Who’s Who In Black, powered by Real Times Media, parent company of Michigan Chronicle, honored and celebrated the best and brightest at DRIVENX. The event is a tribute to African American achievement in the automotive industry. It all took place Wednesday evening at the Garden Theater in Detroit, just as the world begins to descend onto the city for the North American International Auto Show.
“As someone who values the power of recognition and the importance of sharing the incredible work of others, I am honored that DRIVEN has a role in paying tribute to all these legendary leaders,” said Hiram E. Jackson, CEO of Real Times Media.
The media powerhouse not only presented a event driven celebration but also its annual book DRIVEN publications which chronicles and features the stories of African-Americans making a difference.
“The individuals featured in the publications are more than just talented trailblazers, history-makers, and living legacies of perseverance and triumph,” Jackson said. “As we explore the inspiring stories and achievements chronicled, I am certain that you too will be moved by the passion, determination, and sheer brilliance that they embody. These men and women are simply the epitome of Black excellence.”
The first award of the night honored Sylvester Hester, President & CEO of LM Manufacturing, LLC., he received the Vanguard Award reserved for those who are not only successful but serve as beacons of hope, lighting the path for others.
Hester has a robust 35-year journey that began at General Motors which ultimately lead to him establishing LM Manufacturing in collaboration with Magna International.
“This award means everything because I understand where this organization comes from,” Hester said. “I understand who’s behind it, I understand the spirit and intent to celebrate those of us. I’m with some amazing leaders tonight on this stage with me to received awards so I’m very very honored.”
“They know the struggle, they know the commitment to our employees, they know the commitment to our community and they take an opportunity in this rough and tumble automotive industry, it’s demanding …but for the measures of success that GOD gives us, to have a night where they just celebrate us, it means everything.”
The night also honored Randy Parker, CEO of Hyundai Motor America, accepting the Trailblazer Award. He is the first African American to lead a major automotive manufacturer. While once envisioning himself working in the halls of the CIA or FBI, fate would have other plans when he handed his resume to a GM representative during a college fair which would lead to a three-decade journey. Now, at Hyundai, his prestigious role is blazing trails for a generation of future leaders.
The night also honored John A. James, with a Lifetime Achievement Award, a champion in academia and the military, his success in business led him to become the first African American in Michigan with lucrative power in transporting automotive goods, taking his cause to the highest court in the land.
“This feels absolutely great,” James says. “To be given an honor by your colleagues, I think that’s fantastic and what add to the jubilation here is that I enjoy what I’m doing.”
The evening also celebrated Greg Jackson, Founder and CEO of Prestige Automotive with a Special Tribute. From selling newspapers to become CEO of one of the country’s leading auto sales conglomerates.
DRIVENX was hosted by American television journalist Ed Gordon and supported by General Motors as title sponsor.
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