The Greater Shreveport Chamber’s Business Development Connection recognized some of Northwest Louisiana’s most influential business and community leaders Thursday night during the 2026 Minority Business Opportunity Awards Dinner, presented by Willis Knighton Health.
Held at Sam’s Town Hotel & Casino, the annual event celebrated entrepreneurs, professionals, nonprofit leaders and organizations whose work continues to strengthen the region’s economy and create opportunities throughout the community.
The awards program honors individuals and businesses that demonstrate leadership, innovation and service while contributing to the economic and cultural growth of the Shreveport-Bossier area. Throughout the evening, attendees gathered to recognize those whose accomplishments have helped shape the local business landscape and inspire future generations of leaders.
“The Minority Business Opportunity Awards are a powerful reminder of what makes our business community so special,” said Greater Shreveport Chamber Chairman Scott Ward of Southern Components. “Each year, we have the privilege of honoring individuals whose hard work, perseverance, and heart leave a lasting impact on our region. Our 2026 honorees are not only successful business leaders, but they are also mentors, innovators, and community builders who inspire others through the opportunities they create and the lives they touch throughout Northwest Louisiana.”
Top Business Professional of the Year
Among the night’s honorees was Tia White of JP Morgan Chase, who received the Top Business Professional of the Year award. White was recognized for her efforts to expand economic opportunity through financial education initiatives across the Shreveport-Bossier area. In her role with the financial institution, she partners with local organizations to provide community-focused programs aimed at improving long-term financial stability and helping close the wealth gap.
Nonprofit Professional of the Year
The Nonprofit Professional of the Year award was presented to Badreka Harper of The Arc Caddo-Bossier. Harper serves as administrative operations manager for the organization, which provides services and opportunities for people with disabilities. Since joining the nonprofit sector in 2022 after a career in broadcast media management, she has helped lead administrative operations, board coordination and major organizational initiatives.
Emerging Business of the Year
Apotheworx Pharmacy was named Emerging Business of the Year. Founded in 2024 by Dr. Heidi Cram, the downtown Shreveport pharmacy was recognized for its personalized approach to patient care and its role in supporting downtown revitalization efforts. Cram, a pharmacist with more than a decade of leadership experience, launched the concierge-style pharmacy to provide an alternative to traditional retail pharmacy services.
Small Business Owner of the Year
Antonisha Parish, founder of I’d Wax That Studios, earned the Small Business Owner of the Year award. Since opening the business in 2018, Parish has built a reputation for providing professional esthetic services while emphasizing education, precision and client care. The business serves a diverse customer base and focuses on creating a welcoming environment for clients.
Business of the Year
The evening’s Business of the Year award went to Whataburger, which was recognized for its ongoing commitment to community engagement and philanthropy across Northwest Louisiana. Chamber leaders cited the company’s support of educational initiatives, youth development programs and efforts to address food insecurity, as well as its partnerships with local organizations.
Lifetime Achievement Award
One of the night’s most significant honors was the presentation of the Lifetime Achievement Award to Shreveport Police Chief Wayne E. Smith. Smith has served with the Shreveport Police Department for more than four decades, beginning his career in 1980 before being appointed chief in 2022.
Throughout his career, Smith has been recognized for his commitment to public safety, community engagement and mentorship within the department. Chamber officials highlighted his efforts to strengthen relationships between law enforcement and residents while helping guide future generations of officers.
The Greater Shreveport Chamber and its Business Development Connection said they remain committed to supporting minority-owned businesses and advancing economic opportunities that contribute to a stronger regional economy.
