The transformation that happens every year in September occurs at the annual national conference executed by the National Black MBA Association. For over half a decade, the Washington, DC Chapter of the National Black MBA Association with the support Raymond James have underwritten nearly 100 students conference experience. This year, the 2025 cohort of Raymond James Conference Scholarship recipients is ten dynamic MBA students, recent graduates, and early-career professionals who will travel to Houston, Texas for the National Black MBA Association (NBMBAA) National Conference and Career Expo. Fittingly named the Talented Ten, the group reflects both excellence and diversity with six women and four men representing the next wave of leadership in business.
The scholarship, sponsored by Raymond James, provides financial assistance and access to one of the largest gatherings of Black business professionals in the world. For the recipients, the opportunity goes far beyond conference registration represents affirmation, connection, and a launching pad for greater impact.
Monica Arrington, one of this year’s scholars, expressed her, “I am most looking forward to connecting with accomplished professionals and peers who share similar goals of leadership and excellence in business. The conference provides a unique opportunity to gain insights from industry leaders and expand my network.” Inspired to attend after hearing Interim NBMBAA CEO, Orlando Ashford at a chapter meeting, Arrington sees this as both a career boost and a personal milestone. “Professionally, this opportunity will expand my network, enhance my leadership skills, and expose me to new perspectives that will strengthen my career trajectory. Personally, it serves as an affirmation of the hard work and resilience I’ve invested in my journey.”
For Leigh Masakara, the conference represents a rare chance to sit among peers and leaders who are shaping industries across the country. “I’m most excited to engage with Black business leaders and peers who are shaping industries across the country. The conference offers a unique chance to exchange ideas, find mentors, and collaborate on solutions that drive innovation and equity,” Masakara said. With a professional background in sustainable finance and insurance innovation, he hopes to leverage the conference to broaden his reach. “Professionally, it positions me to pursue leadership roles where I can advance inclusive finance and technology. Personally, it reminds me of my journey and fuels my responsibility to uplift and open doors for the next generation.”
Fungai M. Mukundiwa echoed the theme of access and acceleration. “I’m looking forward to connecting with industry leaders and employers at the national conference. It’s a unique chance to learn from seasoned professionals, expand my network, and explore opportunities that align with my career goals in finance and investment,” Mukundiwa shared. He sees the scholarship as a vital resource for emerging leaders like himself. “Professionally, this experience accelerates my transition into full-time employment by providing exposure to firms and mentors I wouldn’t meet otherwise. Personally, it reinforces the importance of community and support systems reminding me to pay it forward for those who come after me.”
The Talented Ten exemplifies why scholarships like this are essential. They reduce barriers, affirm talent, and ensure that a new generation of Black leaders are prepared to thrive in business and beyond. “We recognize the importance in providing opportunities like these, as they are key to giving future Black leaders the leverage they need to excel and elevate to the next level,” explains Dr. Carletta S. Hurt, President of the DC Chapter. “The Talented Ten represent the brilliance, resilience, and promise of Black leadership within the organization and I am proud to see these scholars get this opportunity.”
The National Black MBA Association’s annual conference is the premiere conference for Black professionals. With thousands of attendees, hundreds of exhibitors and schools, panels, and corporate networking, it’s a career-shaping, transformative experience.
