Urban League Greater Southwestern Ohio

This Black History Month, we are highlighting the following entrepreneurs from Dayton. 

Dr. Jenny Wariboko
First Priority Urgent Care 

"As the owner of First Priority Urgent Care, I am deeply committed to providing compassionate, high-quality healthcare to the community I serve. With two urgent care locations, one in Trotwood and the other in Dayton, my goal has always been to ensure every patient feels valued, heard, and cared for."

"As a native of Miami, Florida, my journey into medicine brought me to Dayton, Ohio, in 2008 for my residency training at Wright State University School of Medicine. I am proud to say I graduated as Chief Resident in 2012 from the Internal Medicine-Pediatric Residency Program, a milestone that strengthened my dedication to service and excellence in healthcare. Inspired by this community’s resilience and the need for accessible medical care, I opened First Priority Urgent Care in Trotwood in August 2017. The second location in Dayton followed in January 2020, allowing us to expand our mission of prioritizing patient care." 

"During Black History Month, I reflect on the incredible legacy of Black pioneers in medicine who broke barriers and inspired generations. Figures like Dr. Charles Drew, who revolutionized blood storage and transfusion, and Dr. Rebecca Lee Crumpler, the first Black woman to earn a medical degree in the United States, paved the way for me to stand where I am today.   These two pioneers remind us of the importance of determination, innovation, and service to others. Their example motivates me to continue advocating for equitable and accessible healthcare for all."

"At First Priority Urgent Care, my team and I are honored to contribute to this legacy by caring for and compassionately serving our diverse community. Thank you for trusting us with your journey to better health. Together, we can build a healthier, stronger future for everyone."

Donna Wilson
Choice Juice Boxx

Donna Wilson (Dayton) is a dedicated entrepreneur and advocate for health and wellness in our community. After over 37 years of devoted Federal Civilian Service, Donna retired from the United States Air Force at Wright Patterson Air Force Base, where she dedicated her career to supporting others! Additionally, Donna was an aerobics instructor (on base) for five years and has a passion for fitness and holistic health. 

After purchasing a majority stake from her son Darrell F. Wilson II (founder) as a family, they have built Choice Juice Boxx (Alkaline Café) located Downtown at 31 S. St. Clair St., to be a beacon of wellness in the local community. As a certified Juice Therapist and Coach, Donna empowers people to make informed decisions about their health or lifestyle, offering tailored detox programs and nutritional guidance.

Choice Juice Boxx, located inside the 2nd Street Public Market (600 E Second Street Dayton), offers alkaline, fresh juices and smoothies, as well as healthy snacks and superfoods that promote wellness and vitality. By sourcing responsibly and fostering a welcoming environment, the business is committed to uplifting the community through clean, good practices.

Join us in celebrating Donna’s inspiring journey as an entrepreneur who continues to impact health, wellness, and style in our community, reflecting the rich legacy of Black History and the promise of future generations.

Ronald Akbar
D-Line Courier Service

"For many, the open road symbolizes freedom. For me, that freedom became real two years ago as I transitioned from my role in healthcare to embrace the life I’d long envisioned. I’d always been captivated by the idea of running my own business and charting my path, so I applied to work as an independent contractor with a broker house in Vandalia, OH. This partnership became the first mile in a journey that would ultimately lead to the launch of D-Line Courier Service."

"As a young child, I remember a family friend who owned a semi-truck. He’d let me climb into the cab and pull on the horn—a thrilling experience that ignited my love for vehicles and the road. Though I chose not to drive semis, I couldn’t shake the desire to build something of my own in the transportation world. I started with a single cargo van, delivering goods for the broker while learning the ins and outs of the industry. The plan was simple: establish myself, build a fleet, and eventually launch my own business."

"In November 2022, that dream became D-Line Courier Service. While I continue to partner with the broker company, D-Line is my own, and every mile feels like a step closer to my vision as a young child. I am now focusing on growing my brand and creating a niche in this industry that will lead to long-lasting success."

LaSue Juniel
DFL Nutrition & Cafe

"At DFL Nutrition & Cafe, my daughter and I are the heart and hands behind everything we do, powered by lots of love and a whole lot of faith."

"Our mission goes beyond serving food, we serve purpose. Every bowl, every smoothie, and every smile we share is rooted in love and inspired by the Fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). We believe in nourishing not just the body but also uplifting the spirit, creating a space where our community can feel loved, valued, and renewed."

"As we prepare to celebrate 10 incredible years this May (double digits, here we come!), we’re reflecting on the journey with gratitude for God’s blessings and the amazing support we’ve received from our community. Looking ahead, we’re excited to introduce new offerings, embrace growth, and continue pouring love and intention into everything we do."

"Thank you for being a part of our story. Here’s to many more years of nourishing the body and soul, one bite at a time!"

Centruela "Cece" Collier
CeCe’s Kitchen

CeCe, the heart and soul behind CeCe’s Kitchen, discovered her passion for cooking as a child. She experimented with flavors and created dishes that brought joy to others. What began as a hobby has grown into a thriving business fueled by her creativity, dedication, and love for food.

Now, after four successful years, CeCe’s Kitchen is entering an exciting new chapter at the Food Hall at the Silos. The grand opening on January 24th at 5 PM marks a milestone in CeCe’s journey, offering an opportunity to share her culinary passion with an even larger audience.

Join CeCe as she celebrates this next step and experience the love, creativity, and flavor that make CeCe’s Kitchen truly special. Don’t miss the grand opening and a chance to be part of this unforgettable culinary adventure.

Dr. Tanisha Richmond
Podiatrist

Tanisha Richmond is a Podiatrist practicing in Dayton, Ohio, since July 2008.  Dr. Richmond became a resident of Dayton in 2005.  After completing her Bachelor of Science in Biology from Talladega College, Talladega, AL, she went on to complete her Doctorate of Podiatric Medicine in 2005 from the Ohio College of Podiatric Medicine out of Cleveland, Ohio. She completed a three-year surgical and primary care residency at the Dayton, VA.  As an advocate of podiatry, Dr. Richmond is a Board Qualified Podiatrist with the American Board of Podiatric Primary Care and Orthopedics.  As an advocate of whole-body health and wellness, she has generously provided health education outreach and mentoring for local and regional organizations.  

"For the past 16 years, I've been dedicated to significantly impacting the healthcare community in Dayton, Ohio. As the only African-American female with a solo practice in Dayton,I believe I've saved countless lives by focusing on limb and foot health, particularly for diabetic patients. By providing care to thousands of individuals, I've contributed to the education and knowledge that help preserve lives and limbs," said Dr. Richmond.

Extensive travel with a father in the military resulted in residences in Wiesbaden-Germany, Dallas, Oklahoma City, Houston, New Orleans, Atlanta, and Knoxville.  Dr. Richmond enjoys reading, floral design, and line dancing.  She enjoys membership at Bethel Missionary Baptist Church, her church home, where she may be found actively volunteering in the Dayton community.   

Central Carolinas Urban League

The Urban Appraiser Initiative (UAI) is transforming the appraisal industry by creating opportunities for aspiring professionals. Through mentorship, training, and hands-on experience, supervisors and trainees are making remarkable progress, paving the way for a more diverse and skilled workforce.

Derrick Middleton and his trainee, Tonyu Marshall, have surpassed the 1,000-hour milestone, earning Tonyu a well-deserved stipend. Yet, her journey continues as she pursues certification, requiring additional experience and coursework. Meanwhile, Derrick is expanding his role by mentoring a new trainee, Darvelle Rouse, who is preparing to begin his training by the end of the month.

Elsewhere, Brian Creamer remains determined despite personal and professional setbacks. Having completed his required hours for the Certified Residential Exam, he is preparing to take the test while supporting his family through challenging times. Once certified, he is ready to launch his own business, a testament to his resilience and dedication.

Walter Snowden is guiding two trainees, Kelsie Hembrick and Reggie Ramsey, through the early stages of their careers. Kelsie has logged significant hours and is working toward licensure, while Reggie recently began his journey with an ambitious goal of becoming a certified residential appraiser.

More mentors and trainees are making strides, including Debra Perkins, who is set to onboard a new trainee, and Jason Koontz, whose mentee, Jeff Stevenson, is preparing for his licensing exam. Stacy Jones and Dawnielle Boykin have been approved to begin training, overcoming financial hurdles along the way, while Monica Long and Briana Johnson are navigating personal and workload challenges as they progress.

One-on-one engagement has been key to the program’s success, helping supervisors see the value in mentoring trainees. Overcoming doubts and fostering a positive mindset has encouraged many to embrace their roles fully. However, challenges remain, including securing funding for software licenses and navigating uncertainties around PAREA approval in North Carolina. Despite these hurdles, UAI is pressing forward with training and business education initiatives, including an upcoming virtual workshop on growing an appraisal business.

Through determination, mentorship, and strategic support, UAI is shaping the next generation of appraisers. With each milestone reached, the program continues to build a stronger, more inclusive industry, proving that investment in people leads to lasting success.