The 17th installment of the Black Men’s Brunch took place at the Navy Yard in Brooklyn Saturday to bring together Black men and women of New York City, while patronizing minority-owned establishments.

Built from an idea that Mayor Eric Adams had over a decade ago, the event brings together the men of New York City to work on meaningful agendas.

“It's about bringing men and women together, especially the men…to have brunch, and to…have a real conversation about our issues and our solutions,” says Andre T. Mitchell, the New York City gun violence prevention czar.

Everyone at the event exemplified what it means to be a successful Black entrepreneur and leader.

“It makes me feel good as a Black man to help give back to the community, to support and patronize one another,” says Christopher Webb, an associate real estate broker.

Through this event, ran by 500 Men Making a Difference, over $50,000 has been spent at local businesses, while providing mentorship, internships and jobs for over 300 young men in the city.

For the first time in this brunch's history, Dr. Loida Lewis was honored with the Pioneer Award for its Women's History Month tribute.

“It feels good because she's going to pave the way for the rest of us, into absolute greatness,” says entrepreneur Arkell Cox.

Amongst the impressive leaders there was News 12’s Phil Tait, showing what it means to be a trailblazer for Black men and women in New York City.