Financial Plus Credit Union Announces Three 'Billboards of Inclusion' 2024 Contest Winners

Financial Plus Credit Union is excited to announce the three winners of its second annual ‘Billboards of Inclusion: Minority Business Spotlight’ contest: Anthony Artis and Davida Artis from The Artis Collection, Tajhae Barr with Wombman Unspoken, and Sheena Harrison with Drinks of Essence. Each winner will receive a free billboard courtesy of Financial Plus that will be displayed for four weeks.

“We’re excited to give small business owners a platform to highlight their skills and impact on the community,” said Allen Williams, Diversity, Equity, and Business Partner at Financial Plus Credit Union. “We’re grateful to have received 70 applications from local entrepreneurs and to see this contest grow. We look forward to working alongside the winners to design the billboard of their dreams.”

The ‘Billboards of Inclusion’ Project underwent a thorough selection process, carried out by a committee of Financial Plus team members, who selected the recipients. The winners will meet with Financial Plus’ marketing team for a brand strategy session to discuss turning their vision into a billboard.

About the winners:

Anthony and Davida founded The Artis Collection of African American Fine in September 2014 during the Flint Water Crisis, initially inspired by selling a collection of African American artworks. The Artis Collection uses African American art to educate and engage people of all ages, inspiring community growth and development through visual arts. By teaching art programs and partnering with various organizations, The Artis Collection promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion, empowering individuals to understand African American history and universal human themes.

Founded by Tajhae Barr, a holistic fertility doula, Wombman Unspoken addresses the unique needs of women in fertility and womb wellness. Tajhae’s personal experiences and the lack of holistic and culturally sensitive reproductive health care motivated her to create Wombman Unspoken. The organization hosts educational workshops, collaborates with local health providers, and advocates for reproductive justice. Through inclusive hiring practices, culturally competent care, and community outreach, Wombman Unspoken empowers women to take control of their reproductive health.

Located in downtown Flint, Drinks of Essence is the only licensed bartending school in Mid-Michigan, dedicated to bridging the gap between traditional education and trade skills. Under the leadership of Sheena Harrison, the school has trained and certified over 500 students, providing comprehensive graduate support and employment assistance, which has led to a high employment rate among graduates. By offering hands-on training, education, and support services, Drinks of Essence not only equips individuals with valuable skills, but also strengthens the community and nurtures employability.

About Financial Plus Credit Union: Since 1952, Financial Plus has been putting today’s needs and tomorrow’s dreams all within reach. Owned by over 82,000 members with more than $1.3 billion in assets, the credit union provides a full range of modern, easily accessible banking products and services to all throughout the state of Michigan. For more information, visit myfpcu.com or call (800) 748-0451.