The 21Ninety Awards celebrate women who build, lead, and reimagine what is possible. Those making waves in the world of business know entrepreneurship is a combination of cultural vision backed by grit and the daily work of turning ideas into impact.

This year’s Entrepreneur of the Year award recognizes three women whose businesses center Black women while setting a higher bar for excellence. From beauty to community wealth building to custom jewelry artistry, these honorees prove that purpose and profit can grow together.

First Place Winner: Tawana Morris, Hair So Chic LA

Tawana Morris launched Hair So Chic LA in 2020 and quickly grew it into a thriving beauty brand known for quality hair extensions and an elevated customer experience.

“Hair So Chic is for the luxe girly girl who does not mind spending an extra penny on luxury knowing she is going to get something quality,” she told 21Ninety.

A longtime fashion lover turned beauty founder, Morris scaled her company with intention. She learned inventory and money management from her first business, a clothing boutique, named House of Chic. Morris brought that discipline into her second act.

“My business is doing great. Every year I have grown more and more. It is definitely a six figure business,” she shared.

As a part of expanding Hair So Chic beyond extensions, Morris planned to open a brick-and-mortar salon space. But in the midst of building out her salon she made a strategic pivot. She instead chose to make the space a private content studio that supports e-commerce growth.

“I had to listen to my heart and the business. This setup is what feels right and lets me serve my customers best,” she explained.

Next up, she is expanding into product development with shampoos, conditioners, and hair oils, and researching solutions for natural hair. Morris admitted sometimes she forgets to take a moment and reflect on just how far she has come in business. But she says she is proud of herself and the work she has done. Being named 21Ninety’s Entrepreneur of the Year just further reminds Morris of the impact she has.

“I am honored to be seen. I pour a lot into my business so women feel delighted when they open a Hair So Chic package. Being recognized means a lot.”

Second Place Winner: Dr. Key Hallmon, Our Village United

Dr. Lakeysha “Dr. Key” Hallmon is a mission-forward visionary, author, and social entrepreneur who designs real economic vehicles for Black businesses. Since launching The Village Market in 2016, she has served more than 1,440 businesses, facilitated $8.8 million in direct sales for Black-owned enterprises, and delivered $800,000 in grants through Our Village United. Her “Village Model” blends retail activation, technical assistance, mentorship, and capital access so founders can scale with community at the center.

With The Village Retail, Dr. Key created a flagship storefront that elevates Black brands, moving makers from pop-ups to permanent shelves. Her partnerships span Mastercard, Rockefeller Foundation, Target, and Walmart, and she is a sought-after speaker featured by Forbes, Essence, CNN/HLN, and more. She serves on boards and civic councils in Atlanta and continues to push for equitable growth and affordable housing.

Third Place Winner: Dr. Mel Jones and Ariel Jones, Melz Grillz

Melz Grillz brings dentistry, craftsmanship, and culture together through custom grillz and fine jewelry. The mother-daughter team pairs clinical precision with design vision to honor a tradition that belongs to our community.

“We are truly honored and deeply humbled to be recognized for such a prestigious award,” Dr. Mel Jones said.

Jones’ daughter, Ariel explained that the duo has been on a long journey with many triumphs and disappointments. Despite any hardships, they have never given up.

“This recognition is confirmation that our prayers are being answered and our brand is growing into what we always dreamt. The impact is taking notice, and we are excited for the projects ahead,” Ariel said.

Their why is rooted in representation.

“Our community has always been monetized by outsiders,” Ariel explaind. “It was time to change the narrative of what jewelers and grillz designers look like. It is our swag, so we should produce the products.”

The vision is only getting bigger.

“We are just getting started,” says Dr. Mel. “We plan to take our brand international.”e.

About the Awards

For many, entrepreneurship is a promise to build with community in mind in ways that widen opportunity. Tawana Morris, Dr. Key Hallmon, and the Melz Grillz team show how vision becomes velocity when culture leads strategy. Their wins are a signal to every founder watching. Your work matters. Keep going.

This year’s 21Ninety Awards shifted from product-based categories to people-focused recognition. Instead of highlighting only what we use, the awards celebrate the women shaping beauty, wellness, and lifestyle culture from within.

Winners were selected for their impact on their audiences, their ability to create space and community, and their dedication to representation. We also looked at innovation, consistency, and cultural influence. Above all, nominees had to reflect 21Ninety’s mission of empowering Black women through beauty, wellness, and lifestyle. This approach ensures that changemakers, community builders, and unsung heroes get the spotlight for the impact they make every day.