Click on the names below to read more about the business awardees. Click here to view the Community Awardees.
JDC Energy Resource, LLC | DeMarco Wren – Military Veteran (Retired) | JDC is an energy enhancement distribution company. We are a distribution company for the Electrical Energy Enhancement units called Speed Joule. We also provide services for renewable energy and electrical services, residential/commercial, in the El Paso, Texas area. https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=621369299543052
Carlota is the proud owner and lead stylist of Perfect Image Beauty Salon, a trusted El Paso business that has served the community for more than 24 years. For more than two decades, her chair has been a place where beauty, encouragement, laughter, and genuine connection come together. Originally from Panama City, Panama, Carlota immigrated to Brooklyn, New York, in 1976 before relocating to El Paso, Texas, in 1995 in search of greater opportunities for herself and her two children, Vielka Williams and Arturo Williams. Through determination, faith, and an unwavering work ethic, she transformed that dream into a thriving business built on exceptional service, lasting relationships, and a genuine passion for helping others.
A graduate of Wilfred Beauty Academy in Brooklyn, New York, Carlota discovered her passion for cosmetology after watching and working alongside family members who were already established in the beauty industry. She especially credits her sister, Omayra Ford, an accomplished master stylist known for her exceptional braiding, updos, weaves, and creativity, as one of the people who inspired and challenged her to pursue excellence in the beauty profession. What began as a career quickly became a calling when Carlota realized that helping clients look and feel their best was about more than hair—it was about helping people leave with greater confidence and a smile on their face. That philosophy continues to guide her work today.
Since opening Perfect Image Beauty Salon in 2002, Carlota has earned a reputation for her expertise in hair extensions, elegant updos, and her ability to work with a wide variety of hair textures and styles. Known for her personal touch, she has built a loyal clientele that spans generations. Many clients have remained with her throughout the years because they know they will receive more than beautiful hair—they will receive genuine care, encouragement, and a listening ear.
For Carlota, the salon has always been more than a place to style hair. It is a place where people can laugh, share life’s joys and challenges, build lasting relationships, and leave feeling more confident than when they arrived.
One of Carlota’s greatest sources of pride is the team she has built over the years. She is joined by Monica Bustamante, an accomplished nail technician who has been part of Perfect Image Beauty Salon for more than 20 years, and Johanne Edwards, who has been a valued member of the salon team for the past two years. Together, they have created a welcoming environment where clients are treated like family and receive exceptional, personalized care. Carlota believes that investing in the people who work alongside her is just as important as serving the clients who walk through her doors, and she is grateful for the dedication, professionalism, and friendship her team brings to the salon each day.
Carlota credits much of her success to the values instilled by her grandmother, Mavis Wallace, and her aunt, Amelia Acosta, who taught her the importance of hard work, respect, perseverance, and treating every person with kindness. Those values continue to shape both her business and her life.
Beyond the salon, Carlota is deeply committed to serving her community. She has been an active member of The Worship Center in El Paso for more than 15 years, where she faithfully serves as an usher and volunteers with the youth ministry. She also volunteers with the El Pasoans Fighting Hunger Food Bank, supports local charitable organizations, sponsors youth participating in school and community events, donates salon services to individuals and nonprofit organizations, and has mentored numerous cosmetology students and aspiring beauty professionals throughout her career.
Throughout her journey, Carlota has faced challenges—from securing financing as a new business owner to navigating the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic and recovering from an injury that affected the use of her hands. Each obstacle strengthened her faith and reinforced her belief that perseverance, resilience, and trusting in God can overcome even the greatest difficulties.
Today, Carlota considers her greatest accomplishment not simply the longevity of her business, but the joy she still finds in serving others after more than two decades behind the chair. She hopes her legacy will inspire her children, future entrepreneurs, and especially fellow immigrants to believe that the American Dream is attainable through faith, passion, integrity, perseverance, and hard work.
Outside of the salon, Carlota enjoys spending time with her children, Vielka Williams and Arturo Williams, and her beloved granddogs, Jewel Williams and Pop Pop Williams, who always bring joy to her life. Family remains at the heart of everything she does and continues to inspire the legacy she hopes to leave for future generations.
Whether serving behind the chair, mentoring the next generation, supporting her community, or simply offering a kind word to someone who needs it, Carlota believes that true success is measured not only by the business you build, but by the lives you touch along the way.
Her guiding scripture is Philippians 4:13:
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
Watching Eric Boseman play, you’re immediately struck by how effortlessly musical he is; he’s simply one of those players who was born to groove.
Growing up in Anchorage, Alaska, Eric honed his orchestral and jazz chops before going on to study at Berklee College of Music, North Texas State University, and the Musicians Institute. While in Los Angeles, he was active in the R&B, gospel, and jazz scenes, both as a player and producer. It was during his time in Canada that TV and film production found their way into Eric’s bag of tricks.
Although playing and producing remain his first loves, Eric has always had an affinity for education, and he can occasionally be caught teaching workshops on percussion and production.
He is a co-founder of the El Paso International Music Foundation, a nonprofit organization committed to empowering musicians through education, mental and physical health resources, and opportunities to grow and build their careers.
Eric currently serves as Executive Director and Senior Producer at Star City Studios, a state-of-the-art recording studio, art gallery, and venue.
Basketball has always been part of Keenon Cage’s life. A standout at Dallas Lincoln High School, he carried his game with him to UTEP before ACL injuries shifted his path. Rather than let setbacks define him, Keenon used them as fuel; his passion for basketball and dedication to helping young athletes succeed led him to launch Street Cred Sports Training in 2008.
For over two decades, Keenon has been teaching players the skills, discipline, and mindset needed to compete at a high level. His mission is simple: give every athlete the tools to succeed and the belief that hard work creates opportunities both on the court and in life.
Today, Keenon serves as Director of Operations at Street Cred Sports Training, based at 900 Hawkins Blvd in El Paso, where he specializes in basketball skill development, athletic performance, and jump training for student-athletes. He also works with high school and youth basketball players across the El Paso area through athletic recruiting platforms like Field Level, providing player evaluations, skill assessments, and recruiting assistance for both men’s and women’s basketball programs.
A native of El Paso, Cuban De La Fuente graduated from Cathedral High School in 2001. He has served the community for over 20 years as the owner of several automotive shops and nightclubs, building a reputation as a dedicated entrepreneur and community fixture.
About five years ago, Cuban stepped into modeling, and the opportunity opened doors he hadn’t expected. He has walked for major brands including Harley-Davidson and Imperial Legacy, along with shows produced by Laura Productions and F.L.Y. Events Promotions, all while remaining an independent model. Two years ago, that work led him into film, casting for his first speaking role in an upcoming movie; he continues to pursue casting opportunities in fashion shows and the film industry.
Beyond his business ventures and modeling career, Cuban is deeply engaged in community leadership. He serves as a Senior Board Member and Grand Champion of the 144K Collective, a Texas-based philanthropy organization with contributions across the U.S. and internationally. He also currently serves as President of the Inner Club Council of El Paso and President of the Corridor Texas Ruff Ryders chapter.
Known for always lending a hand, Cuban is regularly found assisting, supporting, and volunteering within his community.
Jacqueline is a licensed cosmetologist, beauty professional, educator, military benefits advisor, licensed Life and Health Insurance Agent, and entrepreneur based in El Paso, Texas.
Originally from Colón, Panama, Jackie has built a diverse professional career centered on education, service, beauty, financial wellness, and community empowerment.
For the past several years, she has worked closely with the United States military community as a Benefits Advisor and Instructor, educating active-duty service members, transitioning service members, veterans, retirees, and military families about benefits, programs, and resources available to support their lives beyond military service. Her dedication to those who serve has become one of the most meaningful parts of her professional journey.
Jackie also holds an active Texas Life and Health Insurance license, allowing her to educate individuals and families about life insurance, health coverage, financial protection, and long-term planning. Through this work, she helps others better understand the importance of protecting their income, families, and financial future.
In the beauty industry, Jackie is a licensed cosmetologist and hairstylist at Ulta Beauty, specializing in hair color transformations, blonding, balayage, silk presses, healthy hair care, and personalized beauty consultations. She believes beauty is more than appearance – it is confidence, self-expression, and the opportunity to help someone see themselves in a new light.
She is also the founder of the Jackie Onassis beauty brand, where she shares professional hair education, product recommendations, beauty services, and inspiration while continuing to build her presence as a beauty and wellness entrepreneur.
Beyond beauty and financial education, Jackie is co-developing Medieval Roots a wellness brand inspired by ancient nourishment and modern living, reflecting her passion for entrepreneurship, holistic wellness, and creating meaningful products for today’s lifestyle.
Known for her authenticity, leadership, resilience, and commitment to serving others, Jackie continues to inspire through every role she embraces – from educating military families and promoting financial protection to transforming clients behind the chair.
Receiving the Beauty Professional of the Year Award is a meaningful reflection of her dedication to excellence, service, entrepreneurship, and empowering others to feel confident inside and out.
“Beauty is more than a transformation – it is confidence, purpose, protection, and the courage to become your best self.”
Michelle Emtre Hollis is the Founder and Host of Five Star Conversations in the Sun City, a Borderland-based media and consulting platform that connects healthcare, health, and wellness professionals with the everyday El Pasoan.
Through storytelling, strategic visibility, and relationship-centered conversations, Michelle helps providers, practitioners, and community leaders build trust, grow their networks, and share their expertise in a way that feels human and accessible.
Her mission is to elevate Borderland healthcare voices, support caregiver education, and create meaningful conversations that help people become healthier, more informed, and more connected.
Tephanie Hopper is known for creating positive change in her community. Her journey started as a Soldier and Department of Defense civilian, where she found her passion for service and helping others. Tephanie has made an impact as the Fort Bliss Army Volunteer Corps Manager and as a Diversity and Inclusion Coordinator at Schriever Space Force. She also works as a Human Resources Specialist for USDA-APHIS. In recognition of her outstanding contributions to the field, she was honored as the El Paso Society of Human Resource Managers (EP SHRM) Professional of the Year.
Now, as President-Elect of EP SHRM, a member of the El Paso NAACP, and co-coordinator of DisruptHR El Paso, Tephanie leads efforts to advance the HR profession, foster inclusivity, and drive meaningful change across the community. She brings her entrepreneurial spirit to Colorful Chapters Bookstore, encouraging curiosity and supporting literacy in her community.
In her free time, she enjoys exploring scenic trails, reading, and seeking new adventures, always inspiring those around her with her dedication to uplifting others.
Karyn Obey was born and raised in Staten Island, New York, the youngest of three girls to Arnold and Cheryl Obey. She graduated from Susan E. Wagner High School in 1995 and went on to attend the University of Miami, where she became a member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, in the fall of 1997. Karyn graduated from the University of Miami in 1999 with a Bachelor of Science in Communications.
She enlisted in the Army in July 2001 and was promoted to the rank of Warrant Officer One in 2009, deploying to Afghanistan three times over the course of her career. In 2012, Karyn earned a Master of Public Administration from Bowie State University. She went on to serve 23 years of active duty in the Army, retiring in 2024 as a Chief Warrant Officer Four. Along the way, she was stationed in Washington State, North Carolina, Wisconsin, Texas, South Korea, Germany, and the Netherlands.
Karyn has one child, Christopher Harris, a recent graduate of North Dakota State University. Arnold’s Pastrami Food Truck stands as a tribute to her father, Arnold Obey, who passed away in 2020.
Charles “Elmo” Smith Jr. spent more than two decades in the Army before he ever picked up a wrench for a living. Born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia, Elmo built a career on discipline and precision long before his military orders brought him and his family to El Paso in 2018, when he was stationed at Fort Bliss. He retired from active duty on November 1, 2024, closing one chapter and, within the year, opening another.
In September 2025, Elmo launched Elmo’s Auto Tech, a mobile mechanic service built on a simple promise: quality work, a fair price, and a customer back on the road as fast as possible. The idea wasn’t new to him. It was the same standard he’d held to in uniform, applied now to brake jobs and diagnostics instead of missions and orders. What drives him isn’t just the mechanical work itself, but the chance to serve the community that welcomed his family when the Army sent them here.
Less than a year in, Elmo’s Auto Tech has already built a base of repeat customers, the kind of word-of-mouth growth that comes from showing up and doing the job right every time. There’s no shortcut behind that kind of trust; it’s earned one repair at a time.
Charles Sweed Jr. is the Founder and CEO of CHÄrlz DEux LLC, a bold, unapologetic creative house specializing in custom sportswear and high-impact branding. He designs and produces custom apparel for cheer teams, dance studios, sports programs, and business clients, offering a true one-stop shop for uniforms, practice wear, merchandise, and professional attire. Now entering his sixth year in business, Charles has built CHÄrlz DEux LLC through dedication, innovation, and a commitment to delivering standout looks that feel premium, intentional, and unforgettable. With over 10 years of industry experience, including hands-on work in creative direction, garment construction, and brand identity, he has earned a reputation for craftsmanship, creativity, and excellence.
After thirteen years away, Charles returned home to El Paso with a renewed mission: to show that the city can show out just as fiercely as any major market. He believes El Paso’s sports programs, businesses, and creatives deserve to be seen, celebrated, and financially competitive, and he’s committed to proving that excellence, and opportunity, live here too.
Charles is also honored to be part of Black Excellence El Paso, under the leadership of Monica Tucker, contributing to a movement that uplifts the community, amplifies its voices, and builds a legacy of visibility, unity, and pride, not only within the Black community but for the city of El Paso as a whole.
He currently serves as Creative Director for the El Paso Black Hall of Fame.
Originally from Virginia and now a proud military spouse rooted in Texas, Chrishelle Waldo has never settled for ordinary. She holds an MBA (2019) and has built a career that spans corporate strategy, professional modeling, and fiber artistry, each lane an extension of a woman who shows up fully, unapologetically, and on her own terms.
Living with chronic illness, Chrishelle understands firsthand that the body is not a fixed thing; it shifts, challenges, and sometimes surprises you. Rather than retreat, she has turned that reality into her platform. Through her work as a print and runway model, she champions strength, confidence, and determination for every size and every circumstance. Her presence in nearly 100 magazine publications is a testament not to luck, but to relentless work and a vision that refuses to shrink.
This year, that vision earned recognition: Chrishelle was selected as the 2026 F.L.Y. Legacy Model by F.L.Y. Events Promotions.
Bold. Classy. Intelligent. Confident. Sexy.
Different, and every bit of it intentional.
Pink Redolence
At nine years old, under her grandmother’s patient hands, Chrishelle learned to crochet. What started as a comforting childhood hobby became a lifeline through her health journey, and eventually, a full creative brand: Pink Redolence, home to vibrant, functional crochet art, from cozy blankets to stylish wearables and unique accessories.
Chrishelle is inspired by vibrant colors, rich textures, and the power of handmade artistry. Every piece is thoughtfully designed to be both beautiful and functional, made to last and meant to be cherished, so that anyone who wears or uses a piece from Pink Redolence feels the care behind every stitch. Beyond creating, Chrishelle’s mission is to inspire, serving as a resource for well-being, creativity, and learning through the art of crochet, and sharing her craft with anyone looking to learn something new.
Pink Redolence was also selected as the 2026 Annual Juneteenth Fashion Show Segment, where Chrishelle modeled her own handcrafted crocheted designs on the runway.
Her goals in this industry are clear: continued growth as a print model, an expanding runway presence, and a deepening footprint in fashion, fitness, lifestyle, and promotional work, all while inspiring the next woman to walk into her own story with confidence.