Cricket Wireless announced winners of its Cricket Community Stars: Salute to Solopreneurs contest, created to recognize hardworking entrepreneurs who are the true stars in their communities.
Russell Hicks, founder of Ebony Suns Enterprises in Philadelphia, was named grand prize winner and will receive $5,000 and one year of complimentary service from Cricket Wireless. Through Ebony Suns Enterprises, Hicks provides sustainable business consulting to individuals and organizations, and actively contributes to the community by mentoring urban youth and creating social entrepreneurship programs.
“We are pleased to recognize Russell Hicks as the first Cricket Community Star and congratulate the other finalists who are committed to building both their brand and community,” says Jermaine Spight, senior public relations manager, Cricket Wireless. “Cricket Wireless is a community brand that supports organizations making a difference in the neighborhoods where our customers live, work and play.”
Finalists Zondra Hughes, founder of Six Brown Chicks, and Michael Ferrera, founder of Michael Ferrera Custom Clothing were awarded 2nd– and 3rd-place prize packages and will respectively receive $2,500 and six months of complimentary service, and $1,000 and three months of complimentary service from Cricket. Additionally, Hicks, Hughes and Ferrera will each receive a Samsung Galaxy S® 5 courtesy of Samsung Telecommunications America.
“These types of initiatives illustrate the power of community partnerships,” says Munson Steed, CEO of Steed Media Group. “Hopefully, Cricket will continue this program and its celebration of the best and brightest entrepreneurs who truly make a lasting impact in our communities.”
