Celebrating Black Girl Ventures CEO Omi Bell x Nike: A Historic Collaboration Captured by Milton Lawrence Jr

Black Girls Venture CEO Omi Bell featuring her exclusively designed Nike Shoe - Capture by Milton Lawrence

It’s hard to recognize history when you’re standing in the middle of it.

But that’s exactly what happened the day Black Girl Ventures was awarded their very own exclusive Nike shoe — a cultural milestone led by visionary founder and CEO Omi Bell.

This wasn’t just a sneaker.

It was a statement.

A bold reminder that Black women aren’t just making waves in business — they’re designing the blueprint.

A Rooftop, A Moment, A Movement

Time wasn’t something Omi had on her side that day — but impact doesn’t wait.

With minutes to shoot and only natural light to work with, I leaned into what I’ve learned over 15 years as a globally recognized portrait and personal brand photographer:

Trust the story. Follow the energy. Let the subject lead.

No fancy studio. No elaborate setup.

Just a rooftop, creative angles, and a CEO who was about to make history.

Why We Celebrate Omi Bell

Omi is more than a founder.

She is a force.

Through Black Girl Ventures, she and her team have been funding Black women-owned businesses, amplifying community voices, and creating real access to capital for underrepresented founders.

But what makes this moment even more meaningful to me — and to other DMV-based creatives — is that she doesn’t do it alone.

From inbound campaigns to outbound storytelling, Omi intentionally empowers local photographers, filmmakers, designers, and writers to help build the brand. She’s not just creating opportunities — she’s multiplying them.

So on behalf of my team and the many creatives across DC, Maryland, and Virginia who’ve been touched by her vision:

We celebrate you, Omi.

Let’s Not Miss What’s Happening Here

This isn’t just about a shoe.

This is about seeing a Black woman founder honored by one of the most iconic brands in the world — and doing it her way.

It’s about proving that legacy isn’t something you wait to be handed. You build it. And sometimes you do it in sneakers, standing on a rooftop, with the wind in your hair and the city at your back.

Ready to Build Your Legacy On Camera?

I’m Milton Lawrence Jr., internationally published personal brand photographer and filmmaker. I’ve spent over 15 years helping women show up with confidence, clarity, and power in front of the lens through expert posing, positioning, and projection.

If you’re ready to tell your story, elevate your brand, and build your visual legacy with intention — I’d be honored to help.

📍Based in the DMV. Serving clients worldwide.

Let’s create history — one frame at a time.