Quilen Blackwell, Whose Nonprofit ‘Farm-To-Vase’ Flower Shop Employs At-Risk Youth, Is CNN’s Hero Of The Year

Quilen Blackwell, a 40-year-old minister and social entrepreneur, has been named the 2025 CNN Hero of the Year. His nonprofit, Southside Blooms, is recognized for its innovative approach to transforming vacant lots on Chicago's South Side into flower farms, providing employment opportunities for at-risk youth.