Marie Firmin

Marie Firmin is a leader, innovator, and doer whose work continues to uplift entrepreneurs and strengthen community connections. Her signature event, the Black Biz Ball, is now in its sixth year and has recognized more than 100 local businesses for excellence in marketing and advertising, creating a platform that celebrates achievement while fostering growth. 

Her project, The Way We Were: Roxbury Black Wall Street 1900 to 1965, is now in its second year. Originally launched as a conference, it highlights the rich history of Black entrepreneurship in Roxbury through deep research, oral histories, and powerful performances. Over 60 local artists bring the work to life, blending storytelling with data-driven insights to preserve and honor the past. 

Both initiatives create meaningful opportunities by supporting small businesses and generating short-term employment within the community. They also complement and enhance EAP training programs, an innovative offering designed for youth ages 14–22, local entrepreneurs, and individuals looking to build foundational business skills and expand their opportunities.