On Friday, February 28, GRID Alternatives Greater Los Angeles (GRID GLA) closed out Black History Month with Black Solar Innovators, a vibrant and inspiring community event held at the Slauson Recreation Center. This celebration brought together climate justice, culture, and community leadership in a powerful gathering that honored the contributions of Black leaders in the renewable energy space. It also marked a meaningful reconnection between GRID GLA and South Los Angeles—a region full of resilience, creativity, and power, yet too often left out of conversations around the clean energy transition.
Designed to uplift Black excellence in sustainability and provide tangible resources to local residents, the event offered something for everyone. Families were treated to free tacos from Hi Johnny Food Truck, lively music curated by the legendary DJ R-Tistic, and interactive kids' activities including crafts and games. The atmosphere was joyful and welcoming, with raffle prizes, live demonstrations, and over a dozen community organizations offering information on no-cost solar, job training, green careers, utility assistance, and even free trees. Black Solar Innovators showcased the power of community-driven climate solutions and underscored GRID GLA’s commitment to ensuring South LA has a seat at the table in building a just and equitable energy future.
“We wanted this to be a joyful moment of empowerment, South LA deserves to see itself at the center of the clean energy future and that’s what this event was all about.”
Orlanda Cunningham, Senior Outreach Coordinator
Lifting Up Local Leaders
A key feature of the event was a panel of Black professionals in technology and sustainability. Panelists included:
- Shameka Dixon, GRID GLA
- Unique Thomas, GRID GLA
- Starlett Quarles, Minority Renewable Energy Project of California
- Treasure Owens, POWERS Women’s Network Inc.
- Johnny Andrade, LA Pulse
Together, they shared their journeys and perspectives on what it means to lead in the green economy and how representation, equity, and access are essential to a just climate transition.
“Representation matters, when communities see people who look like them leading this work, it changes what feels possible.”
--Shameka Dixon, GRID GLA’s Director of Workforce Development
A Moment of Recognition
The evening also included a proud moment of acknowledgment: GRID GLA received the “Champion of Change” award from the Office of Senator Lola Smallwood-Cuevas. The award honored GRID’s commitment to uplifting communities through clean energy access, workforce development, and environmental justice.
Innovating Toward a Just Future
Over 150 residents attended the event, engaging with service providers, signing up for free solar consultations, and enrolling in job training opportunities. A huge thanks to our partners who helped bring this event together: TreePeople, Central City Neighborhood Partners, Mother’s Nutritional Center, Center For Employment Opportunities, Tree People, CRCD, Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), South Central Alliance, SEA, VOA, Community Safety Policing, Bright Life Kids - Mental Health Services for children, WLCAC, Family Source center, Leaders UP, MaMa's Del Sur Centro, SELA Youth Source Center - Yo Watts, Metro.
Black Solar Innovators was more than a celebration. It was a powerful reminder that South LA is not only participating in the clean energy movement, it’s helping lead it. GRID GLA is proud to stand with this community in building a sustainable, equitable future rooted in local leadership and innovation.
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