Marjorie, owned and operated by the talented Donna Moodie, has a rich history that dates back to 2003. Donna, who also serves as the Chief Impact Officer at the Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle, poured her heart and soul into creating a space that embodies her mother's love for food and community. 

By Besa Gordon - Yesterday’s Buy Black Brunch was EVERYTHING! A sold-out event, amazing vibes, and so much joy filled Simply Soulful as we celebrated community, connection, and Black-owned businesses. From the cupid shuffle to a mimosa toast, the energy was unmatched.

Can you believe November is over already? This month flew by faster than a hot wing at a cookout! But even with the whirlwind pace, we packed in a ton of amazing experiences on Back2Besa. So, let's take a moment to rewind and relive some of the highlights.

Seattle's creative spirit was on full display at a recent event that underscored the city's commitment to nurturing its creative economy. The MXR:SEA mixer and workshop, held at the Black and Tan Hall in South Seattle, brought together a diverse group of creative entrepreneurs, city officials, and community leaders to celebrate Seattle's creative strengths and chart a course for a dynamic future.

Josephine Howell, a talented vocalist and passionate community advocate, appeared on The Day With Trae to discuss her upcoming projects and her commitment to using music for positive change. Howell shared her enthusiasm for the "Sounds of the Sound 7" event and her involvement in "Black Nativity," highlighting their importance in fostering community and celebrating artistic expression.

Beacon Pacific Village, a new affordable housing development in Seattle's Beacon Hill / International District neighborhood, is more than just a place to live. It's a community development project that aims to serve families in every way possible.

Back in early October, the City of Seattle was buzzing with excitement as we unveiled this incredible new addition to our waterfront and I was there at the Overlook Walk ribbon-cutting ceremony! It's been a long time coming, and I had the privilege of speaking with some of the key players who helped make this project a reality. Let's dive in and hear what they had to say!

Destiny Wimpye, a professional ballet dancer and passionate advocate for social change, joined The Day With Trae to discuss her foundation's work and the importance of Giving Tuesday. Wimpye emphasized her commitment to empowering underserved communities and encouraged viewers to support her foundation's initiatives on this global day of generosity. During the interview, she also shared insights into her journey as a dancer and her vision for creating a more equitable society.

Besa Gordon wants to give you the gift of intentional spending this holiday season, with your shot at winning your own Buy Black Card by Intentionalist. In case you haven’t heard,  the Buy Black Card is a prepaid Mastercard that can be used exclusively at participating Black-owned businesses. It is a way to support the Black community and learn about new Black-owned businesses while also investing in them.

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.

Kimberly Nichole’s journey into rock music was a natural evolution. Early on, while collaborating with a producer who had a strong passion for rock, Nichole was introduced to iconic bands like The Doors, Green Day, and Foo Fighters. Although she had always enjoyed rock, especially being from Seattle, it was during this creative period that her love for the genre truly deepened. The producer also introduced her to blues records, broadening her musical palette.

Reach a Diverse and Engaged Audience: Back2Besa is a platform that celebrates Black excellence and amplifies the voices of the Pacific Northwest's vibrant Black community. By advertising with us, you're reaching a diverse and engaged audience and showing your commitment to supporting and uplifting underrepresented communities. 

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.

By Besa Gordon - Dude, talk about a reunion! If you know me, you know this girl isn't a morning person, but I was NOT going to miss the Urban League's 23rd Annual Breakfast. We're talking a powerful conversation with Taji P. Henson and Hill Harper, PLUS a whole slate of amazing honorees doing big things right here in Seattle. 

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 Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle held their annual breakfast on Friday, November 22nd, at the Seattle Convention Center. Actors and activists Hill Harper and Taraji P. Henson anchored the breakfast with a conversation ranging from social justice to mental health. Photos: Susan Fried

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.

This week on Back2Besa, host Besa Gordon takes you on a journey across the Evergreen State. From the inspiring NAACP Freedom Fund Gala in Spokane to the grand opening of the Beacon Pacific Village Apartments, we celebrate Black excellence and the power of community-driven initiatives.

Elizabeth City State University (ECSU), a historically Black university with a legacy spanning over a century, is not only making higher education affordable but also fostering a nurturing environment where students thrive.

Yesterday, Besa Gordon, the dynamic host of Back2Besa on FOX 13 Seattle, sat down with Erin Mayovsky of Good Day Seattle to offer a sneak peek into this weekend's episode. The focus? The Spokane NAACP Freedom Fund Gala, an event that left a lasting impression on Gordon and attendees alike.