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Subjects: BLK, CSR, DEI

Hennessy Unveils 2021 Inaugural Members of "Never Stop Never Settle Society," An Initiative for Black Entrepreneurs


NEW YORK, Aug. 24, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Hennessy announces the selection of twenty esteemed inaugural members inducted today to the "Never Stop Never Settle Society," a $1MM program to champion the next generation of Black entrepreneurs. The initiative was introduced in March 2021 to support a more equitable landscape for inclusive business growth and development.  

"Hennessy recognizes the tenacity and resilience each selected member embodies as they push the limits of potential to carve their path, address social and economic challenges and make a lasting impact on their community," says Jasmin Allen, Senior Vice President, Hennessy US. "Hennessy has always supported the Black community. We are honored to continue this legacy through the "Never Stop Never Settle Society" by celebrating extraordinary individuals and championing the vision of their businesses."

The "Never Stop Never Settle Society'' builds on Hennessy's long-standing commitment to Black communities, a legacy that dates back to the 1800s through a spectrum of investments and sponsorship of civic organizations to enhance community development. The program is co-created with partner Marcus Graham Project, a non-profit organization that shares Hennessy's mission to support Black entrepreneurs through funding and resources for meaningful growth. The twenty members were chosen for their commitment to reshaping the world through social impact, increasing representation in otherwise white spaces for Black-owned businesses, and job creation within their communities. Each member will be provided with $50,000, access to professional development sessions with Moët Hennessy executives, a membership to The Gathering Spot Connect, a Black-owned digital community offering culturally relevant content, networking, and business development resources. Members will also have access to a state-of-the-art physical office at Moët Hennessy headquarters in New York City. 

Hennessy believes these candidates are a catalyst to creating change for the future with respect to past models of community-built success, including Tulsa's Greenwood District. The "Never Stop Never Settle Society" is a legacy program that will continue to invest in Black entrepreneurs and their journeys to further their dreams and transform communities. The 2021 inaugural members of Hennessy's "Never Stop Never Settle Society" include:

"Marcus Graham Project shares Hennessy's vision to embolden the rich legacies of Black entrepreneurs who are moving the culture forward," says Lincoln Stephens, Co-Founder, and CEO of the Marcus Graham Project (MGP). "We are honored to have co-created a platform that will continue to champion Black excellence, celebrate entrepreneurial endeavors, and advance early ventures."

For additional information about the 2021 inaugural members of Hennessy's "Never Stop Never Settle Society," please visit NeverStopNeverSettleSociety.org.

About Hennessy

The leader in Cognac, the Maison Hennessy has shined around the world with its exceptional blends for more than 250 years. Built on founder Richard Hennessy's spirit of conquest, the brand is present in more than 160 countries. Based in the heart of the Charente region, Hennessy is also a steadfast pillar of the regional economy, the standard-bearer for a sector rich in expertise. The House's success and longevity are rooted in the excellence of its cognacs, each of which is born of a unique process of transmission from generation to generation. The first wine and spirits house to be certified ISO 14001, Hennessy unites its capacity for innovation and the support of all of its partners to protect this exceptional area. As the crown jewel of the LVMH Group, Hennessy is a major contributor to French international trade, with 99% of production sold in export, and a worldwide ambassador for the French art de vivre.

Hennessy is imported and distributed in the U.S. by Moët Hennessy USA. Hennessy distills, ages and blends spanning a full range: Hennessy V.S, V.S.O.P Privilège, Hennessy Black, X.O, Privé, Paradis, Paradis Imperial and Richard Hennessy. Imported Cognac Hennessy® 40% Alc./Vol. (80º), ©2021 Imported by Moët Hennessy USA, Inc., New York, NY.

About Marcus Graham Project

Founded nearly 15 years ago, the Marcus Graham Project (MGP) is a national non-profit organization focused on developing the next generation of diverse leaders in the advertising, media, and marketing industries through training, mentorship, and professional development opportunities to ensure the industry is more inclusive to better reflect the diverse world we live in.

Media Contacts

Sabrina Browne, BCW Global
646-385-9586, [email protected] 

Katherine Espinosa, BCW Global
(718) 644-9276, [email protected]

SOURCE Hennessy



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