The City of Miramar has earned top national recognition for its commitment to inclusivity, innovation, and economic empowerment. The National League of Cities (NLC) named Miramar the first-place winner of the 2025 City Cultural Diversity Awards for its standout initiative, the Miramar Business Academy (MBA).
Miramar was one of only four cities across the United States to receive the award, and the top winner in the 50,001–200,000 population category. The annual NLC award honors municipalities that develop creative, impactful programs to serve residents of all backgrounds—something Miramar has long championed.
“This award is a testament to our commitment to diversity and innovation—helping businesses of all backgrounds thrive and succeed,” said Mayor Wayne Messam. “The Miramar Business Academy reflects our city’s dedication to fostering inclusivity, entrepreneurship, and economic empowerment for all residents.”
Known for its vibrant and multicultural population, Miramar is one of South Florida’s most diverse cities, home to people from the Caribbean, Latin America, Africa, Asia, and beyond. That diversity is reflected in city programs like the MBA, which is designed to empower local entrepreneurs through education, mentorship, and community support.
One participant, a university student and small business owner, was able to earn four college credit hours after the MBA curriculum was approved by their university dean—a significant step that helped them meet graduation requirements. Another participant credited the program with having a long-lasting impact on his family’s livelihood: “The MBA program my wife Diana participated in made a huge positive impact on her business development—and we’re going three years strong now!”
City Manager Dr. Roy Virgin emphasized the program’s tangible results: “This is a real example of how our local programs can change lives. When education and entrepreneurship intersect, communities grow stronger.”
National League of Cities President Mayor Steve Patterson of Athens, Ohio, praised Miramar’s initiative. “Congratulations to the City of Miramar for being selected as one of this year’s winners of the NLC Cultural Diversity Award. This program provides a new and effective way to better serve residents and make them feel included and supported.”
The award was presented in March at the NLC’s 2025 Congressional City Conference in Washington, D.C.
For more information about the NLC Cultural Diversity Awards, visit www.nlc.org.
