DAVIE – For the past decade, South Florida has quietly transformed into a mecca of accomplished black people.

With the launch of ICABA, Jerome Hutchinson Jr. is recognizing influential people in the tri-county area. A first-of-its-kind convergence network, ICABA, which stands for Identify, Connect and Activate the Black Accomplished, aims to build relationships with accomplished black professionals and entrepreneurs, and those who aspire to follow in their footsteps.

On Nov. 13, ICABA will host its inaugural event to honor 100 icons, luminaries and rising stars who are positively impacting South Florida’s healthcare and legal arenas as well as unveil its first profile directory.

“I’ve always been engaged in the community and one to work with young people in terms of mentoring,” said Hutchinson, CEO of ICABA Media Holdings, LLC. “That was something we felt was important for us and we will provide that inspiration through the individuals that we profile and make available to young people.”

The directory comprises multiple sections that feature several of South Florida’s most prominent legal and healthcare professionals. They will be honored at the reception for their invaluable contributions to their careers and communities.

Hutchinson said the rising stars are individuals under the age of 40 who are already emerging as leaders; luminaries are those who stand out in their professional arena; ICABA icons are recognized as historical pioneers who paved the way for others to follow in their footsteps.

Among the honorees are Dr. Catherine Lowe, an ophthalmologist in Palm Beach County who has been an active community service and civic leader; Dr. Nelson Adams, a gynecologist who has many accomplishments including past presidency of the National Medical Association; attorney George Knox, the City of Miami’s first black attorney; Judge Ed Rogers, and attorney Marlon Hill, known for his tireless service to the local community.

“As a community, we have an unrealized, untapped power and it is important for us to celebrate each other and to tap into the resources that we have to benefit our professional development and for the greater advancement of our community,” Hill told the South Florida Times.

The reception will also feature the launch ICABA World, an online social community where accomplished Black professionals and entrepreneurs can socialize and develop partnerships and career opportunities. 

Hutchinson said another ICABA objective is to archive this documentation for historical purposes.

“We want to really drill deep because our focus really is a lot more than just having a print publication where you just read about people who are accomplished, but to truly get these individuals connected to one another and activate relationships that will develop opportunities for them individually as well as put our overall community in a better position,” Hutchinson said.

Hutchinson started ICABA shortly after the death of his wife, Pamela, the first associate publisher of Who’s Who in Black South Florida. The Hutchinsons’ goal was to showcase successful black achievers who live and work in South Florida and promote their accomplishments as well as provide a business networking tool.

Pamela Hutchinson died shortly after the release of the inaugural edition of Who’s Who in Black South Florida in 2007 at age 45, following brain surgery.

Inspired by his wife’s legacy, Jerome Hutchinson created ICABA, a separate company from Who’s Who that integrates a website highlighting black professionals, an online social networking platform, print profile directories and signature events aimed at creating opportunities for individuals to connect and develop relationships.

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IF YOU GO

What: ICABA Inaugural Recognition Reception

When:  Friday, Nov.13 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Cocktails and hors d'oeuvres will be served.

Where:  Nova Southeastern University H. Wayne Huizenga School of Business and Entrepreneurship, Miniaci Theater located at 3301 College Avenue, Davie.

Cost: $50

Contact: For more information call 954-473-4405 or visit icabaworld.com