YOUNGSTOWN - The sound of the Black National Anthem filled the room Sunday as the Fifth Annual Black Excellence Expo opened inside the Eugenia Atkins Recreation Center.

What began as a simple vision has grown into a signature community event in Youngstown.

"This just started with a vision that I had and I never thought that we would be here five years later, but here we are. I'm excited about it," organizer, Keyoina Owens said.

The expo brought together business owners, professionals, students and community leaders for a day centered on networking, achievement and cultural celebration. 

Youngstown Mayor Derrick McDowell was among those in attendance, offering remarks about the importance of economic empowerment. 

"Youngstown has to understand that it's going to build back. It's going to battle against all of the forces that are trying to keep us in a state of economic depression and despair, and it's going to set its own course by bringing products that we've created with our own hands, our own ingenuity, our own mindset and creativity right to market. And so that's the importance of what these things represent," McDowell said.

Owens told 21 News that the event has steadily expanded over the years. What started with 20 vendors has now grown to 50, which reflected the increased interest and community support of the event. 

"I'm reminded of how this event brings the community out. It brings small business owners together [and] in the mix of that is just a great thing, so it's needed for the community," Owens said.

Owens looks forward to the expo growing even more. She hopes to hold the event at the Covelli Centre within the next five years.