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Tag: Events

  • She Did That. Holiday Bazaar Returns to NYC

    Get ready, New York City! The “She Did That. Holiday Bazaar,” a premier event celebrating Black women entrepreneurs, is making its highly anticipated return to Industry City. Mark your calendars for Saturday, December 6, 2025, for a day filled with purposeful shopping, community building, and holiday cheer.

    A Celebration of Black Entrepreneurship

    Now in its ninth year, the She Did That. Holiday Bazaar, powered by MadameNoire, has become a cornerstone event where culture, creativity, and purpose beautifully collide. This year’s event will feature over 50 Black women-owned brands, showcasing a diverse range of products in beauty, wellness, fashion, home goods, and lifestyle.

    It’s more than just a marketplace; it’s an opportunity for attendees to shop with intention, directly supporting the founders who are actively shaping our communities and driving the economy. This is your chance to discover unique gifts while investing in the brilliance of Black women in business.

    Giving Back: Partnering with One Love Community Fridge

    In the true spirit of the holiday season, She Did That. is teaming up with One Love Community Fridge, a Brooklyn-based nonprofit dedicated to combating hunger and food insecurity. Attendees will have the chance to contribute to One Love’s mission, helping to ensure that everyone has access to nutritious meals, especially during these challenging times.

    This event has always been about showing up for one another – as entrepreneurs, creatives, and community members. Partnering with One Love Community Fridge allows us to extend that spirit of care beyond the walls of Industry City and be of service to those in need during these challenging times. — Renae Bluitt, Founder and Executive Producer of She Did That.

    Introducing the ‘He Did That. Marketplace’

    Returning this year is the “He Did That. Marketplace,” powered by The Black Men Can. This initiative, founded by Dr. Brandon Frame, celebrates, educates, and uplifts men and boys of color. The marketplace will highlight an inspiring selection of Black men-owned brands, further emphasizing the event’s commitment to collective empowerment and economic inclusion for all.

    While the day promises a festive atmosphere with music and opportunities for meaningful connections, its core purpose remains focused on community care and conscious commerce. It’s a powerful reminder that every purchase matters and every act of support contributes to a vision of shared abundance.

    Ready to shop with purpose and support incredible Black entrepreneurs? Get your tickets now at shedidthatholiday25.eventbrite.com! What are you most excited to find at the bazaar? Let us know in the comments!

  • Tené Nícole’s Pow(H)er Experience Fuels Women’s Wealth

    Get ready, New York City! Tené Nícole’s Support Your Girlfriends agency is set to host its seventh annual Pow(H)er Experience, a full-day event dedicated to empowering women across all industries. This year’s event promises to be an immersive journey focused on unlocking potential, building businesses, and cultivating wealth, welcoming both women and men to tap into their inner pow(H)er.

    A Day of Empowerment and Growth

    Scheduled for Wednesday, November 19, at the Jay Conference in New York City, the Pow(H)er Experience will feature four distinct tracks designed to foster personal and professional development. Attendees can expect substantive sessions covering goal setting, business strategy, and wealth creation. With support from partners like Grow with Google, Chase, and BLACK ENTERPRISE, the agenda includes crucial topics such as monetizing creative talents, integrating AI, and prioritizing mental health.

    The event emphasizes revolutionizing women’s wellness and career trajectories, encouraging diverse trailblazers to reconnect with their aspirations and strengthen their networks. The day will culminate in an inspiring Celebrity Fireside Chat, moderated by Tené Nícole founder Nikkia McClain, featuring notable panelists like Dr. Yolanda Ragland, reality TV personality Guerdy Abraira, Yandy Smith Harris, and Tamika D. Mallory.

    Celebrating Trailblazers with the ‘Midnight Bloom’ Gala

    The festivities continue the following day, November 20, at the Dream Hotel Downtown NY, starting at 6 p.m. with the ‘Midnight Bloom’ Awards Dinner and Gala. This special evening will honor women change-makers who are ‘unapologetically HER’ in their respective fields, spanning social justice, fashion, and beauty. Honorees include anti-gun violence advocate Erica Ford (Social Justice), media personality Angela Wright (Community), former Wall Street analyst Ashley Fox (Finance), and Karen Mitchell, CEO of True Indian Hair, recognized for her entrepreneurial success in building an eight-figure empire.

    This year’s Pow(H)er Experience aims to expand its community by championing diverse leaders and fostering lasting impact. Beyond dynamic workshops and panels, the event offers financial coaching and wellness conversations, providing attendees with a holistic approach to personal and professional renewal. Registration for both the Experience and the Awards Gala is currently open, inviting everyone to be part of this empowering movement.

    Are you planning to attend the Pow(H)er Experience or Awards Gala? What are you most looking forward to? Share your excitement in the comments below!

  • Pharrell’s Black Ambition Hosts Demo Day for Entrepreneurs

    Get ready, Miami! Pharrell Williams’ Black Ambition initiative is gearing up for its fifth annual Demo Day, a vibrant two-day event dedicated to celebrating and empowering the next generation of Black and Brown entrepreneurs. This isn’t just about showcasing talent; it’s about providing crucial funding and spotlighting the innovators who are set to reshape their industries.

    A Platform for Visionaries

    Starting November 14th, the festivities will bring together a dynamic group of founders, visionaries, industry icons, and investors. The core mission? To connect emerging talent with the resources and opportunities they need to thrive. Black Ambition aims to bridge the gap in funding and visibility that often hinders underrepresented entrepreneurs.

    This year’s Demo Day will also feature the awarding of the 2025 Black Ambition Prize. With nearly 2,500 entrepreneurial applicants vying for recognition, 25 finalists have been selected to receive a share of over $1 million in funding. The top prize winner will take home $100,000, while 19 other finalists will receive $50,000 each. Additionally, five HBCU Pre-Accelerator winners will be awarded $20,000 apiece, and a People’s Choice Award winner will receive $25,000.

    Inspiring Conversations and Masterclasses

    Day one of the event, hosted by comedian Jay Pharoah, will include exciting founder showcases and spotlight previous winners from the Black Ambition program. A highlight will be a fireside chat featuring Pharrell Williams himself and Mellody Hobson, President and Co-CEO of Ariel Investments, offering invaluable insights.

    The following day, the Fundable Founders Forum will offer masterclass experiences designed to connect and uplift this network of thinkers and founders. Attendees will gain deeper insights into the journeys of past Black Ambition prize winners and learn strategies for growth and success.

    Pharrell’s Vision: Talent Beyond Potential

    Pharrell Williams shared his passion for the initiative, emphasizing the untapped brilliance within underrepresented communities. ‘There’s so much brilliance out there that never gets seen,’ he stated in a press release. ‘So many ideas that could change the world if they just had a chance. That’s why we built Black Ambition — to make sure talent doesn’t stop at potential. It has the chance to be seen, funded, and believed in. It’s about turning vision into reality, and making opportunity something everyone can touch.’

    Felecia Hatcher, CEO of Black Ambition, added, ‘Access changes everything. Five years proves that our impact is real, but the future demands more. More scale…More courage…More investment in founders who are rewriting what’s possible. In this climate, scaling isn’t just growth, it’s survival, power, and legacy.’

    Are you an entrepreneur looking for support and funding? Learn more about Black Ambition and register for Demo Day at The Sacred Space Miami! What are your thoughts on initiatives like Black Ambition that aim to diversify entrepreneurship? Share your insights in the comments below!

  • HBCU First LOOK Fest Honors Coogler, Whitfield, Martin

    Get ready for an incredible celebration of Black storytelling and creativity! The HBCU First LOOK Film Festival is making its highly anticipated return to Howard University from November 6th to 8th. This three-day event is all about spotlighting emerging talent and honoring established leaders in film, television, and digital media.

    Honoring Trailblazers and Future Storytellers

    This year’s festival, themed “Elevate Future Storytellers,” is particularly exciting because it will honor some major names in Hollywood: filmmaker Ryan Coogler, legendary actress Lynn Whitfield, and the dynamic actress-producer Marsai Martin. Their involvement underscores the festival’s commitment to creating vital pathways for HBCU students aiming for careers in the entertainment industry.

    Ryan Coogler, the visionary behind blockbusters like “Black Panther” and “Creed,” will receive the inaugural “I Aspire Global Impact Award.” Lynn Whitfield, an Emmy-winning icon known for her powerful performances in “Greenleaf” and “Eve’s Bayou,” will be recognized for her lasting impact on storytelling. And Marsai Martin, serving as this year’s Creative Ambassador, perfectly represents the new wave of talent using their platforms, like her production company Genius Productions, to amplify authentic Black voices.

    Empowering the Next Generation of Creatives

    Beyond the star power, the festival is packed with opportunities for students. Throughout the weekend, attendees can participate in masterclasses, film screenings, and crucial networking events designed to boost the presence of HBCU graduates in entertainment and tech. Imagine learning directly from industry pros!

    Workshops will cover everything from acting and directing to producing, artificial intelligence in media, and digital storytelling. Plus, panels featuring casting directors, producers, and executives from major studios will offer invaluable insights into breaking into the industry. For students from institutions like Spelman, Morehouse, and Clark Atlanta University, this is a golden opportunity to connect academic talent with professional doors.

    Strengthening HBCU’s Role in the Creative Industry

    The return of the HBCU First LOOK Film Festival further cements Howard University’s status as a hub for creativity within the HBCU landscape. Events like these are more than just showcases; they are powerful catalysts for visibility, fostering partnerships, and securing future funding that strengthens the educational and career pipelines for students.

    Organizers are committed to making this festival a sustainable platform that continues to grow, amplify HBCU voices, and expand opportunities for aspiring filmmakers. It truly represents the perfect blend of culture, education, and real-world impact, positioning HBCUs as essential incubators for innovation in media and the arts.

    Are you excited about the HBCU First LOOK Film Festival? What are you most looking forward to? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

  • Top 5 Inspiring Quotes from BE XCEL Summit For Men

    The Black Enterprise 2025 XCEL Summit for Men recently wrapped up in Orlando, Florida, leaving attendees inspired and equipped with tools for success. This powerful gathering brought together Black professionals, entrepreneurs, and leaders for a weekend dedicated to growth, community, and empowerment. With a focus on overcoming barriers, achieving financial independence, and leading in today’s dynamic industries, the summit offered invaluable insights. Here are five of the most inspiring quotes from the event’s headlining speakers:

    1. John Hope Bryant: The Economic Plumber

    “I consider myself an economic plumber for the Black community. I’m just creating the infrastructure. […] I want to be the Starbucks of financial inclusion, the Walmart of economic empowerment. I figured raising credit scores was an easy, neutral mechanism that no one could interrupt, and you have complete control over.” — John Hope Bryant, Founder, Chairman & CEO, Operation HOPE, Inc. | Bryant Group Ventures LLC

    Bryant emphasizes his mission to build essential infrastructure for economic empowerment, aiming to make financial inclusion as accessible as a cup of coffee or everyday goods. He sees raising credit scores as a fundamental, controllable tool for progress.

    2. Troy Taylor: Celebrating Our Role in America

    “This is our country; don’t forget that. […] As we go into next year, we celebrate America 250. Sometimes there are whispers about, well, how will Black America celebrate America 250? I’ll say this: I think we should do an awesome job celebrating America 250. America wouldn’t be America without us.” — Troy Taylor, Founder, Chairman & CEO, Coca-Cola Beverages Florida

    Taylor passionately asserts the integral role of Black Americans in the nation’s history and future, urging a proud celebration of America’s 250th anniversary and recognizing that the country wouldn’t be the same without the contributions of the Black community.

    3. Rev. Dr. W. Franklyn Richardson: Passing the Torch

    “We need in the Black community; we need people who go from generation to generation. It is not enough for us just simply to have a winning day in our individual lives. We must pass it on to the next generation.” — Rev. Dr. W. Franklyn Richardson, Senior Pastor, Grace Baptist Church

    Dr. Richardson highlights the critical need for intergenerational impact within the Black community. He stresses that individual success is important, but true progress lies in ensuring that achievements and knowledge are passed down to future generations.

    4. Blair Underwood: The Drum Major Instinct

    “Everyone can be great, the greatest of all time. Anyone and everyone can be great if you service other people.” — Blair Underwood, Award-winning American Actor, Director, Producer

    Drawing from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s “Drum Major Instinct” speech, Underwood explains that true greatness isn’t just about being in front, but about serving others. He believes that anyone can achieve greatness by dedicating themselves to serving people.

    5. Dr. George C. Fraser: Leaders as the Foundation

    “Leaders are the foundation. A house cannot stand without a strong foundation. […] Their job is to cultivate, nurture, and prepare their team, their family, to get to the top.” — Dr. George C. Fraser, Founder, FraserNet Inc.

    Dr. Fraser uses the powerful analogy of a house to describe leadership. He emphasizes that leaders are the essential foundation upon which visions, goals, and objectives are built. Their crucial role is to nurture and prepare their teams and families for success.

    These quotes from the BE XCEL Summit for Men offer a powerful reminder of the importance of community, service, and strategic leadership in driving progress and achieving lasting success. The summit provided a vital platform for these conversations, empowering men to build stronger foundations for themselves and future generations.

    Which of these quotes resonates most with you? How do you practice ‘passing it on’ or ‘serving others’ in your own life? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

  • Civil Rights Museum Honors Courage at Freedom Awards

    The National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis recently hosted its 34th annual Freedom Awards ceremony, a powerful event that not only celebrated modern-day trailblazers but also marked the 60th anniversary of the landmark Voting Rights Act of 1965.

    Honoring Leaders in the Fight for Justice

    The ceremony, held at the historic Lorraine Motel, recognized three distinguished leaders for their significant contributions to civic engagement, education, and entertainment. These individuals have demonstrated exceptional leadership and courage in advancing equity and inclusivity.

    Dr. Russ Wigginton, President of the National Civil Rights Museum, praised the honorees, stating, “Each of them models our mission to honor and preserve Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy while inspiring others to create positive social change.” The honorees included Marc H. Morial, President and CEO of the National Urban League; Dr. Velma Lois Jones, a local educator and civil rights leader in Memphis; and Mark Suzman, CEO of the Gates Foundation.

    A Legacy of Voting Rights

    The event also served as a poignant reminder of the 60th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act. Dr. Wigginton emphasized the importance of this foundational piece of legislation, stating, “We honor those who risked everything to protect the sacred right to vote.” He added, “Even as that right faces new threats and attempts to be diminished, we remain resolute in preserving the truth of our shared history and the power of every citizen’s voice.”

    Honorees like Dr. Jones underscored the critical need to exercise voting rights, especially in the current political climate. The museum’s commitment to preserving this history and advocating for its continued protection was a central theme throughout the evening.

    Inspiring Future Leaders

    The Freedom Awards also highlighted the next generation of activists through its Student Forum. The Keeper Of The Dream Award was presented to student advocates in Memphis, encouraging them to continue leading the charge for change.

    Museum’s Legacy Building Reopening

    Looking ahead, the National Civil Rights Museum announced the upcoming reopening of its Legacy Building in 2026. This expansion aims to further enhance its storytelling of civil and human rights history in America, featuring new student engagement spaces, updated exhibitions on contemporary social justice issues, and technological advancements.

    What does the Voting Rights Act mean to you today? How can we continue to honor the legacy of civil rights leaders? Share your thoughts and reflections in the comments below!

  • XCEL Summit: Black Men Urged to ‘Lean In’

    The Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress in Orlando, Florida, recently buzzed with energy as BLACK ENTERPRISE hosted the 2025 XCEL Summit for Men. This empowering three-day event, themed ‘Made for Men. Built for Impact.,’ brought together influential Black men from October 15th to 17th to celebrate, equip, and connect those shaping culture, business, and community.

    A Call to Action for Impact and Legacy

    The summit provided a dynamic platform for thought-provoking panels, professional development workshops, and candid discussions. Key themes included leadership, wealth building, mental wellness, and finding one’s purpose. The goal was clear: to equip attendees with the tools needed to advance their careers, expand their influence, and establish a lasting generational legacy.

    A major highlight was the XCEL Awards Gala, where distinguished honorees shared powerful messages. Troy Taylor, NFL legend Larry Fitzgerald Jr., and Rev. Dr. W. Frankly Richardson delivered impactful statements, urging the Black community, and particularly Black men, to ‘lean in’ and actively contribute to positive change.

    Inspiring Words from Esteemed Honorees

    Troy Taylor emphasized the importance of collective action and strategic investment within the Black community. His message resonated with the summit’s core theme, encouraging attendees to not only achieve personal success but also to contribute to the broader economic empowerment of Black people.

    Larry Fitzgerald Jr. spoke about the power of resilience and mentorship, drawing from his own experiences in professional sports and business. He highlighted the need for strong role models and the responsibility that comes with influence, urging attendees to uplift and guide the next generation.

    Faith, Purpose, and Community

    Rev. Dr. W. Frankly Richardson delivered a message rooted in faith and purpose, connecting spiritual grounding with tangible impact. He stressed the importance of aligning one’s actions with a higher calling and using one’s platform to serve the community, reinforcing the idea that true success is measured by the positive change one creates.

    The summit provided a vital space for Black men to connect, share experiences, and gain insights from leaders who are actively making a difference. The energy and shared commitment to impact were palpable throughout the event.

    • The 2025 XCEL Summit for Men took place October 15-17 in Orlando, Florida.
    • Theme: ‘Made for Men. Built for Impact.’
    • Focused on leadership, wealth, mental wellness, and purpose.
    • Honorees Troy Taylor, Larry Fitzgerald Jr., and Rev. Dr. W. Frankly Richardson shared inspiring messages.
    • Urged Black men to ‘lean in’ and drive community and business impact.

    The XCEL Summit for Men continues to be a cornerstone event for Black male professionals and leaders, fostering a community dedicated to growth, empowerment, and making a significant impact. The messages shared by the honorees serve as a powerful call to action for continued engagement and leadership.

    What does ‘leaning in’ mean to you in your career or community? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!

  • Havoc Celebrates Mobb Deep’s ‘Infinite’ Legacy

    Havoc recently brought together hip-hop legends in Queens for a special album release party celebrating Mobb Deep’s latest project, ‘Infinite.’ The private event at Partake NYC was a star-studded affair, honoring the enduring legacy of the iconic duo. Guests enjoyed DJ sets from Kid Capri and Alchemist, sipped on Crown Royal Apple cocktails, and witnessed Havoc take the stage for a performance of ‘Against The World.’

    A Star-Studded Celebration of Mobb Deep’s Legacy

    The event drew an impressive guest list, including Nas, Busta Rhymes, Spliffstar, Maino, Red Cafe, and Raekwon, among others, all coming together to celebrate Mobb Deep’s impact on hip-hop. ‘Infinite,’ released last week, marks Mobb Deep’s 9th studio album and is the first since the tragic passing of Prodigy in 2017.

    Havoc spearheaded the project, collaborating with longtime producer The Alchemist, who also handled a significant portion of the production. Havoc shared with ‘The Breakfast Club’ that the album came together organically: ‘I linked up with Alchemist and we knew we had to start. I had a couple of songs already, some verses from Prodigy’s family, and Alchemist had a ton of verses already. So we just started putting it together and breaking it down.’

    Honoring Prodigy’s Memory

    The release of ‘Infinite’ is a poignant tribute to Prodigy’s memory and his indelible contribution to Mobb Deep’s sound. Havoc’s dedication to continuing the duo’s legacy, with the support of collaborators like The Alchemist and a community of fellow artists, ensures that Mobb Deep’s influence will continue to resonate.

    The album’s creation, incorporating verses from Prodigy’s family and Alchemist’s extensive collection of verses, represents a collaborative effort to honor the late artist. This project serves not only as new music for fans but also as a deeply personal endeavor for Havoc and those close to Mobb Deep.

    The album release event was a powerful reminder of the deep respect and camaraderie within the hip-hop community. Seeing legends like Nas, Busta Rhymes, and Raekwon come out to support Havoc and celebrate Mobb Deep’s ‘Infinite’ legacy underscores the duo’s significant impact on the genre.

    What are your favorite Mobb Deep tracks or memories? Share them in the comments below as we celebrate the legacy of this legendary hip-hop group!

  • André Leon Talley’s Style Legacy Honored in SCAD Exhibition

    The Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) is honoring the incomparable style legacy of the late André Leon Talley with a new exhibition, “André Leon Talley: Style Is Forever.” Curated by Rafael Brauer Gomes, creative director of SCAD FASH museums, the exhibition serves as a “love letter to a legend” who profoundly shaped the fashion industry.

    A Glimpse into Talley’s Iconic Wardrobe

    The exhibition features a curated selection of looks from Talley’s personal collection, showcasing ready-to-wear, couture, and bespoke pieces. These selections highlight some of his most recognizable fashion moments, from legendary Met Galas and famed front rows to more intimate occasions. Gomes described Talley as someone who “didn’t just shape fashion, he shaped people,” cementing his place in history through his unique style and conviction.

    SCAD recognized Talley’s “deep intellect, flair for language, and skill at contextualizing contemporary design within the richness of history,” calling him “fashion’s kingmaker.” Antoine Gregory, founder of Black Fashion Fair and artistic advisor for the exhibition, shared the personal significance of the project: “It has been an opportunity to honor someone who shaped not only fashion but the way so many of us see ourselves in it.”

    An Icon’s Impact Across Generations

    Gregory also noted the extensive contributions from fashion icons like Anna Wintour, Dapper Dan, Tom Ford, and Mariah Carey, which illustrate Talley’s broad impact across generations and industries. “André Leon Talley showed me that fashion could be a language, a shield, a stage and a home,” Gregory reflected. “He moved through the industry with such authority and knowledge that it made me believe there was room for me, too.”

    Accompanying the exhibition is a companion book featuring new photography by SCAD alum Allen Cooley and archival images from fashion documentarians Jonathan Becker and Robert Fairer. The book further explores Talley’s “grandeur and global impact,” offering insights into the stories, communities, and memories embedded within his iconic wardrobe.

    Exhibition Details and Preview

    The “André Leon Talley: Style Is Forever” exhibition opened on Tuesday, October 14th, and will run through January 11, 2026. The opening reception featured notable figures from the fashion and entertainment industries, including Law Roach, Veronica Webb, Tameka Foster, Ahmad Barber, and Tricky Stewart, underscoring Talley’s far-reaching influence.

    What is your favorite memory or style moment from André Leon Talley? Share your thoughts in the comments below!