BLACK ON BLACK
A dynamic series of events dedicated to showcasing the craft and expertise of Black pioneers in the wine, culinary, fashion, music, and hospitality industries. Through a curated selection of experiences, we aim to celebrate the contributions and talents of Black professionals, fostering a deeper appreciation for their impact on these vibrant fields.
Each event features a marquis dinner, engaging discussions,tastings, performances, and networking opportunities, all designed to elevate and honor the rich heritage and innovation within these industries.
Join us as we shine a spotlight on the artistry and excellence of Black creators and leaders, inspiring future generations to continue this legacy.
WHO WE ARE
Alicia Towns Franken, co-founder
She began her career as the Wine Director for Boston’s renowned Grill 23 & Bar, where she spent over a decade building one of the city’s most respected wine programs, she earned numerous accolades from Boston Magazine,The Boston Globe, Les Dames d’Escoffier, and Wine Spectator. Her passion for fostering community, mentorship, and a more diverse wine industry led her to become Executive Director of Wine Unify, an organization dedicated to welcoming, elevating and amplifying the voices of underrepresented minorities in wine. Building on this mission, Alicia co-founded Towns Wine Co. with her husband, Michael.
More than just a wine company,Towns Wine Co. is a movement̶ one that amplifies the voices, talent, and stories of female winemakers of color.
Chef JJ Johnson, co-founder
Cultural tastemaker, family man and renowned American chef, JJ Johnson is most recognized for his innovative approach to African Caribbean cuisine. His work has earned him numerous accolades, including the James Beard Foundation Book Award and a two-time spot on the Nation’s Restaurant News Power List.
He has been featured on a variety of TV shows including Food Network’s Chopped, Netflix’s Street Food and Selena + Chef on HBO Max and hosts his own show, 'Just Eats with Chef JJ’ airing for its fifth season on TV One's network Cleo TV this fall. Chef JJ's highly anticipated cookbook, The Simple Art of Rice: Recipes from Around the World for the Heart of Your Table, released in September 2023. At FIELDTRIP, JJ’s rapidly growing multi-unit fast casual rice bowl concept, he champions sustainability, working with local rice farmers and producers to source the freshest ingredients. With four locations throughout New York City, he is a community advocate for food justice and equity raising awareness within the industry. JJ also has a restaurant concept, Bankside slated to launch in May with Mark Lore and the team at Wonder.
DLynn Proctor, co-founder
He has been a figure in the wine industry for 25 years. During his early career he was an influential Sommelier known for building restaurant lists and training programs.
He has spent the last 15 years in global leadership roles with Fantesca Estate & Winery and Penfolds focusing on import/export, sales, marketing, strategy, and consumer relations.
DLynn is a partner in Gabriel-Glas North America and the Co-Founder of Wine Unify; and was an Associate Producer on, and appeared in, Netflix’s feature film, “Uncorked.”
He can currently be seen in Kevin Hart’s “Hart to Heart” on Peacock TV
Gary Obligacion, co-founder
A seasoned hospitality consultant with more than four decades of experience. Gary spent 8-1/2 years with The Alinea Group in Chicago, where he served as Director of Operations and later as Director of Development for the group's acclaimed restaurants, including Alinea, Next, Aviary, and Roister.
He began his career in 1984 at Alice Water's landmark restaurant, Chez Panisse, while he attended the UC Berkeley.
His management experience runs from high end restaurants like Alinea, to luxury hotels (Post Ranch Inn, Pebble Beach Resorts, Ritz-Carlton Hotels), and world class events like The FOOD & WINE Classic in Aspen and Pebble Beach Food & Wine.
