Champagne Reign Brings Black Entrepreneurs, Creatives, and Leaders Together in Washington, D.C.

Photo Creds: @sydwellsociety.jpeg

One engaging fact about me is that I genuinely love being in spaces where Black excellence isn’t just celebrated—it’s intentionally cultivated. As both an educator and journalist, I enjoy witnessing people connect, build, and create opportunities that extend far beyond a single event. That is exactly why covering Champagne Reign felt special.

For the past several years, I have watched my guy Donovan Woodberry, better known as Mr. Always Wearing A Fly Suit, use his creativity and vision to create meaningful spaces where Black professionals, entrepreneurs, and creatives can thrive.

Every event carries intention, and Champagne Reign was no different. The inaugural Champagne Reign took place on Sunday, June 28, 2026, at Realm Rooftop Bar & Lounge. The sold-out gathering brought together hundreds of Black entrepreneurs, creatives, and community leaders around a simple but powerful belief: the resources our community needs already exist among us—we simply have to place them into each other’s hands.

Photo Creds: @sydwellsociety.jpeg

The afternoon featured the ECHO Pulse Pitch Competition, where Washington, D.C.-based founders Keith Chaney (Peadbo), Dr. Donnisha Davis (FlixMate), and Phifer Turner (GoalExecution) presented their ventures before a panel of distinguished judges. Chaney earned the competition’s top honor, while Davis reflected that “the prize was indeed the room,” highlighting the value of the relationships and opportunities created through the experience.

Photo Creds: @jerryckjacobphotography

Building Community Through Connection

Beyond entrepreneurship, the “State of Us” panel challenged attendees to think critically about Black America’s future through conversations centered on economic empowerment, civic engagement, and intentional community building. Panelists included Constance Carter, former Tennessee State Senator Katrina Robinson, and Stephon Braithwaite Martin, with moderation by Fahn Darkor.

Hosted by Diamond Heeralall and soundtracked by DJ Jus Jamz and DJ Davy J The Virgo, the rooftop experience evolved into more than a networking event—it became a celebration of culture, collaboration, and collective progress.

Photo Creds: @jerryckjacobphotography

Community leaders echoed that sentiment, with many describing Champagne Reign as the beginning of what could become a new Washington tradition. Supported by organizations including The Stacie Selise Group, Broccoli City, Black Menswear, The Black Excellence Society, and Win With Black Men, the event embodied its message: “We built the table. Now we toast at it.” As Donovan shared, “Sunday was only the beginning.”

After spending the afternoon there myself, I’d have to agree. Champagne Reign wasn’t simply another event on the calendar—it was a reminder of what’s possible when Black excellence intentionally creates space for more Black excellence.