The Black Excellence Gala

Troy Ketchmore is the Director of Programs for Ketchmore Kids, Inc.. Gun violence prevention and intervention is one of the main areas of focus for Ketchmore Kids, and Troy is the co-creator of the Think Tank Conflict Resolution Program. Ketchmore Kids uses this program to help participants of all ages truly understand how their thoughts impact their actions, and that disagreements do not have to end with someone being hurt or killed. After serving over 26 years in prison on a wrongful conviction, Troy has been the featured speaker in several spaces dedicated to prison reform, while still fighting for his full exoneration. Troy is also the owner of multiple companies, including Brand Ketchmore Transportation LLC, and embodies the true spirit of a successful entrepreneur, and relevant returning citizen!

A vibrant new successful business owner based out of her hometown of Hampton, Virginia. Michelle's new thriving business, Runway Rules by Michelle Griffin happens to be a progressive and extremely fast forwarding company that was started solely by Michelle from the ground up. Michelle launched her first solo business start up on May 15, 2018, which also happens to be on her birthday.

Fast forward five years and Runway Rules by Michelle Griffin is truly ruling the city of Hampton and surrounding areas. To now include a nonprofit organization named Runway Rules Academy , that focuses on teaching youth life skills, character building, conflict resolution, and confidence boosting with a laser focus on self esteem. Michelle used all of her experiences as a youth to start her own business of teaching her youthful audience all the tricks and trades of being an elite model both on and off the runway. Michelle focuses on helping young girls ages 6-21 become model citizens.

As of 2023, Michelle has the #1 rated youth program in the city of Hampton and her nonprofit organization is making extremely large strides, on her way to being the most recognized organization in the city of Hampton.

Michelle also owns Michelle Griffin Enterprises, a consultant company that assists her clients with business start ups, marketing, and branding.

Michelle is the owner of 29th & Green Bistro, a thriving new restaurant located in Hampton, VA. Michelle is able to provide jobs for the very youth she is mentoring.

Committed to her city and her purpose, Michelle is well on her way to continue to make a difference in this world. The true embodiment of Black Excellence.

Chanell is the Founder and Executive Director of Ketchmore Kids, Inc., a non-profit organization started in 2005, operating in Virginia and North Carolina, and serving youth, teens, young adults, and families. In addition to building the Ketchmore Legacy through community service, Chanell is also the visionary of Honey B Cosmic LLC, a consulting agency that she uses to help individuals all over the world harness their power, and start and/or grow their very own nonprofit organizations. Chanell has been working in the space of helping others for over 20 years, and is always excited to recognize dedicated community leaders during the Black Excellence Gala!