July 8th marked the Black Mall’s first Gala whose purpose was to honor the top Black Businesses in Chicago. The event was hosted at the Africa International House located at 6200 South Drexel. The Black Mall serves as a gateway to Black Businesses. When discussing supporting Black Businesses I always hear where do you go to find them, I don’t know where they are and things of that nature.Well look no further than the Black Mall for your needs! Many ask why is there the need for a Black Mall? There are a number of answers to that question but the simplest answer I can give you is that Black businesses face a number of challenges that other businesses do not so therein lies the need for organizations like the Black Mall.  The Gala was a great opportunity to thank and showcase many of the hardworking Black Owned businesses in Chicago.  Quite often business owners do not hear the words thank you so being honored by their peers can be music to their ears. Cassiopeia Uhuru is the fire behind the Black Mall along with her wonderful team.  One of the great things about her team is that she employs a lot of younger people & interns which gives them an opportunity to gain valuable work experience. If you are not familiar with the Black Mall be sure to visit their site http://theblackmall.com/ as well as their Facebook page. https://www.facebook.com/TheBlackMall/?fref=ts