Rochester Business Journal Partnership

Since 2019, the Rochester Business Journal has hosted an annual Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Summit. In partnership with the RBJ, LáLew PR set out to transform how Black and brown- owned businesses and grassroots stories are represented in local media. Together, we launched a recurring column featuring monthly articles that spotlight the achievements of Black and brown entrepreneurs - intentionally creating space for voices that are often underrepresented.

To ensure the initiative was rooted in community impact, we began with a comprehensive media landscape analysis to identify representation gaps and storytelling opportunities. Guided by insights from community leaders and our own research, we curate stories that showcase resilience, innovation and empowerment.

Over the past 2 years, 20 stories have been published, generating 631.35K unique views and earning an 83% positive audience sentiment. Our strategy includes aligning stories with timely events and using targeted outreach to maximize visibility and engagement. 

This ongoing collaboration not only amplifies underrepresented voices but also promotes economic equity, proving the power of intentional storytelling to drive real change in Rochester’s media landscape. 

To read more about our featured business owners, follow the links below:

• Calvin Eaton, The Gluten-Free Chef, celebrates new cookbook

• Glow Roc Spa seeks to create a sanctuary for Black beauty

• Attorney Craig Carson celebrates 10 years of making impact in Rochester

• Khadijah Tillman aims to empower communities, remove mental health care barriers

• LaShunda Leslie-Smith — Connecting communities in Rochester 

• When I think of home: Remembering and honoring the legacy of Clarissa Street

• Grupo Cultural Latinos en Rochester: Celebrating a decade of Latin culture and community 

• Free event at Geva showcases Rochester’s Black community in pictures  

• Latino Youth and Development Resource Center Empowers Youth Through Mentorship, Community Engagement, Skills Development

• Jackie Photography: Capturing self-love through the lens

• Dr. Mary Bisbee-Burrows bridges economic gaps, fostering entrepreneurship for women

• Juneteenth Festival marks 60 years in Rochester’s fight for justice

• Kristen Walker creates inclusive book space with Noire Reading Room

• The Maisha Experience: Empowering the community through storytelling and public speaking

• Black-owned In Rochester: Supporting Black-owned businesses year-round

• Unlock growth and opportunities at Rochester Economic Development Summit

• Community connection through healing power of art

• Urban League of Rochester: A legacy of advocacy and action spanning six decades

• READY to transform: A vision for the Rochester City School District