Chicago’s Black leadership ecosystem is stepping into the spotlight in a major way.
The founder of My Block My Hood My City is hosting The Ripple Effect Tour, a powerful live conversation bringing together some of the city’s most influential Black men leaders to share their journeys, their wins, and the responsibility that comes with building real impact in Chicago.
Taking place February 21 at the Harold Washington Cultural Center, the event is designed to spark honest dialogue among Chicago’s business leaders and community builders. The goal is clear: examine the current state of Black Chicago, tell the stories behind real success, and challenge those in the room to move with accountability—not just influence.
The panel features five leaders who have collectively raised over $50 million toward Chicago-based efforts and generated more than 500 million social media views and impressions, proving that community work and cultural reach can coexist at scale. Speakers include Jahmal Cole, also President of J.C. Enterprises; Jamyle Cannon, founder of The Bloc; Dion Dawson, founder of Dion’s Chicago Dream; and Christian Perry, Political Director for Brandon Johnson.
More than a panel, The Ripple Effect Tour is a reminder that leadership is measured not just by personal success, but by how deeply that success reshapes the communities it touches. For Chicago, this conversation couldn’t come at a more important time
