Spotlights
SEPTEMBER 2026
Raza Manji
Strong relationships open doors to new opportunities and lasting business growth.
Our September Business Spotlight features Raza Manji Director of Sales & Marketing at Visual Citi Inc With more than 30 years of experience in signage, printing, and fabrication, Raza helps clients bring their visions to life while building partnerships rooted in collaboration and trust.
As an Ascend Long Island business, Visual Citi Inc. is part of a community focused on growth through the 3M Framework—Management, Money, and Markets. Raza’s commitment to connecting people and creating opportunities reflects that shared focus. His network spans the U.S. and international markets, including connections through the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC).
Beyond his work with clients, Raza shares his experience through mentorship, supporting the next generation of industry leaders. His story highlights how investing in relationships can strengthen businesses and extend their impact to the people around them.
AUGUST 2026
Nelson Tavares
Legacy is built through discipline, integrity, and the opportunities we create for others. 🏗️
We are proud to feature Nelson Tavares, President and CEO of Watson Stone and Tristate Steel Corp, in our August Business Spotlight. Rooted in the values passed down from his Dominican family - hard work, humility, perseverance, and respect - Nelson leads with a deep commitment to building more than projects. His companies help support the schools, hospitals, infrastructure, and commercial developments that strengthen our communities.
As an Ascend/BGA 3.0 Long Island member, Nelson brings the 3M Framework - Management, Markets, and Money - into his growth journey as he continues building strong partnerships, expanding opportunity, and leading with long-term vision. His story is a powerful reminder that entrepreneurship is not only about business growth, but about the legacy we build and the opportunities we create for the next generation.
JULY 2026
Angela Slevin and Joseph Slevin
Adaptability is what keeps a business moving forward - and Solterix Corporation has built its growth on knowing how to add, adjust, and deliver.
We are proud to feature Angela Slevin, President, and Joe Slevin, Director of Sales and Business Development of Solterix Corporation in our July Business Spotlight.
Solterix is a certified Women-Owned Business Enterprise and full-service turn-key operation specializing in cable and conduit installation, with a strong focus on Horizontal Directional Drilling, Multi-Dwelling Unit, Overhead, Splicing, and Emergency projects. For nearly 11 years, the company has built a reputation rooted in respect, unity, safety, reliability, performance, and the ability to deliver on schedule.
JUNE 2026
Marie E. Saint Cyr
Art has the power to transform spaces, bridge cultures, and empower communities.
We are proud to feature Marie Saint-Cyr, the visionary founder of Saint-Cyr Art Studio, in our June Business Spotlight. Drawing deep inspiration from her Haitian roots—with her artwork proudly exhibited at the Haitian Embassy—Marie has completed over 350 large-scale murals nationwide, championing diverse representation while creating vital employment opportunities for working artists.
As an Ascend Long Island member, Marie leverages the 3M Framework—Management, Markets, and Money—to navigate over $3 million in contracts and manage 7 business certifications. Her elite entrepreneurial trajectory includes fellowships with the Haiti Cultural Exchange and the Jamaica Center for Arts and Learning, alongside participating in more than 11 business development programs, including Goldman Sachs and the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth. Her journey proves that with the right ecosystem, there are no limits to growth.
MAY 2026
Derek Price
We are kicking things off by welcoming a powerhouse leader to the lineup: Derek Price. As the Founder and CEO of New York Plumbing Wholesale & Supply, Derek operates the largest independent minority-owned plumbing supply business in New York.
His track record of scaling complex logistics and leading high-performing teams makes him a perfect fit for this cohort.
MAY 2026
Janna Rodriguez
Leadership is about building a foundation for the next generation.
We are proud to feature Janna Rodriguez, the visionary founder of The Innovative Daycare Corp (IDC), in our May Business Spotlight. For 13 years, Janna has provided a bilingual and inclusive environment for children in Freeport, and she is now scaling her impact with the expansion of a second location.
As an Ascend Long Island member, Janna leverages the 3M Framework—Management, Markets, and Money—to strengthen the childcare workforce and pioneer comprehensive models of family support. Her journey from a young healthcare professional to a nationally recognized advocate proves that with the right ecosystem, there are no limits to growth.
APRIL 2026
Annemarie diSalvo
For our April Business Highlight, we are proud to feature Annemarie diSalvo, President of diSalvo Interiors. Since 1996, Annemarie has specialized in new construction and gut renovations, bringing a unique perspective to residential and corporate projects across the region.
As a graduate of the Columbia University Grow program and a vital member of the Ascend Long Island cohort, Annemarie combines decades of design expertise with a drive for executive excellence. We are honored to have diSalvo Interiors in our network as she continues to scale her vision and leadership!
Learn more about diSalvo Interiors and their personalized ‘small firm’ interior design services.
MARCH 2026
Jimmy Moyen
Ascend Long Island is proud to highlight Jimmy Moyen, President of First Choice Mechanical and a dedicated member of the Ascend Long Island cohort.
Since 2001, Jimmy has built a trusted reputation providing expert HVAC services to residential, commercial, and municipal clients across New York. We are thrilled to support the continued growth and leadership of this standout Ascend Long Island business!
Business to Know
