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  • McDonald’s New Drinks Inspire Your Next Trip

    Spring has sprung, and you know what that means – vacation plans are officially on the brain! Whether you’re dreaming of a spontaneous road trip, a fun weekend with your besties, or a solo escape to an island paradise, McDonald’s has just launched a brand-new drink collection that might just be the inspiration you need for your next adventure.

    A Sip for Every Destination

    McDonald’s is rolling out six exciting new beverages designed to transport your taste buds. The collection features three crafted sodas: Dirty Dr Pepper®, Sprite® Berry Blast, and Orange Dream. Plus, there are three caffeinated refreshers to keep you energized: Strawberry Watermelon Refresher, Blackberry Passion Fruit Refresher, and Mango Pineapple Refresher.

    With such a variety, there’s truly something for everyone, no matter who you’re traveling with or what vibe you’re going for. Each drink is like a mini-vacation in a cup, promising to inspire your next dream destination.

    Big City Energy: Dirty Dr Pepper®

    If your crew thrives on vibrant energy and non-stop fun, the Dirty Dr Pepper® is your go-to. Imagine yourself exploring the lively streets of New Orleans, soaking up the sun in Miami, or experiencing the buzz of New York City. This bold drink, with its notes of vanilla and a creamy cold foam topping, perfectly captures that ‘big city’ vibe.

    All Roads Lead Home: Strawberry Watermelon Refresher

    For those cherished moments with your day ones, whether it’s a staycation or a cross-country road trip, the Strawberry Watermelon Refresher is your perfect travel buddy. Its familiar, comforting blend of strawberry and watermelon with a tangy lemonade base is ideal for fueling adventures, like a glamping trip in the Tennessee mountains or exploring the North Carolina hills.

    Chase the Chill: Sprite® Berry Blast

    Looking for a cooler, more serene escape? The Sprite® Berry Blast, with its iconic Sprite® flavor and blue raspberry notes topped with cold foam, might inspire an arctic getaway. Think crisp mountain air in Oregon’s Mount Hood or California’s Mammoth Mountain, or even hitting the slopes in Chile or Argentina for a truly breathtaking experience.

    Poolside Vibes Only: Blackberry Passion Fruit Refresher

    Picture this: lounging by the pool with your friends, good music playing, and a stunning sunset in view. The Blackberry Passion Fruit Refresher, with its delightful mix of blackberry and passion fruit flavors and freeze-dried dragon fruit, is the ultimate companion for an elevated staycation. Its gentle caffeine boost will keep the good times rolling.

    Where the Dream Takes You: Orange Dream

    History buffs and outdoor lovers, this one’s for you! The Orange Dream, a delightful fusion of Hi-C® Orange Lavaburst® and cold foam, offers a euphoric, citrusy finish. It’s the perfect sip to inspire journeys to historic sites, perhaps a Florida island, the Great Plains of Kansas, or the storied barracks of Texas, connecting you with the legacy of Black excellence.

    Tropical Escape: Mango Pineapple Refresher

    When all you need is to escape to a beach and feel the sun on your skin, the Mango Pineapple Refresher is your ticket. Infused with a caffeine boost and bursting with mango and pineapple flavors, plus strawberry popping boba, this lemonade-based drink will make any beach day feel like a luxurious island getaway. It’s the ultimate self-care activity.

    With summer on the horizon and these six fantastic new drinks available, there’s never been a better time to start planning your well-deserved PTO. Head to your local McDonald’s and discover which new beverage will inspire your next unforgettable trip!

    Which of McDonald’s new drinks are you most excited to try for your next getaway? Let us know in the comments below!

  • Vineyard Travel: More Than Wine, It’s Community

    Planning your next getaway? While some trips are all about adrenaline-pumping adventures and others focus on pure relaxation, there’s a special kind of travel that masterfully blends both: vineyard travel. It turns out that exploring wine country is about so much more than just sipping your favorite varietals. It’s a rich tapestry woven with incredible food, breathtaking ambiance, and a vibrant sense of community.

    The All-Encompassing Appeal of Wine Country

    With countless winemaking regions scattered across the globe, vineyard destinations offer something for every traveler. Imagine a luxurious spa retreat with your best friends in Napa Valley, a deeply romantic escape to a historic chateau in Bordeaux, or perhaps savoring a bold Syrah in Ethiopia’s stunning Great Rift Valley. No matter your travel style, wine country provides the perfect backdrop for relaxation, pampering, or simply soaking in an unforgettable atmosphere.

    But here’s a crucial point often overlooked: the vineyard experience is just as much about the incredible food as it is about the wine. It’s a holistic journey for the senses, where culinary delights complement the liquid artistry.

    Food, Wine, and the Magic of Connection

    Pulling up to a vineyard often means arriving at the ultimate communal dining experience. Whether you’re indulging in melt-in-your-mouth cheese and charcuterie boards or experiencing the artistry of Michelin-starred restaurants, the setting encourages connection. While sharing a table with new people might feel a bit unfamiliar at first, the universal language of great food and wine has an incredible way of bringing everyone together.

    This spirit of connection and discovery is beautifully captured in the upcoming romantic comedy, “You, Me & Tuscany,” hitting theaters on April 10. The film stars the talented Halle Bailey as Anna, an aspiring chef navigating life, love, and her passion in the kitchen. Produced by Will Packer, known for hits like “Girls Trip,” the movie promises a heartwarming tale set against the stunning backdrop of Tuscany’s historic villages and vineyards.

    Tuscany: A Perfect Setting for Romance and Flavor

    The film’s setting in Pienza and Monticchiello, Tuscany, is no accident. Pienza, hailed as the “Ideal City of Renaissance,” boasts magnificent palazzos, a picturesque cathedral, and rolling hills dotted with vineyards. Add in the undeniable charm of Regé-Jean Page as Anna’s love interest, and you have a recipe for pure cinematic magic. The movie promises to showcase mouth-watering food and drink sequences that will undoubtedly inspire viewers to plan their own winery getaway.

    “You, Me & Tuscany” truly encapsulates the enchanting essence of wine country—a place where delicious food, wonderful company, and beautiful scenery naturally foster togetherness. If the film leaves you craving a vineyard escape or simply a memorable dinner with friends, consider it your personal invitation to explore the magic of Tuscany.

    Are you inspired to plan a trip to wine country after reading this? Let us know your dream vineyard destination in the comments below!

  • Tuscan Food & Wine: A Cinematic Escape

    Imagine yourself stepping into a scene straight out of a romantic comedy – sun-drenched vineyards, charming villages, and the aroma of incredible food filling the air. That’s the magic of Tuscany, a region where culinary traditions are a way of life. Inspired by the upcoming film ‘You, Me & Tuscany,’ produced by Will Packer and starring Halle Bailey and Regé-Jean Page, we’re diving into five food and wine experiences that will transport you straight into a cinematic escape.

    Tuscany: More Than Just a Setting

    The film ‘You, Me & Tuscany’ captures the essence of this beloved Italian region, showcasing its breathtaking landscapes, delicious cuisine, and the effortless romance of village life. It follows a young chef who finds herself and potential love in the heart of Tuscany, proving that the destination is as central to the story as the characters themselves. This film celebrates Black love in a joyful, serene setting, making you want to grab your friends and book a flight.

    1. Osteria del Borgo: Sunset Views & Brunello

    Nestled in the historic hilltop town of Montepulciano, Osteria del Borgo offers more than just a meal; it’s an experience. Imagine enjoying handmade ravioli with pecorino and truffle or a classic Tuscan ribeye steak (Bistecca alla Fiorentina) on a terrace with panoramic views of the countryside. This is slow travel at its finest, especially when paired with a glass of the region’s famous Brunello di Montalcino. For the ultimate romantic moment, reserve a terrace table at sunset and watch the golden light paint the rolling vineyards.

    2. Olivina: Modern Italian Meets Tuscan Beauty

    Located within the luxurious Castelfalfi Resort, Olivina, the “gem of the sun,” offers a refined dining experience that blends modern Italian cuisine with the stunning Tuscan landscape. Surrounded by vineyards and ancient architecture, the restaurant celebrates regional traditions with elevated, seasonal dishes. Watch chefs at work in the open kitchen as they prepare handmade pastas, fresh seafood, and local meats, all paired with exquisite wines. The floor-to-ceiling windows and terrace seating provide breathtaking countryside views, perfect for lingering, wine-filled dinners.

    3. Trattoria Dall’Oste: The Legendary Bistecca alla Fiorentina

    For a truly cinematic steak dinner, head to Trattoria Dall’Oste in Florence. This spot is renowned for its Bistecca alla Fiorentina, a massive, perfectly charred T-bone steak made from tender Chianina beef. Cooked simply over an open flame and seasoned with olive oil, salt, and herbs, it’s a bold, flavorful meal that feels like it’s pulled from a movie scene. Paired with a robust Tuscan red like Brunello or Chianti, it’s an unforgettable taste of Tuscan dining.

    4. All’Antico Vinaio: The Ultimate Street Food Sandwich

    Not all unforgettable meals require a formal setting. All’Antico Vinaio in Florence offers a taste of authentic Tuscan life with its legendary schiacciata sandwiches. These oversized focaccia creations are piled high with fresh ingredients like creamy burrata, salty prosciutto, truffle spreads, and local cured meats. Grab a sandwich to go and savor it while exploring Florence’s historic streets or relaxing in a sunny piazza. It’s a simple, lively, and delicious adventure – try ‘La Favolosa’ for a standout option.

    5. Castello Banfi Winery: A Luxurious Vineyard Experience

    For a truly enchanting wine experience, visit Castello Banfi in Montalcino. This Michelin-starred luxury estate is famous for its Brunello di Montalcino. Tour the sprawling vineyards, explore ancient wine cellars, and indulge in curated tastings. The estate beautifully blends history with modern luxury, offering breathtaking countryside views and an atmosphere that encourages you to linger. It’s the perfect place for a romantic, wine-infused getaway that feels like stepping into a dream.

    Rediscover Yourself in Tuscany

    Tuscany offers more than just stunning scenery and delicious food; it provides a chance for rediscovery and joy. Whether you’re enjoying a vineyard picnic, savoring a hearty steak, or grabbing a quick, flavorful sandwich, the Tuscan lifestyle invites you to slow down, indulge, and embrace the moment. ‘You, Me & Tuscany’ arrives in theaters on April 10, 2026, offering a perfect cinematic inspiration for your own Tuscan adventure.

    Which of these Tuscan food and wine experiences are you adding to your bucket list? Let us know in the comments below!

  • Disney’s Creative Future at AfroTech 2025

    Get ready for a glimpse into the future! At AfroTech 2025 in Houston, The Walt Disney Company made a powerful statement: the next wave of storytelling is being built at the intersection of boundless imagination and cutting-edge technology. Disney’s technologists and creators offered attendees an exclusive look at how the company is constantly pushing creative and technical boundaries.

    Where Engineering Meets Magic

    Leaders from Walt Disney Imagineering Research & Development, Jonathan Becker and Lanny Smoot, took the stage to reveal the magic behind Disney Experiences. Their session, ‘An Inside Look at Imagineering,’ highlighted the crucial role of curiosity, experimentation, and cross-disciplinary collaboration in bringing beloved attractions to life. It’s a testament to how creativity and engineering are fused to shape the future of Disney’s immersive worlds.

    Anastasia Ali, VP of Inclusive Marketing & Audience Growth at Disney, shared her enthusiasm for the event. “Being at AfroTech with creators and leaders who recognize that technology and storytelling are inseparable was inspiring,” she said. “We were proud to showcase our team and share how Disney continues to innovate across every corner of our businesses.”

    A Sneak Peek at Zootopia 2 and Beyond

    The excitement peaked when Marlon West, VFX Supervisor at Walt Disney Animation Studios, gave attendees a special behind-the-scenes look at the highly anticipated film, Zootopia 2. With credits on blockbusters like The Lion King, Moana, and Encanto, West shared how technological advancements have been instrumental in his career, inspiring many to envision their own futures in animation and filmmaking.

    50 Years of Visual Effects with ILM

    Industrial Light & Magic (ILM), the legendary studio behind countless iconic movie visuals, kicked off Disney’s presence with ‘Behind the Magic: 50 Years of Visual Effects.’ Visual Effects Supervisor Andrew Roberts traced ILM’s journey from its groundbreaking beginnings to its current status as a leader in visual effects. The session underscored ILM’s ongoing commitment to nurturing top talent in VFX, computer graphics, and production technology.

    ESPN: Transforming Sports Storytelling

    At the Talent Connection Mixer, leaders from ESPN, including The Kid Mero, Mary Almonte (Director, Andscape), Kevin Lopes (Vice President, Sports Business Development), and Marquis Daisy (Senior Director and Producer, ESPN Films), discussed how technology is revolutionizing sports narratives. They shared insights into how ESPN brings new dimensions to both live broadcasts and long-form sports content. For those seeking career opportunities, this mixer offered a direct connection with the teams shaping the future of sports entertainment.

    Throughout AfroTech 2025, a consistent theme emerged: Disney’s unwavering dedication to merging creative vision with technological innovation. From crafting animated worlds and advancing production tools to building immersive attractions and reimagining sports coverage, Disney remains a prime destination for visionaries eager to define what’s next.

    Are you inspired by Disney’s innovative approach? Explore career opportunities and learn more about shaping the future of entertainment at www.disneycareers.com/. What aspect of Disney’s creative future excites you the most? Share your thoughts below!

  • Mars Snacking Blends Tech and Treats at AfroTech

    Who knew tech and candy could be such a sweet combination? At AfroTech 2025, Mars Snacking, the powerhouse behind beloved treats like M&M’S, SKITTLES, EXTRA GUM, and SNICKERS, proved that innovation is brewing in the world of confections. They demonstrated how they’re moving beyond traditional marketing to connect with today’s consumers.

    Marketing to the Modern Consumer

    Gabrielle Wesley, the CMO of Mars North America, shared some fascinating insights on the Blavity Stage about reaching new audiences, particularly Gen Z and Gen Alpha. She highlighted a key shift: “They don’t necessarily trust brands, they trust people.” This means influencer and creator culture is paramount, as these generations grew up trusting recommendations from people they know, rather than traditional brand jingles.

    Understanding these evolving shopping habits is crucial. Mars Snacking is focusing on building genuine connections by leveraging the trust that creators have built with their followers. It’s all about authenticity in today’s market.

    Immersive Experiences and VR

    Attendees at AfroTech weren’t just listening; they were experiencing the brands firsthand! There were vibrant displays where visitors could interact with the Skittles rainbow, step into an immersive photo experience with Extra Gum, discover their spirit M&M’S character, and even express their “hangry” feelings at the Snickers booth.

    But Mars Snacking also delved deep into the tech. In a session titled “From Clicks to Candy: Using VR to Redefine UX,” executives showcased how integrating Virtual Reality (VR) helps them understand shopper behavior and create better connections to their products. This tech-forward approach is vital for understanding consumers whose relationship with brands changes significantly with each generation.

    Exploring Career Opportunities

    Beyond the treats and tech, AfroTech also offered a glimpse into career possibilities with Mars. With over 150,000 employees globally and a strong commitment to equal opportunity, the company presented itself as an attractive place to work. Visiting the Mars activation was, as the article puts it, “sweet indeed.”

    Whether it’s about earning consumer trust, navigating the challenges of e-commerce, or exploring cutting-edge technology, Mars Snacking and AfroTech 25 certainly explored a delicious range of possibilities together.

    What do you think about brands using VR and influencer marketing? Share your thoughts on this evolving landscape in the comments below!

  • AfroTech 2025: A Celebration of Culture & Connection

    Wow, AfroTech 2025 was an absolute VIBE! From the inspiring mainstage talks to those spontaneous hallway meetups, this conference was all about forging connections and celebrating Black culture. It was a full week dedicated to learning, networking, and leveling up alongside Black innovators from around the globe. And when the official sessions wrapped up? The energy didn’t fade; it just transformed into pure celebration.

    Three Nights of Epic Festivities

    This year, with DELEÓN Tequila as the official tequila partner, AfroTech hosted three incredible events over three unforgettable nights in three distinct venues. Over 3,000 guests showed up and showed out, making each night a blockbuster! It was a perfect blend of professional development and pure, unadulterated fun.

    Wednesday: A Nostalgic R&B House Party

    Kicking things off on Wednesday, the Blavity House Party treated attendees to a nostalgic journey through R&B. Five top-tier DJs spun classic and contemporary hits, while guests, dressed in their flyest ‘fits, sipped on DELEÓN cocktails under the stars. It was the perfect way to ease into the conference week with feel-good music and great company.

    Friday: The Ultimate Block Party Experience

    If a house party is great, a block party is even better! Friday’s Blavity Block Party delivered an electrifying mix of community, music, and incredible vibes. DELEÓN Tequila kept the party going with a dedicated bar serving up cocktail excellence, featuring crowd favorites like the DELEÓN 75 and the Hot Honey Margarita. You could practically taste the magic!

    The music kept the crowd moving, with sets from renowned DJs and live performances by R&B crooner RL (of Next) and rapper O.T. Genasis. The night culminated with a show-stopping closing set from New Orleans legend Juvenile, who had the audience transported back to the late ’90s and early 2000s. Talk about a throwback!

    A Halloween Surprise: Juvenile’s Doppelgänger

    Adding an extra layer of fun, since it was Halloween, one clever AfroTech employee, Aaron Doman, showed up dressed as Juvenile himself! When the original Hot Boy spotted his doppelgänger, he brought Aaron on stage for an unforgettable moment. As Doman put it, “Moments like this remind me how culture brings us together—the music, the style, the vibe, the people.”

    Saturday: A Genre-Bending House Party Mashup

    The cultural celebration continued on Saturday with the Blavity House Party crew teaming up with Atlanta’s Mashup Sessions. This musically immersive experience blended genres and styles for a truly unique and fun evening, wrapping up AfroTech 2025 on the highest possible note. It was a perfect celebration of everything built, learned, and experienced that week.

    The DELEÓN 75 Cocktail Recipe

    Want to recreate some of that AfroTech magic at home? Here’s how to make the popular DELEÓN 75 cocktail:

    1. 1 oz DELEÓN Reposado
    2. 0.5 oz Agave Syrup
    3. 0.5 oz Fresh lemon juice
    4. 0.5 oz Champagne or Prosecco

    Instructions: Combine all ingredients except the Champagne in a shaker. Fill with ice and shake vigorously. Strain into a wine glass, top with Champagne, and give a gentle stir. Garnish with lemon and mint. Enjoy!

    The energy at AfroTech 2025 was truly unmatched, from the insightful sessions to the vibrant late-night gatherings. And if you thought this year was amazing, just wait for the 10th anniversary next year – it’s only going to get better! Start planning your trip now!

    What was your favorite moment from AfroTech 2025? Share your experiences in the comments below!

  • Charlotte, NC: Your Winter Travel Hotspot

    Feeling that winter chill creeping in and worried your travel bug might hibernate? Think again! Charlotte, North Carolina, affectionately known as the Queen City, proves that the colder months are the perfect time to explore. Far from quieting down, Charlotte truly shines during winter, offering a vibrant mix of soulful culture and festive cheer that will keep your wanderlust burning bright.

    1. Embrace the Community Spirit with Winter Festivals

    Charlotte knows how to celebrate the season with community-focused events that cater to everyone. If you’re looking for family fun or a single event to satisfy diverse interests, there’s a winter festival waiting for you. Carowinds’ WinterFest, running from late November to early January, offers theme park thrills, dining, and live entertainment – a perfect antidote to cabin fever on a multi-generational trip.

    As Carowinds winds down, the fun at Truist Park revs up with the Light The Knights Festival. Running concurrently, this event features a holiday market, dazzling lights, and a taste of winter sports with snow tubing, ice skating, and hockey. For a truly immersive light experience, the Charlotte Motor Speedway transforms into Speedway Christmas, boasting over 5 million lights on a four-mile course, complete with Santa’s Workshop and a race car selfie station. For a more intimate light show, check out the 4th Annual Carolina Holiday Spectacular at Ballantyne’s Backyard.

    2. Indulge in Indoor Entertainment and Live Performances

    Prefer to stay warm indoors? Charlotte has you covered with a fantastic lineup of holiday shows and live music. The Belk Theater in Uptown Charlotte hosts the Charlotte Ballet’s classic rendition of “The Nutcracker,” a timeless holiday tradition. For a more contemporary feel, catch “Soulful Noel” at Booth Playhouse in late December.

    If you’re looking for something more spontaneous, the city’s jazz scene is alive and well. Venues like Middle C Jazz, The Jazz Room, and Eighty Eights offer nights filled with impromptu jam sessions and talented local musicians, providing the perfect soundtrack to a cozy winter evening.

    3. Sip and Savor at Themed Holiday Bars and Events

    What’s the holiday season without a festive drink? Charlotte’s bar scene gets a major upgrade in winter with a variety of themed pop-ups designed to add extra cheer. Supperland Speakeasy hosts multiple dinner pairing events throughout the season, bringing back the charm of old-school supper clubs. For a unique rooftop experience, Merchant & Trade offers private, heated igloos perfect for curating a special dinner for up to 10 guests.

    The “Miracle” pop-up bar at BackStage Lounge, starting in late November, transforms the neighborhood speakeasy into a holiday wonderland. And for those who enjoy a bit of festive mischief, Humbug offers a playful twist by celebrating Krampus instead of Santa Claus, adding a touch of the unconventional to your holiday spirits.

    4. Shop Local and Discover Unique Gifts

    The holiday season is synonymous with shopping, and Charlotte excels at connecting shoppers with local creators and handcrafted treasures. The seasonal VTGCLT Market (Vintage Charlotte) is a prime example, serving as an incubator for small businesses and fostering a strong sense of community among vendors. It’s the perfect place to find one-of-a-kind items you won’t see anywhere else.

    Beyond VTGCLT, explore other fantastic shopping experiences like the Black-Owned Holiday Marketplace, Mistletoe Market at Camp North End, and the Southern Christmas Show. For those seeking luxury brands, SouthPark Mall is home to high-end designers like Alexander McQueen, Balenciaga, and Gucci. Charlotte truly offers a diverse shopping landscape, ensuring you can find the perfect gift for everyone on your list.

    Ready to plan your Southern Winter Wonderland escape? Visit charlottesgotalot.com for more inspiration and start packing for your trip to the Queen City this winter!

  • STEM Powers L’Oréal’s Inclusive Beauty Vision

    When you think of beauty, you might imagine vibrant lipsticks or serums that promise glowing skin. While aesthetics and culture are certainly part of the beauty world, the real revolution is happening behind the scenes, powered by science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). Companies like L’Oréal Groupe are proving that innovation in beauty goes far beyond what meets the eye.

    The Future of Beauty is Tech-Driven

    Forget just makeup and skincare; the future of beauty is being shaped by cutting-edge technology. Think AI-powered tools that find your perfect foundation shade, lab-created molecules designed to transform your skin, and personalized haircare solutions tailored to your unique curl pattern. These aren’t just products; they’re revolutionary advancements.

    What’s truly inspiring is that the minds behind these breakthroughs—the engineers, data scientists, and innovation strategists—are increasingly diverse. This means the future of beauty is not only innovative but also more representative of the global consumers it serves.

    AfroTech Conference 2025: A Panel on Inclusion

    At the upcoming AfroTech Conference 2025, L’Oréal Groupe is hosting a crucial panel discussion titled, “How Personal Experience and Expertise is Shaping the Future of Beauty at L’Oréal.” This session will dive deep into how diverse STEM talent is building inclusive solutions for over a billion consumers worldwide.

    The discussion will go beyond just skin tones and curl patterns, exploring the algorithms, tech-driven tools, and future beauty innovations where inclusion is a core component. It’s about creating space for culturally diverse groups to thrive in both the tech and beauty sectors.

    Meet the Innovators

    The panel will feature influential leaders from L’Oréal, including:

    • Dominic Akerele, Director of Tech Innovation, Augmented Beauty at L’Oréal Groupe: A Brooklyn-based developer passionate about design, tech creation, and sustainable water management.
    • Christina Bishop, Director of Scientific Valorization, US Hair Care at L’Oréal Groupe: A scientist who leads strategy for hair and scalp innovations, moving from bench formulation to co-creating successful product lines.

    These leaders exemplify how Black brilliance in STEM is not just welcomed but essential to L’Oréal Groupe’s vision.

    Why This Matters: Inclusivity as a Competitive Edge

    In today’s world, technology and self-expression are intertwined. For L’Oréal Groupe, inclusivity isn’t just a value; it’s a strategic advantage. By investing in AI, data science, and digital innovation with diverse voices at the table, they are creating better, more relevant solutions.

    This panel will highlight how personal experiences, particularly Black lived experiences, are directly influencing product development and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in tech-driven beauty. It’s also a chance to learn about the exciting career paths available at L’Oréal for those passionate about making an impact.

    Are you interested in the intersection of STEM and beauty? What are your thoughts on L’Oréal’s approach to inclusive innovation? Share your insights in the comments below!

  • Bayer’s 7 Resume Tips for AfroTech Success

    Stepping into AfroTech is like entering a hub of innovation, energy, and undeniable Black excellence. It’s more than just a conference; it’s a movement where ambition meets opportunity. To help you seize those moments, Bayer, a global life sciences leader, is teaming up with Howard University to offer crucial resume guidance. Whether you’re hunting for a job, an internship, or aiming to elevate your personal brand, making sure your resume shines is key. Here are seven tips from Bayer to get your resume AfroTech-ready and approach every opportunity with confidence.

    1. Write Like You Mean It: Show Your Impact

    Your resume shouldn’t just be a list of duties; it should showcase the impact you’ve made. Use strong, action-oriented verbs that clearly convey your contributions. Instead of simply stating “Managed a project,” try something more powerful like, “Led a project that cut delivery time by 25%.” Ensure every line on your resume adds value and tells a compelling story of your achievements.

    2. Keep It Short and Powerful: Respect the Reviewer’s Time

    Recruiters often have limited time—around 10 minutes—to review each resume. Get straight to the most important information. Aim for a one-page resume if possible, with a clean, easy-to-read layout. Use plenty of white space and clear section headings. This isn’t the place for lengthy backstories; keep it concise and impactful.

    3. Let Your Goals Be Known: Frame Your Future

    Are you targeting a specific role or making a career pivot into tech? Make sure your resume reflects that. Include a brief professional summary at the top that clearly outlines your career aspirations. Your resume should guide the reader toward your future ambitions, not just serve as a historical recap of your past experiences.

    4. Show You Know How to Work With People: Highlight Collaboration

    Success in tech often hinges on teamwork. Recruiters want to see that you’re not only skilled but also a valuable team player. Be sure to highlight leadership roles, collaborative projects, and instances where you’ve successfully worked with others. Demonstrating your ability to add value to a team is crucial.

    5. Make It Easy to Skim: Clarity is Key

    Nobody wants to read a dense wall of text, especially at a busy conference. Use bullet points, bold section headers, and consistent formatting to make your key qualifications stand out. If your value proposition is clear at a glance, you’ve succeeded in making your resume scannable and effective.

    6. Treat the Review Like a Conversation: Ask Thoughtful Questions

    That 10-minute resume review at The Yard is a valuable opportunity for face time with potential career influencers. Come prepared with one or two insightful questions, such as “What do recruiters prioritize in early-career candidates?” or “How can I best position my skills for growth opportunities?” Make every moment count.

    7. Bring It Every Way Possible: Be Prepared for Any Connection

    AfroTech moves at a rapid pace. Ensure you have several printed copies of your resume on quality paper, neatly organized in a folder or binder. Also, have a digital PDF version ready to share. Consider including a QR code that links directly to your resume or LinkedIn profile for easy, on-the-spot connections with recruiters.

    The Bottom Line: Preparation Meets Possibility

    AfroTech is the place where preparation truly meets possibility. The Yard, powered by Bayer and Howard University, offers a unique chance to transform casual conversations into job offers and brief introductions into lasting opportunities. By preparing your resume in advance, you can focus less on scrambling and more on connecting, learning, and saying ‘yes’ to your next big step. Stay ready, so you don’t have to get ready!

    Are you attending AfroTech? Which of these resume tips will you be implementing? Share your thoughts and any additional tips in the comments below!

  • Estée Lauder’s Color Capture: AI for Perfect Foundation

    Get ready for a beauty tech revolution! Estée Lauder is bringing its innovative Color Capture technology to AfroTech, promising to transform how we find the perfect foundation shade. This isn’t just about numbers; it’s about blending cutting-edge science with the artistry of makeup to ensure inclusivity and precision for everyone.

    Color Capture: Science Meets Inclusivity

    At the heart of this innovation is Color Capture, a system that goes beyond the traditional makeup counter experience. Using a professional spectrophotometer—essentially a high-tech color scanner—the technology measures skin tones with incredible accuracy. It then instantly recommends the ideal foundation match from Estée Lauder’s extensive range of over 60 Double Wear shades.

    Ashani Davidson, Global Makeup Product Development at Estée Lauder, highlighted the importance of this approach: “Through the use of advanced color capture technology, we are able to ground shade development in both science and inclusivity. This ensures our shade portfolio continues to evolve with the right match for diverse skin tones and undertones worldwide.”

    Algorithm-Driven Precision, Human Artistry

    The choice to debut Color Capture at AfroTech is a strategic one, recognizing the importance of reaching diverse communities. This technology masterfully combines algorithm-driven precision with the understanding that how a foundation looks and feels on real skin is paramount. Estée Lauder scientists dedicated significant effort to ensure the tool is both innovative and inclusive.

    By collecting data from thousands of individuals across five continents, Color Capture maps real-world skin measurements to precise foundation shades. Garrett Vanderover, Research & Development Fellow at Estée Lauder, emphasized the rigor behind this: “Color equity demands rigor. By pairing high-quality measurements with an algorithm trained on a large, diverse dataset—and by validating results on real skin—we’re narrowing shade gaps and improving match fidelity for more people.”

    Experience Color Capture Live at AfroTech

    Attendees at the AfroTech Conference can experience Color Capture firsthand at Booth #615. Estée Lauder color scientists will be on-site, using the spectrophotometer to record non-identifying skin measurements. These values will then be processed through the brand’s algorithm to provide a personalized shade recommendation across the Double Wear line, considering warm, cool, and neutral undertones.

    The process is consent-based, with measurements handled according to Estée Lauder’s strict research and privacy standards. Participants will receive their recommended shade(s) and undertone guidance, with the option to opt out of data retention. This integrated approach ensures that the science of color aligns perfectly with the lived experience of wearing foundation.

    • Uses a professional spectrophotometer for precise skin tone measurement.
    • Employs an algorithm trained on diverse, real-world skin data.
    • Provides instant foundation shade recommendations across 60+ Double Wear shades.
    • Focuses on inclusivity, catering to warm, cool, and neutral undertones.
    • Combines scientific rigor with the artistry of makeup application.

    Are you excited about the future of beauty tech? Visit Estée Lauder at AfroTech to experience Color Capture yourself! What are your thoughts on AI in the beauty industry? Share them in the comments below!