thrive and the impact lasts. Racheal leads with heart, cultivating a culture where clients feel seen and supported, and growth is limitless.
Her husband, Mark, plays a vital role in the day-to-day operations and overall support of the business, helping sustain its momentum and mission. Though her influence continues to grow, her roots remain in Shreveport, La., where legacy and community remain the heartbeat of her mission. Her mission is to make an impact; her legacy is love in action.
Small Business Owner of the Year Honorees
Brent Latin, Young Professionals Entertainment (YPE)
Brent Latin is the president and CEO of Young Professionals Entertainment (YPE), a media, marketing and entertainment company based in Shreveport, La. Founded while he was still in high school, YPE also operates as a professional recording studio. Brent’s entrepreneurial journey began at age 7 with a comic book series and continued at 12 when he started filming basketball games. A multi-instrumentalist, he has performed nationwide and led YPE to multiple business honors, including Small Business of the Year in 2013 and top small business recognition in 2019.
Brent earned his bachelor’s degree in accounting from Louisiana Tech and is a proud member of Kappa Alpha Psi and Delta Sigma Pi. He is married to Jessica and is a devoted father to Alexander and Bella. His life motto is: “Love God, Love Yourself, Love People.”
Chantelle Douglas, The Queen of Digital Marketing
Chantelle Douglas is the founder of Write For You Media, a boutique digital marketing agency empowering women in wellness and service-based businesses to show up with clarity, confidence and consistency. The idea was born in 2016 and officially launched in 2018 — before motherhood, before the titles — with just a vision, strategy and a deep desire to help others grow. Now a Shreveport-based solopreneur and mother of three, Chantelle continues to build her brand while homeschooling and guiding clients with a strategy rooted in storytelling, soul and systems.
She is also the founder of Black Women in Business Northwest Louisiana, a community of over 2,000 members supporting emerging entrepreneurs. Whether behind the screen or in the streets, Chantelle is committed to helping small businesses shine — loud, proud and profitable.
Top Business Professional of the Year Honorees
Melissa Airhart
Melissa Airhart is an account executive at KTBS 3. An Air Force brat and veteran, she graduated from LSU Shreveport with a Bachelor of Arts in mass communication, with an emphasis in public relations and journalism.
In addition to her role at KTBS, Melissa’s diverse experience includes reporting for The Shreveport Times, producing news at KTBS, editing Parishscope Magazine for the Junior League of Shreveport-Bossier, and freelance writing for 318 Forum and CityLife magazines. She has also contributed to Eye on SB photography and content creation. Melissa is an active Phi Mu Fraternity alumna and volunteer, a sustainer in the Junior League of Shreveport-Bossier and a member of the Krewe of Justinian. She is the proud mother of three and loves Broadway, Disney, live music and Mardi Gras!
Byron Dawson
Byron Dawson is the head football coach at Centenary College and a nationally recognized speaker, mentor and leader. He guided Centenary’s historic return to football with a 9–1 inaugural season in 2023. A former LSU standout, Dawson spent 16 years coaching at Evangel Christian Academy, leading the team to seven state championship appearances, a 2016 state title and national recognition. His teams have produced 10 NFL players and over 40 Division I signees. He has also coached at Tulane, interned with the LA Rams and spoken at top programs, including LSU, Notre Dame and the University of Tennessee.
Through his keynote and motivational speaking, Dawson empowers athletes, business leaders and communities nationwide with a message of purpose, resilience and faith.
Brandi Falting
Brandi Falting, a lifelong resident of the Bossier/Shreveport area, is a Bossier High School graduate and attended LSU Shreveport. She serves as the commercial development and lending officer for RRCU in Louisiana, bringing extensive experience in commercial lending, corporate banking, operations and credit union leadership. Known for building strong relationships and driving business growth, Brandi is passionate about mentoring and empowering teams. She actively volunteers with local nonprofits and values working at RRCU, which supports her dedication to service.
A firm believer that time is a precious gift, Brandi strives to make a meaningful impact in her community with a servant’s heart. She is also the proud owner of Dust Till Done, a woman-owned business, further reflecting her entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to excellence.
Damien Ford
As an associate architect and project manager with Mike McSwain Architect for nearly 13 years, Damien Ford has led a wide range of projects from concept to completion — locally, nationally and internationally. After earning his master’s degree from Louisiana Tech, he dedicated himself to professional growth and uplifting his community. Damien is a proud husband to Jazmine, his wife of over 10 years, and father to two amazing boys, Karter and Aiden. He actively serves on multiple committees and volunteers his time, sharing knowledge and creating opportunities for others.
As a black male in a profession-driven field, Damien believes in being a visible example of success for young Black men striving for meaningful careers and prosperous lives. Every day, he aims to build not only lasting structures but also lasting impact.
Aljay Foreman
Aljay Foreman is a native of Beaumont, Texas. While in high school, he received numerous athletic and academic honors, including admission offers from the United States Military Academy at West Point and the United States Air Force Academy. He went on to attend Centenary College, where he majored in physics.
During his time there, he was named to several Academic All-Conference teams, awarded Male Student-Athlete of the Year and recognized on multiple dean’s lists. After graduating from Centenary, Aljay earned his master’s degree from the University of Pittsburgh in 1998.
Currently, he serves as vice president and administrator of Willis Knighton North, where he has been employed for over 26 years. Aljay and his wife, Shari, of 24 years, have one daughter, Jada Foreman, who is currently a junior at Dillard University in New Orleans.
Dr. Shagranda Moch Traveler
Dr. Shagranda Moch Traveler is a strategic corporate executive, award-winning leader and entrepreneur with a passion for transforming organizations and communities. She began her professional career managing leadership development initiatives at the Greater Shreveport Chamber of Commerce and has since led high-impact projects across corporate, nonprofit and entrepreneurial sectors. With 20 years of progressive experience driving global workforce development, operational efficiencies and organizational change solutions in both the nonprofit and financial services industries, Dr. Traveler’s determination and commitment to excellence are her superpowers.
A native of Shreveport, Dr. Traveler is a graduate of Caddo Magnet High School and was named Outstanding Business Student by Louisiana Tech University’s College of Business. She is a champion for empowerment and impact — whether in the boardroom or the community.
Nonprofit Professional of the Year Honorees
Jordan Fong
Jordan Fong currently serves as the communications coordinator and graphic designer for The Arc Caddo-Bossier, a local nonprofit dedicated to building unlimited opportunities for people with disabilities. In addition, she is the secretary and co-chair of the American Advertising Federation of Shreveport-Bossier (AAFSB). Jordan is an alumna of Centenary College of Louisiana, where she contributed to both the campus newspaper and the literary and art magazine. Her passion is storytelling — whether through video, print or design.
When she’s not at work, you can find her at a movie theater, traveling to a new city or enjoying a meal at Cheng’s Garden.
C. Chanel Jackson
C. Chanel Jackson, a Shreveport native and graduate of Northwestern State University, is the executive director of Families Helping Families Region 7. She played a pivotal role in establishing the organization, becoming one of the youngest executive directors to secure nonprofit status and build the office from the ground up.
With over 24 years of experience advocating for individuals with disabilities, Chanel serves on multiple task forces and committees to ensure access to critical resources and support.
Under her leadership, Families Helping Families Region 7 has provided information, training and assistance to more than 68,000 individuals and professionals. A 40 Under 40 honoree, Chanel is dedicated to empowering families and believes that serving others is her life’s calling.
Nina Marie
Nina Marie is a purpose-driven youth advocate, transformational speaker and life strategist who leads with faith, family, fitness, finances and a whole lot of fun. A proud graduate of Wiley College, she founded The SPOT International to empower youth and young adults to dream globally and lead locally. Raised in a single-parent home and having overcome the challenges of being a teen parent, Nina’s tenacity and determination fueled her purpose — refusing to let obstacles define her future.
Through her podcast, Life Talks, she shares authentic conversations inspired by her own experiences, encouraging listeners to walk boldly and unapologetically in their purpose. Nina is currently pursuing her Master of Social Work at Grambling State University, continuing her mission to uplift the next generation with passion and joy.
Julie Gilley Milam
Julie Gilley Milam is the senior financial analyst for the Entrepreneurial Accelerator Program (EAP), a division of BRF, where she provides services to high-growth entrepreneurs to spark economic development in the region. With over 26 years of experience in entrepreneurial assistance, corporate finance, financial markets and business consulting, she has a proven record of producing high-quality deliverables in startup assessment, program management, process transformation, organizational change, financial modeling and business plan development. Julie is also known for successfully leading diverse teams.
She has gained experience across the country in cities including Washington, D.C., New York City, Indianapolis, Boca Raton and Shreveport/Bossier City. Julie is a graduate of C.E. Byrd High School and earned a Bachelor of Science in finance from Louisiana State University A&M, followed by a Master of Business Administration from Louisiana State University Shreveport.
Beth Smiley
Beth Smiley is a self-professed word and color nerd. With nearly 32 years of experience editing and designing a magazine about growing roses for the American Rose Society, she has gained an impressive vocabulary in scientific and horticultural terms, along with a textbook’s worth of color theory — knowledge she never imagined acquiring when beginning her dream job. This creative journey has added beauty and depth to her writing, photography and appreciation for the passions that drive people beyond what they ever dreamed possible.
A lifelong Bossier City resident and graduate of LSU Shreveport, Beth is proud to share all the exciting things to do in the SBC. Tourism may not have been the career path she expected, but it’s one she absolutely loves being a part of.
Carolyn A. Tillman
Carolyn Tillman is a native of Shreveport, La., and currently serves as the community relations and marketing manager for Goodwill Industries of North Louisiana. In this role, she oversees fundraising, community engagement and event coordination for the organization. Carolyn approaches her work with a deep passion for serving others and creating positive change. She also uses her leadership training to guide, develop and mentor teen girls and young women.
Actively involved in her community, Carolyn serves on the board of directors at New Covenant Church of God, where she also serves as the board secretary and church secretary. She also serves on the boards of the YWCA of Northwest Louisiana and the Northwest Louisiana Education Leadership and Training Foundation (N.E.L.T.). Carolyn holds a strong appreciation for both humanity and the
