By Leroy Adams

Miami's sun-drenched skies and warm ocean breeze set the perfect stage for a gathering of Black men with success in their minds and brotherhood in their hearts. Over the past year, Black Executive Men (BEM)—a membership network created for corporate Black men to gain authentic friendships, meaningful connections, and career support—has exploded onto the social and, more intentionally, business scene. With a series of social and networking events across the United States in cities like Los Angeles, Oakland, Nashville, Raleigh, and Atlanta, even extending its influence to Black men in London, the community has become a sought-after experience for Black men looking to expand their networks, build partnerships, and advance their careers in finance, private equity, and investment banking.

What makes BEM so attractive is their unapologetic commitment to centering the experiences and voices of Black men who want to increase their influence in business, own their narratives, and grow their community impact. Their events are lavish—because that’s what hardworking Black men deserve.

Black Executive Men Washington D.C. Social

I was invited to attend their Miami event, which continued the spirit I had experienced at the San Antonio gathering hosted at the Black-owned CovesaElevate. In San Antonio, I witnessed knowledge-sharing and brotherhood in action. But in Miami, I saw the vision fully realized—lavish and intentional, set against swaying palm trees, a skin-soothing breeze, and the mouthwatering aroma of tomahawk steaks sizzling over an open fire.

The Touchdown Lunch at Boatyard

The Boatyard
I arrived at *The Boatyard*, where some early arrivals had gathered to break bread, share a few cocktails, and meet the community of men they had heard so much about. Sitting around a row of waterfront tables with a line of yachts—because it’s Miami, after all—in the canal behind them, the men from different generations—seasoned veterans and eager young professionals—sat side by side, trading insights on everything from deal flow to personal resilience. Some spoke of valuing multi-million-dollar companies or navigating high-stakes lawsuits; others shared their aspirations to scale businesses and find mentorship.
I was curious why this group in front of me came together so naturally. Typically, there’s a wall of defense many of us have to work around to connect with our fellow brothers—a reflexive response to being socialized to fear what we see in the mirror. Over time, those walls have and continue to fall. With BEM, we see the benefits of their collapse.
When I asked the men why they felt so comfortable being open and vulnerable, they emphasized the importance of having someone who truly understands your experience. “*BEM in general, and this event in particular, have been great for me because having someone who understands your context is beautiful and necessary,*” shared Sam Kelly, a millennial investor and Managing Director of Solomon Gideon Capital, between sips of the bubbly prosecco in his Sandbar Spritz, one of the signature cocktails of our host venue. “*There are many hurdles and not always a guide for us [Black men] in these unique career paths. I’m looking forward to how this network helps me grow personally and professionally.”*

Sam’s words perfectly encapsulate why I view BEM as more than just a networking organization. Networking is transactional, often focused on individual gains like sharing information or advancing professionally. BEM, however, is transformational. It’s a space where shared interests, values, and needs are acknowledged and nurtured—where collective strength uplifts everyone involved. It’s the difference between exchanging business cards and intentionally building a foundation for generational progress.

As I listened to the conversations around me, the bubbly cocktails fizzing to the top of their glasses symbolized the buoyancy and energy of the gathering. However, soft, breezy winds carried the weight of their shared concerns around the table: “Black men represent only 5% of senior-level positions.” Heads nodded in quiet agreement as those words flowed around the table, each man intimately aware of the work ahead.

Challenges Facing Black Men in Private Equity

Private equity remains one of the least diverse fields in finance. While corporate America has made strides in promoting ethnic diversity, private equity continues to lag, particularly in senior roles. According to a McKinsey study, Black professionals are well-represented in entry-level roles but rarely make it to the decision-making ranks. Many firms boast “diverse” teams, but this diversity often exists in non-investment roles, leaving critical deal teams homogeneously white and male.

This disparity has far-reaching consequences. When Black men are prevented from advancing within these structures, the industry loses its unique perspectives in high-stakes deals and boardrooms. Organizations like the National Association of Investment Companies (NAIC) are stepping up to address these gaps, advocating for minority-owned firms and working to create opportunities for Black, Brown, and Asian professionals. Harland Abraham, NAIC’s Vice President of Development, consistently underscored the organization’s mission: “We’re not asking for a handout; we’re demanding a fair shake.”

Building More Than Wealth

As the prosecco lost its sparkle and the day began to settle into evening, the conversations deepened, touching on topics like marriage, family, and mental health—subjects that transcend generations.

BEM fosters intergenerational growth by bridging the aspirations of young investors like Sam, eager to make their mark in private equity, with the wisdom of seasoned professionals like Harland, who offer a blueprint for holistic success. This exchange of experiences ensures that both generations learn, build, and grow together.

For example, when the topic shifted to personal relationships, Marvin Best, a 20-something investor who works in Life Science Buy-Side Mergers and Acquisitions, expressed his hesitation to marry, fearing it might hinder his career. An older gentleman offered a different perspective, informed by his decades-long marriage. “You’re not wrong to feel that way,” he said, facing Marvin. “I did when I was just starting my career. But after I got married, I realized that a strong partnership could be a source of stability and growth rather than a constraint. It’s not about balance,” he explained to the young audience. “It’s about integration.”

As the older men shared insights on building strong partnerships, Jewel Love, founder and CEO of BEM, extended the conversation to the importance of mental health. He described his journey with therapy as 'life-changing' and a practice “more Black men can integrate into their healthcare.”

These exchanges—rich with wisdom and vulnerability—underscored the unique energy of BEM, where generational knowledge meets fresh ambition, and every conversation strengthens the bonds of a growing community. As the sun dipped lower, the men prepared to gather once more, this time for an unforgettable dinner.

The Dinner

Jewel Love, co-founder of BEM, and Harland Abraham greet each other at dinner. Photo by: @kvonfoto

I stood in the backyard of a stunning Miami townhouse with palm trees swaying gently in the breeze while watching the production unfold. Chef Jay was at the center of the evening’s preparation. He is a culinary artist known for his presentation flair and bold and unforgettable flavors. It was said that Chef Jay doesn’t cook—he curates an experience. On the covered patio, surrounded by lush greenery, I watched his team as they worked with quiet precision. The bartender, dressed in all black with a Chef Jay-branded polo, sliced fresh lemons and meticulously arranged his collection of whiskeys around the high-top bar. He was preparing the night’s signature cocktail: a whiskey sour. From the deliberate curation of flavors to the choice of venue, every detail of the evening was intentional. My admiration for the setup was validated as the bartender explained why the whiskey sour had been selected.

“The whiskey sour was chosen for its balance of sweet and warm flavors—perfectly reflecting the breezy warmth of our host city,” he said. “The tangy citrus cuts through the creaminess of the evening’s featured cigar, while the whiskey's smoky depth complements the undertones of the Dominican Romeo y Julieta Short Churchill. Together, the pairing embodies the elegance and sophistication of a Miami evening.”

The smoky aroma of tomahawk steaks grilling over an open flame pulled me from the bar to the outdoor kitchen. Chef Jay’s assistant was effortlessly flipping four massive tomahawk steaks over the fire. Donning black, gold-trimmed sunglasses, his precision and flair captivated everyone passing by. The sizzling sound of the meat and the crackling flames set the perfect prelude to what was to come.

I reluctantly pulled myself away from the mesmerizing show (and the irresistible aroma) and entered the house, where I found Chef Jay in action. He had already transformed the kitchen into a vibrant oasis. Bright yellow chafing dishes emitted streams of steam, while cobalt-blue blocks displayed an inviting array of breads, green grapes, ruby-red strawberries, and fresh, winding greenery dotted with blooming sunflowers. A cascading waterfall tumbled gracefully through the leaves to complete the look, adding movement and life to the serving station. The aesthetic was fresh, fun, and imaginative, blurring the line between fine dining and art.

Chef Jay’s setup blurred the lines between fine dining and performance art. The arrangement and decor matched the energy of Jewel’s comments to the group, “We're holding back no expense to make this event memorable for you all.”

A Toast to Brotherhood and Growth

I entered the greeting room, where the men were gathering for a meet and greet and to continue conversations from The Boatyard. Each had come dressed for the occasion in a sea of suits that seemed to mirror the evening sky and the vibrancy of Miami itself. Sky-blue blazers, deep burgundy ensembles, and beige blazers with gold accents created a symphony of style. Some sported pink bow ties; others, sleek gold ties. Compliments flowed effortlessly, each exchange laced with a signature coolness only Black men can deliver:

“My brother, your suit is bad, and you’re looking great! I’m glad you’re here.”

As a writer, it took effort to avoid getting caught up in documenting the scene. Everywhere I turned, stories seemed to unfold organically. But I managed to pull myself from “writer mode” long enough to observe. Beneath the high ceilings, conversations about investment strategies, ad tech, family, market capital, and fund allocations echoed across the room. Small groups formed naturally as more men arrived, each quickly immersed in the curated experiences around them—sipping on whiskey sours, admiring Chef Jay’s artful displays, or stepping outside for photos by the pool under the setting sun.

This moment was unlike anything I’d experienced before. I was surrounded by Black men who were not just talking about building wealth but actively raising multi-million-dollar funds in industries like healthcare, tech, and oil and gas. Information flowed freely, unhindered by ego or any sense of scarcity—a refreshing and powerful atmosphere.

I conversed with Harland Abraham, Vice President of Development at the National Association of Investment Companies (NAIC), the largest industry association for diverse-owned alternative investment firms. Dressed in a tan suit sharp enough to rival Obama’s, Harland stood confidently, his peppered hair and beard perfectly groomed. His tone carried authority and warmth as he spoke, inviting younger professionals into the conversation.

"It’s not just who you know—it’s who they know," Harland explained. "And it’s about how they can connect you to opportunities." He shared a real-life example, recounting a recent interaction with an ambitious young investor.

"Who are you? What do you do? And how did you get to me?"

The young investor had answered, "Jewel sent me."

"Okay," Harland replied. "You’re one step closer." Then, the critical follow-up:

"What year is your fund in?"

The young man responded, "Year 1." Harland turned to the group with a knowing smile. "Alright, here’s where I take a step back. You’re in Fund 1? Call me when you’re in Year 3."

His point was clear: while knowing the right people might get you in the room, you have to know where you’re at, what you need, and why you need it. Through his words—and even hand gestures to illustrate the concept—Harland gave the group an insider’s view of how business and opportunities work behind the scenes in Private Equity.

Nearby, another group had gathered around Wayne Dawson, CEO of VIP Transformative Living LLC, whose mission is to help Black men achieve fulfilling and significant career and life goals, free from the stress and trauma often tied to race. Towering over the group in a sharp three-piece blue suit accented with a gold and blue tie, Wayne exuded confidence. His pearly white teeth gleamed as he spoke with a commanding yet warm presence. His voice, rich with a strong Caribbean accent, carried the joy and passion of a man who genuinely loves coaching and empowering Black men.

Wayne spoke about family as his superpower, reminding those in his circle of the strength found in unity and mutual support among Black men. Gesturing to the gathering around us, he highlighted the proof of that strength—the value of creating spaces that allow Black men to stand tall, collaborate, and shape a brighter future together.

Wayne Dawson speaks with Marvin Best, Photo by: @kvonfoto

In that moment, I was struck by a profound contrast: the haunting image of George Floyd with a knee on his neck—a devastating symbol of a system that strips Black men of their potential—juxtaposed with the scene before me. Here stood a room of Black men in tailored suits, standing upright, sharing knowledge, discussing multi-million-dollar funds, and leveraging their wealth to uplift their communities and empower the next generation.

The conversations—charged with ambition, collaboration, and an undeniable energy of excellence—were just beginning to flow when the smell of sizzling tomahawk steaks wafted into the main room. With it, Chef Jay's soft, inviting call signaled that it was time to transition from dialogue to dinner.

Expanding BEM’s Vision

Chef Jay soon gathered the men around the serving station to reveal his culinary masterpiece. Beneath the hoods of the bright yellow chafing dishes was a feast fit for the kings in the room: succulent cuts of tomahawk steak, golden corn on the cob, creamy mashed potatoes adorned with green garnishes, sautéed asparagus, thick and cheesy mac and cheese with a perfectly charred crust, tender jerk chicken, flawlessly fried shrimp, and beautifully baked lobster tails crusted with seasoning. The aroma was intoxicating, and the presentation was nothing short of stunning. The room erupted in applause, a well-deserved ovation for a chef who had turned dinner into an experience. Plates in hand, the group moved to linen-covered tables adorned with gold place settings and matching cutlery, a setup befitting the elegance of the evening.

Between bites, the men introduced themselves to those they hadn’t met, discussing their current projects and future ambitions. One by one, the men spoke of the funds they managed and the opportunities they saw to scale and collaborate. Many shared stories of social impact, explaining how they were leveraging business and capital to address systemic and social issues in underserved communities, such as tackling food deserts. It was at this moment I first heard about BEM’s global vision. While the stories of domestic social impact—such as leveraging funds to address food deserts in underserved communities—were inspiring, as someone who has traveled to over 30 countries and lived in China and Ethiopia, the international opportunities truly grabbed my attention.

I listened as men at my table discussed their logistic startups in countries like Senegal and investing in African founders in Nigeria. Their stories painted a vivid picture of the growing potential for Black investors to not only thrive domestically but to create meaningful impact internationally, providing a perfect backdrop to the early success of BEM’s first international chapter in London, where Black men were tackling similar challenges in private equity and finance.

BEM in London

Led by regional leader Bassey Duke, BEM has successfully hosted several social events in London, each drawing a larger crowd than the last. If I may speak freely, it’s inspiring to witness what Black men connecting across borders can do for our collective potential. The early success of BEM’s London chapter illustrates the power of connection and collaboration across borders, showing that the organization’s mission resonates far beyond the U.S.

This success underscores a critical need: the systemic barriers Black men face in private equity and finance are not unique to the U.S.; they are just as prevalent in the U.K. Black talent remains strikingly underrepresented, comprising only about 1% of senior positions despite making up a significant portion of London’s population. Out of London’s top investment banks, only a few have Black senior executives. Black founders in the U.K. receive just 0.24% of venture capital funding, a glaring statistic that reinforces the importance of networks like BEM.

In my conversation with Shawn Ford, the founder and Managing Director of Vibranium Bridge, a London-based investment firm, I learned about these challenges and the current state of Black investors in the U.K. According to Shawn, Black professionals who enter the industry are exceptionally talented and highly respected, but the challenge lies in creating greater awareness and access to these opportunities.

BEM can potentially address this gap by building pipelines for Black talent and fostering professional growth. Shawn highlighted the importance of raising awareness by targeting Black and African societies at top U.K. universities such as Oxford, Cambridge, and Imperial College. These spaces are filled with highly capable individuals who, with the proper exposure and mentorship, could thrive in private equity and finance. Engaging with these communities directly would not only increase representation but also help “move the needle” on the industry’s glaring underrepresentation of Black professionals.

In addition to advancing professionals, BEM can amplify its impact by supporting Black founders. With just 0.24% of venture funding in the U.K. going to Black-led startups, organizations like Founder Vine are making strides by connecting Black entrepreneurs with capital and resources. Shawn suggested that BEM collaborate with such initiatives, leveraging its extensive network to provide mentorship, sponsorships, and partnerships. By aligning with existing organizations and expanding its reach, BEM could help accelerate the growth of Black founders and investors in domestic and international markets.

That same power of collaboration and shared purpose was felt in Miami at the dinner, as men gathered late into the evening for a cigar ceremony and a collection of toasts—each one a celebration of the present and a vision for the future.

Closing the Night

As the evening drew near, the men gathered around a high-top table near the pool for a cigar ceremony. The Dominicans in their hands glowed softly as the men leaned back, blowing whiskey-scented smoke into the Miami night sky. Their laughter and the warm breeze created an ambiance that felt equal parts celebration and reflection. Behind me, I overheard Jay Holmes, BEM co-founder, and F500 Cloud Infrastructure & AI Advisor, sharing the organization’s ambitious ideas for growth: touring 500 companies, visiting HBCUs, creating educational opportunities, and putting more capital into the hands of Black professionals.

Khristopher Goins lights his cigar, Photo by: @kvonfoto

Nearby, I spoke with Khristopher Goins, a Strategic Executive Leader and member of BEM Elite, who summed up why BEM matters so much. "It’s events like this that remind us we’re not alone. We have ideas, knowledge, and drive. It’s about fellowship—sharing information, growing together, and refusing to limit ourselves."

Curious, I asked Khristopher if Black men's opportunity challenges in the Private Equity and Investment Banking sectors are rooted in scarcity or something else. Exhaling a cloud of smoke that lingered like the unspoken truths in his words, he responded, "It’s not scarcity. It’s a lack of information—a lack of the right kind of coverage. Events like these, hosted by BEM, bring that information to the forefront and inspire action. He paused thoughtfully before adding, "I took one of our BEM calls during the workday, and afterward, I was pumped. I was ready to go. What you got for me? I was inspired."

That’s the power of BEM—a fire lit in every member, a collective brilliance driving them forward. As the night wound down, I looked around at the suits, the cigars, and the bonds being formed. Like Khristopher, I, too, felt ready to go—ready to tackle what’s next, with inspiration lighting the way.