SHREVEPORT, La. — The Greater Shreveport Chamber’s Business Development Connection recognized minority business leaders, entrepreneurs and community organizations during the 2026 Minority Business Opportunity Awards Dinner on June 11 at Sam’s Town Hotel & Casino.
The annual event, presented by Willis Knighton Health, honors individuals and organizations for leadership, innovation, community service and contributions to economic development across the Shreveport-Bossier region.
“The Minority Business Opportunity Awards are a powerful reminder of what makes our business community so special,” Greater Shreveport Chamber Chairman Scott Ward of Southern Components said. “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.”
The chamber presented awards in six categories recognizing achievements in business, nonprofit leadership and community service.
Tia White of JPMorgan Chase was named Top Business Professional of the Year. White was recognized for her work in financial education and community outreach initiatives designed to expand economic opportunity and improve financial literacy throughout the Shreveport-Bossier area.
Badreka Harper of The Arc Caddo-Bossier received the Non-Profit Professional of the Year award. Harper serves as administrative operations manager for the organization and was recognized for her leadership in organizational management, board coordination and program support.
Emerging Business of the Year was awarded to Apotheworx Pharmacy, founded by Dr. Heidi Cram in downtown Shreveport in 2024. The pharmacy was recognized for its personalized healthcare model and contributions to downtown business development.
Antonisha Parish, founder of I’d Wax That Studios, received the Small Business Owner of the Year award. Parish established the business in 2018 and has expanded its client base through specialized esthetic and hair removal services.
Whataburger was named Business of the Year for its community engagement efforts and support of local initiatives focused on education, youth development and food insecurity. Chamber officials cited the company’s partnerships and philanthropic activities throughout Northwest Louisiana as key factors in the recognition.
The Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Shreveport Police Chief Wayne E. Smith for more than four decades of public service. Smith began his career with the Shreveport Police Department in 1980 and was appointed chief in 2022. The chamber recognized his leadership, commitment to public safety and efforts to strengthen relationships between law enforcement and the community.
The Greater Shreveport Chamber said the awards program reflects its ongoing commitment to supporting minority-owned businesses and promoting economic opportunities that contribute to regional growth and development.
