The Entrepreneur Educational Center Inc. (EECI) hosted a successful Grand Opening Open House Celebration on Dec. 21. The event highlighted the organization’s commitment to community growth, entrepreneurship, and unification. Community leaders, alumni, and celebrities attended the event to celebrate the continued progress and prosperity of EECI’s mission to uplift underserviced communities in Los Angeles.
Hosted in the newly renovated Steven Bradford Global Communications Center at 555 West. Redondo Beach Blvd., in the city of Gardena, CA. This location holds its classes and broadcasts to the community as well as Lusaka, Zambia, in the continent of Africa.
The red carpet included Jonathan Bowers (Senate District 35) and L.A. Councilman Tim McOsker (Council District 15), who took part in interviews and shared their support for the impactful work being done by EECI.
Also, EECI honored Senator Bradford, and the Voice of Hope and Change Honor was given to Siedah Garrett. Architect Susan Nwankpa Gillespie was saluted for her exemplary vision and design of the EECI headquarters.
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EECI Director Barbara Stanton received a special recognition of the EECI’s Grand Opening from the office of Assemblyman Mike Gibson and the organization was acknowledged for its contributions to the community and its role in fostering economic empowerment.
As part of the event, EECI alumni shared their entrepreneurial journeys, spotlighting the practical and educational support received through EECI’s programs. According to an attendee, “This display of success served as a testament to the life-changing impact EECI has had on individuals in the region.”
Entertainment was provided by Lonzo Williams, also known as the godfather of West Coast hip hop, and featured vocalist Nichole McIntyre, and R&B crooner Sean Miller. High Expectations Performing Arts Academy, led by Porsche Norman-Rudison, performed a stunning dance routine that dazzled attendees. Spoken Word, delivered by Simone Thompson, also kept everyone captivated.
One of the evening’s most memorable performers was Fairy, a 2024 Business Program Alumni and an Iranian native who came to the USA and started a record label. She performed an original song called “Jingle My Bells.” “Fairy’s impressive accomplishments could never be achieved in her home country,” an observer said.
Guests also had the opportunity to explore the full range of EECI programs. A special highlight of the day was the exhibit for the PADI Certification Open-Water Diving Program, which featured training footage and scuba equipment, giving attendees a firsthand look at this unique program.
EECI’s diving initiative, aimed at opening doors for minority men and women in the diving industry, has been a critical component in broadening career pathways in the local community, especially in the Port of Los Angeles.
For more information about EECI and its programs, visit www.eecica.org
