Down I-5 in the Rose City, Melody Brown, a passionate entrepreneur and hairstylist, has created a haven for Black hair and beauty with her salon, L&M Hair Company. Melody's journey began in elementary school, where she faced teasing and insecurity about her hair, a common experience for many young Black girls navigating predominantly white spaces. Determined to take control of her narrative and embrace her natural beauty, she started practicing braiding on her own hair, discovering a hidden talent and an unshakeable passion that would ultimately shape her future.

Converge Media has been following the Rainier Beach High School redevelopment project since its inception, documenting every step of this transformative journey. From the initial planning phases to the groundbreaking ceremony, the pouring of the foundation, and the gradual rise of the walls, we've been there to witness the progress.

On November 29th, from 12pm to 2pm, come to Simply Soulful in the Central District of Seattle and join Besa Gordon for her Buy Black Brunch for an afternoon of good food and good company, all while supporting Black-owned businesses. The ticket comes with 2 mimosas plus and your choice of, Simply Breakfast, Shrimp & Grits, Chicken & Waffles, Bananas Foster Waffles or Strawberry Waffles, Catfish Dinner, or Chicken Dinner.

The Buy Black Card program, spearheaded by Intentionalist founder and CEO Laura Clise, is making significant strides in its mission to bolster Black-owned businesses. Now in its second year, this initiative transcends the concept of a mere gift card; it's a powerful instrument for direct investment in the success of Black-owned enterprises. This year, the program has joined forces with Besa Gordon, the charismatic host of Back2Besa on FOX 13 Seattle, to further amplify its reach and impact.

Chief Tunji Awodi, a Seattle-based Ethnomusicologist, is passionate about using indigenous African culture to empower and heal communities. As the Executive Director of The Hawk Foundation, he provides multicultural education and drum facilitation throughout the Pacific Northwest. Chief Awodi's expertise in Bata dance and drum traditions, combined with his dedication to cultural preservation, makes him a powerful advocate for the transformative power of music and heritage.

Stepping into the Shuga Shaq is like entering a pulsating haven of self-expression. The atmosphere is alive with the rhythm of good music and the sight of smiling faces adorned in a kaleidoscope of unique and expressive outfits. Attendees, liberated from societal constraints, engage in open and affectionate interactions. Whether it's through dancing, deep conversations, or simply basking in the collective energy, one thing for sure is that the Shuga Shaq is lit!

The Odunde Festival celebrates its 40th anniversary on November 16, offering a dynamic display of African arts, music, and cuisine in Seattle. This milestone event features cultural performances, workshops, and exhibitions, while also raising awareness for the soon-to-be-launched African Cultural Arts Center. Join us for a day that highlights diverse traditions and creative expressions, marking a major moment in Seattle's cultural scene.

Co-Owner of Pizza By Ruffin, Isaiah Ruffin sits down on The Day With Trae guest host Deontay Damper, to have a conversation on being the first black owned pizzeria in Washington State

Marjorie's globally-inspired, locally-sourced menu is already a hit, with Jamaican jerk chicken, hush puppies, and bread pudding being crowd favorites. Besa raved about the hush puppies, saying, "I don't even like hush puppies, but I loved those." She also praised the restaurant's warm and inviting atmosphere, noting the thoughtful decor and overall ambiance.

Business owner Franchesca Vargas joins The Day with Trae to have a conversation with guest host Deontay Damper, discussing her PR management company Elevate’s mission is to empower and amplify the voices of local businesses, artist, community organizations and black/brown led nonprofits through exceptional PR and event planning services.

Located in Benton City, in the heart of Washington's Red Mountain wine-growing region, a unique winery has been making waves, not just for its exceptional wines but also for its heartwarming story and inviting atmosphere. Frichette Winery, co-owned and operated by the dynamic duo of Shae and Greg Frichette, is a testament to the power of following your dreams, embracing community, and a dash of spontaneity.

Terrain, the region's largest multimedia art and music event, recently celebrated its 15th year, showcasing a vibrant array of artistic expression. Ginger Ewing, Terrain co-founder, shared her insights on Terrain's impact and its significance for the local community.

The Washington State Department of Commerce has made a groundbreaking commitment to addressing systemic inequities and fostering economic empowerment in communities disproportionately affected by the war on drugs. Through a substantial investment of $39.8 million in grants to 19 organizations and institutions, the Community Reinvestment Project (CRP) is set to make a tangible difference in the lives of Washingtonians.

In celebration of its 10th anniversary, the South Seattle Emerald hosted a vibrant community event that highlighted its pivotal role in providing authentic representation and news to the local population. The Emerald has been instrumental in uplifting the voices of South Seattle and addressing the issues that matter most to its residents.

Besa Gordon recently had the opportunity to sit down with Ginger Ewing, the driving force behind Terrain, the Pacific Northwest's premier multimedia arts and music festival, in downtown Spokane.  Ewing has been instrumental in Terrain's growth and success over the past 15 years.

Written by: Besa Gordon - Can you say, new season, new commercial, and this one is with my people from Communion, Re-Sole 206, Jerk Shack Kitchen, and Art Noir. Last month, I posted some BTS photos of me shooting a new commercial for Back2Besa with the FOX 13 Seattle production team at Midtown Square in the Central District, and I can now finally share it with you all.

In today's fast-paced world, men often face unique challenges that can impact their mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Recognizing this need, YOUniversal Fitness has launched its groundbreaking Man Uplift program, a holistic initiative designed to empower men and foster a sense of community.

Besa Gordon gives a behind-the-scenes look at her shoot with FOX 13 Seattle for a new upcoming Back2Besa commercial.

Nestled in the heart of SoDo, SoNu Beauty Bar is a haven of serenity amidst the urban hustle and bustle. Owned by Denise Coleman Drinker, this beauty sanctuary offers a holistic approach to self-care, combining top-tier treatments with a tranquil ambiance.

For the third year, Lewis Rudd, Co-Founder and CEO of Ezell’s Famous Chicken, hosted the Black Business Leadership Conference (BBLC) at the University of Washington. This year's theme, "Ignite and Inspire," brought together black business owners, educators, and resource providers to foster growth and success within the black business community.