Talk Dat Talk | Your Black Celebrity Gossip, Culture News & Trending Tea

Category: Sports and Legal Drama

  • Tulsa Tech Week Launches, Highlighting Black Innovation

    Brooklyn native and tech founder Tariqua ‘Tai’ Nehisi is bringing her passion for innovation to Tulsa, Oklahoma. Having launched Organizely, an AI-powered workplace platform, Nehisi moved to Tulsa in 2023 through the Tulsa Remote program, drawn by the city’s burgeoning tech scene and its commitment to rebuilding Black Wall Street through technology.

    From Brooklyn to Tulsa’s Tech Scene

    Nehisi’s journey to Tulsa began with the Tulsa Remote program, which offers a $10,000 grant to remote workers relocating to the city. She saw immense potential in Tulsa, not only for her business but also for contributing to the city’s efforts to support Black and brown-focused tech companies. “I came at a time when there was a really great concerted effort to support the rebuilding of Black Wall Street through a technical lens,” Nehisi told AFROTECH™.

    While Tulsa has received significant investment, including $51 million from the Biden Administration’s Tech Hubs Program and a matching $49 million from the local philanthropic community, Nehisi noticed a lack of a central hub to showcase this growth. This observation inspired her to create Tulsa Tech Week.

    Making Tech Accessible and Visible

    Set to launch on September 22, Tulsa Tech Week aims to make connecting with the city’s tech ecosystem more accessible. The week-long event will feature sessions on crucial topics like leveraging AI for alternative capital, inclusive design principles, startup legal and financial expectations, and fundraising strategies with Silicon Valley Bank.

    Nehisi emphasized the importance of exposure and representation for everyone, from children to elders, and from the tech-averse to the tech-savvy. “The people… need to have exposure. Representation is key… You need to discover. But you have to know that there is so much wealth here,” she stated.

    Highlighting Tulsa’s Black Experience and Tech Talent

    Tulsa Tech Week boasts over 50 partners, including Langston University, Oklahoma’s only HBCU. This collaboration will amplify healthcare majors and highlight the “voices of Black people in Tulsa from the collegiate perspective.” Nehisi is particularly keen on showcasing the unique Black experience in Tulsa, acknowledging the city’s history with all-Black towns and its significance for Black Americans in Oklahoma.

    “I am not the voice of it. I am a voice,” Nehisi clarified, aiming to amplify the collective identity of Black Americans in Tulsa. Tulsa Tech Week will run from September 22-27, with registration open on the event’s website.

    Are you excited about Tulsa Tech Week? What tech trends are you most looking forward to learning about? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

  • Alabama Hornets: Key Players to Watch in 2025

    The Alabama Hornets are looking to build on their 7-5 record from the 2024 season under Head Coach Eddie Robinson. While sportsbooks might not favor them for championships, the team boasts talented players poised to make a significant impact in 2025. Let’s take a look at who to watch as the Hornets aim to improve their standing in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC).

    Coach Robinson’s Vision and Key Leaders

    Head Coach Eddie Robinson, now entering his third season since 2022, brings a decade of NFL playing experience to the sidelines. While his coaching experience is still developing, consistency and leadership on the field will be crucial for the Hornets’ progress. Robinson will rely on key players to step up and guide the team.

    The team’s success often hinges on protecting the quarterback and having playmakers who can change the game. With that in mind, several players are set to be under the spotlight this season.

    Offensive Standouts: Daniels and Brody

    On the offensive side, keep an eye on offensive lineman Desmond Daniels. Promoted to the main roster for 2025, Daniels had a strong 2024 campaign, starting 11 of 12 games for the second-tier unit. His performance, including a high overall grade, suggests he’s ready for the step up to the first team.

    Daniels joins safety Keane Lewis as key additions to the first team, both expected to make a significant difference. Crucially, the quarterback position will be a focal point. Andrew Brody is slated to be the starting quarterback. After suffering a season-ending injury in the first game of 2024, Brody is eager to prove his potential as an NFL prospect. He’ll face competition from fellow QBs Te’Sean Smoot and Kareem Kaye.

    The Importance of Special Teams: Brandon Gilliam

    Kickers often play a pivotal role, and Brandon Gilliam is the Hornets’ starting kicker for 2025. Last season, Gilliam successfully made 19 out of 27 field goal attempts and earned Specialist of the Week honors twice. His ability to consistently convert crucial points will be vital for the team’s success.

    Other Players to Watch

    Beyond these key players, several others are expected to shine. Wide receivers Bravis Cave, Ajai Harrell, and Jalen Jones should be significant contributors on offense. On the running back front, Jamarie Hostzclaw, Karl Ligon, and DJ Brown will be players to watch closely.

    The Alabama Hornets’ primary goal for 2025 is to build upon last season’s steady 7-5 record. With a roster full of promising talent, the team is looking for these players to confirm their potential and emerge as difference-makers throughout the season.

    Who are you most excited to watch for the Alabama Hornets in 2025? Share your predictions in the comments below!