Tulsa Gala

Program Overview

TULSA GALA

The Tulsa Initiative's 2024 Gala and Pitch Competition, themed "Innovation Oasis" will transform the gala venue into an oasis of creativity and inspiration, this theme combines elements of modern innovation with natural beauty, offering a refreshing and forward-looking experience for all attendees. This year's event will be held on December 7, 2024, at The Metropolitan Room, last year event attracted a diverse audience of over 215 attendees, fostering an atmosphere of celebration, innovation, and community engagement.

Keynote Speaker

Rev. R. Janae Pitts-Murdock, Pastor R. Janae Pitts-Murdock, a Detroit native, is an ordained minister who has served in various leadership roles in ministry and public service. Pastor Janae's career includes serving as Lead Pastor at Mississippi Boulevard Christian Church in Memphis, where she led transformative ministry efforts, and as Coordinator of Teen Services for the Memphis Public Library, where she spearheaded the $2 million development of CLOUD901, a digital teen learning lab. Since August 2019, she has served as Senior Pastor at Light of the World Christian Church in Indianapolis, becoming their first female pastor in 154 years, leading the church through revitalization and launching innovative ministries. Pastor Janae is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and numerous civic organizations. She is married to Dr. Jeffrey Allen Murdock, and they have two sons.

The Tulsa Initiative, Inc.

Gala Honorees

The event also honored outstanding individuals for their contributions to the community, including Icon of the Year, Volunteer of the Year, Entrepreneur of the Year, Advocate of the Year, Educator of the Year, Board Member of the Year, and TLEA Ambassador of the Year. These honorees exemplify excellence in leadership, service, and advocacy, embodying the values that The Tulsa Initiative aims to promote.

Impact and Legacy

The Tulsa Initiative 2024 Gala and Pitch Competition celebrated entrepreneurship, leadership, and community engagement, underscoring the organization’s commitment to building a brighter future for the community. The recognition of pitch competition winners and gala honorees reflects the collaborative efforts and support for outstanding individuals and entrepreneurs. The legacy of this event will inspire future initiatives and drive positive change in the Tulsa community. All proceeds from the event will support The Tulsa Initiative Inc (501c3 organization).

2023 Pitch Competition Winners

The pitch competition produced two exceptional winners:

Jaelan Rainey

Jaelan Rainey, Co-Owner of A.C.E Sport Academy, impressed the judges with his innovative vision for athletic excellence and community development.

Justin Pruitt

Justin Pruitt, CEO of The Juice Products, captured attention with his unique business model promoting health and wellness through innovative beverage products.

Both winners received a substantial prize of three thousand dollars each as seed funding for their businesses, reflecting The Tulsa Initiative's dedication to supporting and nurturing local entrepreneurship.