BLACKWEEK Makes Triumphant Return To New York City
BLACKWEEK invaded the Tribeca section of Manhattan with the theme of “Welcome to the Culture Economy,” as thousands gathered to gain knowledge, community, and to network with like-minded individuals
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With a host of esteemed individuals making their way to New York City to speak to people interested in what they had to say and discuss, BLACKWEEK invaded the Tribeca section of Manhattan with the theme of “Welcome to the Culture Economy,” as thousands gathered to gain knowledge, community, and to network with like-minded individuals.
As the second BLACKWEEK descended at Spring Studios from Oct.6- 9, people lined up to hear what some had to give out as far as knowledge and advice. Speakers included Don Lemon, Charlamagne the God, Will Lucas, Lean Waithe, Tamika Mallory, T.D. Jakes, Detavio Samuels, and a trove of others who appeared to give game to those interested in getting it. From the first day of the opening reception to the last party that people gathered at and everything in between was an opportunity to network, connect, and build with executives, creatives, and brands to get closer to whatever goals one may have when attending a conference like this, specifically one that caters to Black people and those who support them.
Megan Segarra, one of the organizers of BLACKWEEK, and based on what the other founders stated, an integral part of the team, expressed her thoughts on the conference itself, as the expected growth will be a challenge in itself in future years.
“One of the biggest goals for BLACKWEEK was to stay authentic, to being a true conference to bring people together. And I think a lot of conferences pretend, like, they’re actually doing that, but what they’re really trying to do is just, like, amplify themselves, make money, do whatever.”
Segarra was confident that the goal of this year’s BLACKWEEK was met, as evidenced by the many smiling faces throughout the three days and the satisfied look on the faces of people who attended.
“This year’s theme was ‘Welcome to the Culture Economy’ ’cause there is no economy without culture. It is truly an intersection. And so, to bring talks that made sure we amplified that as a true mission was our goal. And I think we delivered on that with our programming.”
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JoJo Simmons, Chief Brand Officer of 3isFor, Reality TV personality and podcast host (For Good Podcast- available on Spotify and Amazon Music), moderated a panel, and also stated he came away with something by attending the conference. Being around other Black people who are executing their own moves and passing on knowledge was something Simmons got out of BLACKWEEK.
“I’m taking away everything from it. I’m listening to everybody. I’m seeing what everybody’s got going on. Obviously, super excited to be here to do my podcast live, but just hearing everybody else and what they have going on and other things that the Black people are doing, it’s an amazing feeling, man. Especially me being Black myself, obviously, and being amongst people that just appreciate what I bring to the space is me appreciating what they bring to the space as well.”
The importance of Black people and their inventions was on the mind of comedian Godfrey as he hosted a comedy show for up-and-coming comics. But he was also ecstatic about the purpose of BLACKWEEK. He feels that we don’t get enough credit for our contributions to society and does not like that we are still hated as people, especially in this current climate.
“Well, anything Black is important, especially with business and tech. That’s important for us, ’cause we’re always left out of a lot of these things. And which is still sad till this day.”
After naming several inventors and their creations, Godfrey took issue with the mindset of racists who still hold a grudge and still consider us less than them.
“ What are you talking about? Why are we getting left out of technology? We are a technology. Built the pyramids. What are we talking about here? Mathematics and all that sh** is what we created. So these things are important, that we need it for people to have opportunity, that don’t get opportunities.
“It’s just tired. Enough of that. Enough of you not liking us ’cause of what we look like. You know what I’m saying? So these types of events are very important. I’m glad to be part of it, and I hope it continues to expand.”
With the various panels, networking opportunities, and within the fellowship of the attendees at BLACKWEEK, the conference that was put together to bring business leaders, creators, and innovators under the same roof, may have advanced the careers of several people who came looking for moments of gaining knowledge while also speaking to others who may assist in reaching goals. There is excitement for next year’s conference as growth is anticipated, and other networking opportunities will be made available.