Young Innovators

Inspiring Children’s Panel

Discover the incredible stories of young entrepreneurs at our “Young Innovators" children’s panel. These bright youngsters are making waves with their creativity and determination. Join us for an introduction and discussion where they’ll share how they turned their ideas into reality and inspire other children to do the same. Don’t miss this chance to be inspired and empowered by the next generation of change makers!

Madison Jade

@simply_madisonjade

A 9-year-old social media sensation who’s making waves with her impeccable fashion sense, boundless compassion, and larger-than-life personality. With an impressive resume that includes features on “Little Big Shots" and “The Today Show," Madison has showcased her skills not only in modeling and acting but also on various social media platforms, captivating audiences with her charm and charisma.  Madison is more than a rising star in the entertainment world—she’s also an avid dancer and horseback rider who radiates confidence and grace in everything she does. Rooted in her strong faith, Madison is a passionate advocate for self-love, female empowerment, and overall confidence, inspiring others to embrace their uniqueness and shine brightly in their own skin.

Cassidy Bridges

@cassidy_brianna

Cassidy Bridges, a seven-year-old dynamo who is making a name for herself as a model, actor, author, and social media influencer. Cassidy’s, dazzles audiences with her charisma and talent. Cassidy’s journey to stardom began when her Instagram video celebrating her Afro hair went viral, garnering attention from A-list celebrities like Viola Davis and D.L. Hughley, and earning coverage in prestigious publications such as Oprah Daily, BET, The Shade Room, and even Sesame Street. Cassidy has graced the screens of The Jennifer Hudson Show, The Tamron Hall Show, and Recess Therapy, captivating audiences with her infectious energy and wisdom beyond her years. As a keynote speaker at Princeton University, she has inspired audiences with her empowering message of self-love and acceptance. Her iconic catchphrase, “Thank you, It’s an Afro," has transformed her into a symbol of Black pride and beauty, leading to the creation of her first book and lifestyle brand.

Ivory Twinz Kreations

@ivory_twinz_kreations

A burgeoning brand in handmade fashion accessories masterminded by the dynamic sister duo, Leyla (9) and Ilyana (8). Their ingenious designs and craftsmanship have captured the spotlight on America’s Craftiest Kidpreneur, featured on @madetv.network.

With a commitment to celebrating cultural heritage and promoting diversity in fashion, Leyla and Ilyana utilize vibrant African print fabrics to craft a stunning array of scrunchies, satin-lined bonnets, bags, and headbands. Each piece reflects their artistic flair and serves as a powerful statement of inclusivity and representation in the fashion industry.

Ivory Twinz Kreations is a testament to the creativity, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit of Leyla and Ilyana. These young ladies are making quality accessories and a bold statement about the beauty of cultural diversify in fashion.

Rosie

@go_rosie_grow

Rosie is an 8-year-old adorable, giant personality kid from Detroit, MI. She has the cutest tone of expression. Rosie, as she infectiously is called by family and friends have been featured on Good Morning America, Right This Minute viral television show,  Washington DC Instagram and Facebook page, The National Desk, ABC interview with First Lady Michelle Obama, The View and have a hefty growing fan base on Instagram. Rosie is hilarious!!!

She has been shown all over the world and has been shared by many celebrities such as Tina Turner, Tina Knowles, Stacey Abrams, Laila Ali, Viola Davis, Tabitha Brown and Whoopi Goldberg just to name a few,  for her weekly homage of famous black women during Black History Month. Rosie has a  dynamite personality and a natural talent for acting which she simply calls pretending!! Rosie has never met a stranger and her smile swallows her whole face.

Rosie was Ms Oprah Winfrey’s “VIP GUEST” at the official movie  premier of The Color Purple! Rosie is more than a young social media influencer. She’s a young actress who is making a big name for herself!

Dating Love and Relationships

The Good, The Bad, The Ugly, The Better

Ready to dive into an awesome panel discussion about Love? We’re talking all things dating, love, and relationships – the juicy stuff! From embracing self-love to nurturing those bonds with family and friends, we’re covering it all. And guess what? We’ve got some seriously cool tips and tricks up our sleeves for finding that special someone who’s just right for you. So, grab a seat and get ready for some fun, insightful chats that’ll leave you feeling inspired and ready to take on the world of relationships!

Tisia Saffold

@tisiaxvs

Tisia, a multifaceted influencer whose impact knows no bounds. With over 200 thousand devoted followers hanging onto her every word, Tisia reigns supreme on social media, delivering daily doses of unique and unfiltered dating and relationship advice that’s as straight as it gets. Through her magnetic personality and dedication to celebrating diversity, Tisia has amassed a staggering 68 million views across various platforms. Her viral presence is a testament to the authenticity and relatability of her content. But Tisia is more than a social media sensation, she’s a trailblazer in her own right. You may have seen her captivating audiences on the hit OWN Network show, “Ready To Love," where she brought her unique charisma and wisdom to the screen, leaving a lasting impression on viewers worldwide. Get ready for an engaging and inspiring discussion that will leave you feeling motivated, uplifted, and equipped with the knowledge to navigate through relationships of all kinds in life.

Lisa Marie Lovett

@seasoned_dialouge

A Georgia native whose passion for mental health, spirituality, and creativity knows no bounds. She is a devoted wife and mother, Lisa-Marie is currently working to earn her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health. Lisa-Marie is the captivating host of the “Seasoned Dialogue" podcast, where she fearlessly tackles topics surrounding mental health, spiritual growth, and the journey of healing. Through insightful conversations and thought-provoking discussions, she invites listeners to join her in exploring the depths of the human experience.  On social media, she has over half a million followers and captivates audiences with her unique blend of spoken word poetry, on life’s myriad ups and downs. Her words resonate deeply, offering solace, inspiration, and a sense of connection to those who listen.  Lisa-Marie is also the owner and operator of, “Photography by Lisa-Maria" for over 14 years.

Easily Influenced

Influencer Panel

Saturday, April 27, 2024

Hey there! Get ready for an epic panel discussion with some of your favorite social media influencers! Ever wondered what it takes to become an influencer? Or what inspired them to dive into the world of social media? Well, now’s your chance to find out! We’ve got a diverse lineup of influencers ready to spill the beans on their journeys to social media stardom. So, grab a seat and get ready for some fun and exciting stories that’ll leave you feeling inspired and ready to conquer the world of influence! Let’s do this!

Kendria K. Bland

@kendria_bland

Meet Kendria Bland, the comedic sensation behind the @kendria_bland TikTok account, where she entertains a whopping 1.8 million dedicated followers and a half million on Instagram. Hailing from Quitman, Mississippi, Kendria’s journey to social media stardom began with her uproarious skits, notably the viral hit “If Caillou mama was black," which garnered over 6.5 million views. Kendria’s path to success wasn’t without its hurdles. Battling postpartum depression while pregnant with her daughter, she turned to comedy as a coping mechanism, discovering a knack for making others laugh. Fueled by the joy her content brought to others, she embraced her role as a comedic influencer wholeheartedly. Kendria’s world revolves around her family. She is a proud mother to Gabrielle and Gabriel and shares her life with her husband, Brandon, a native of Meridian, Mississippi.

Lana Symone

@ina90skindofworld

Meet Symone, the dynamic personality behind the @ina90skindofworld brand, where she shines as a Natural Hair, Fashion, Beauty, and Lifestyle Influencer extraordinaire. With her radiant personality and unparalleled expertise in crafting mesmerizing styles, Symone has garnered a devoted following of over a quarter million fans across social media platforms.

Beyond her stunning mane, Symone’s vibrant energy and zest for life are palpable in every post she shares. Infusing each moment with excitement and joy, she captivates her audience and invites them into her world of fun and exploration. With Symone, every day is an adventure, and her followers eagerly anticipate what’s next as she continues to inspire and uplift through her content.

Brittany Davis

@astoldbybrittanyd

Brittany, originally from Philadelphia and now rooted in Atlanta, discovered her passion for content creation and influencing after relocating to Georgia in 2012. Following her marriage at a young age, she embraced the role of a housewife in El Paso, Texas, where she delved into the world of beauty and makeup tutorials. Transitioning her focus to natural hair, Brittany’s journey of self-discovery led her to become a beacon of inspiration within the textured hair community, showcasing the beauty of diverse styles and vibrant colors. Her authenticity and expertise attracted the attention of major brands, propelling her to prominence in the beauty industry.

Documenting her hair transformation, from the courageous big chop to experimenting with bold colors, Brittany’s content resonated deeply, earning her widespread recognition and a devoted following. Today, she continues to empower others with her dynamic content, serving as a source of inspiration for self-expression and confidence.

The Goddess Force

Start, Fail Win Podcast

Engaging Fireside Chats and Inspiring Tales of Triumph from Seasoned Experts

Hey there! Get ready for an unforgettable podcast panel ride with us! We’ve got top-notch experts in beauty, finance, health, and wellness lined up, and we’re diving into all the latest trends and tips. Led by the unstoppable mother-daughter duo, Taliah Waajid and Ta’Ron Joyner, each episode is packed with fun chats and valuable insights. From skincare secrets to money matters, we’ve got you covered. And don’t miss our “What’s New" segment, where we spill the tea on the latest industry buzz. So grab your spot and join the party – it’s gonna be a blast!

Beauty & Fashion

Danessa Myricks @danessamyrickbeauty

As a makeup artist, photographer, and entrepreneur, Danessa has mastered the art of beauty application and image creation, earning her a well-deserved reputation as a trailblazer in the makeup industry. With the launch of her revolutionary line, Danessa Myricks Beauty, she continues to push the boundaries of beauty with her innovative products and visionary approach. But Danessa’s journey is more than just about cosmetics—it’s about empowerment and representation. With a keen focus on inclusivity and diversity, she’s on a mission to revolutionize the beauty industry and ensure that every face is celebrated and represented. Join us as we explore Danessa’s remarkable career, her passion for artistry and innovation, and her commitment to empowering others in the beauty industry. Get ready to be inspired, informed, and uplifted by the one and only Danessa Myricks!

Holistic Health & Wellness

Queen Afua @queenafua

Queen Afua is a New York Times best-selling author, holistic health & wellness practitioner, entrepreneur, and has been affectionately coined as the “Mother of Womb Wellness for over 40 years.  As a world-renowned leader and the CEO of the Queen Afua Wellness Institute, (QAWI), she has successfully empowered over 1,000,000 women, men, and children with her workshops, products, books, and teachings founded on the principles of utilizing food, self-care, and holistic choices as a movement towards a healthier lifestyle.  Queen Afua claims a record number of “firsts for her contributions to the holistic rejuvenation and womb wellness methodologies for Black Women. Her training programs provide emotional, mental, and physical healing through the use of holistic African practices and principles.  Queen Afua made a guest appearance in Beyonce’s musical film: Black is King.  She also has her own QAWI, Sacred Woman Docuseries.

Finance, Wealth Building

Joseph (Joe) Faxio

Joseph (Joe) Faxio is deeply inspired by his great grandparents’ ministry involvement, guiding his success in finance management. As a fourth-generation ministry participant, Joe finds fulfillment in positively impacting others’ financial futures, reflecting his family’s service-oriented values. Born in Washington, DC, and raised in Kansas City, Missouri, Joe attended Morehouse College for his undergraduate degree before earning his MBA at Emory University. With over 16 years of experience, Joe excels in guiding clients toward financial success through Faxio Private Wealth, founded in 2022. He serves on the boards of the National Black MBA Association (NBMBAA) and Families First’s Endowment Committee while contributing to the Dekalb Brilliance Academy Charter School as a founding advisory council member. Through his leadership and dedication, Joe continues to make a positive impact on those around him, embodying the values of service and community upliftment.  When Joe is away from work he enjoys spending quality time with his wife and children. He believes in creating lasting memories with loved ones.

What’s New?

Tomesha Faxio, @tomeshafaxio

Tomesha Faxio, @tomeshafaxio is an author and self-taught photographer on a mission to redefine beauty standards and celebrate the Black experience. Through her lens, she specializes in capturing the essence of Black women and women of color, challenging Eurocentric beauty norms and shedding light on authentic stories that resonate deeply.  Her latest literary masterpiece, “Wash Day," released in early 2024, is not just a book—it’s a powerful testament to the beauty and resilience of Black natural hair. Inspired by her own struggles and triumphs with embracing her roots, Tomesha’s book delves into the complexities of self-perception and societal indoctrination, urging Black women and their daughters to love and embrace their natural hair textures with pride and confidence.  Tomesha’s impactful photography has graced the pages of esteemed publications such as Parents.com, Jezebel, The Guardian, and Forbes.com, while her work has been featured in acclaimed documentary films like “Refuge" and “Love Wins Over Hate." As a distinguished alumna of Spelman College and Vanderbilt University, Tomesha is not just an author and photographer—she’s a visual storyteller for authenticity, representation, and empowerment.

Artificial Intelligence Segment

Diya K Wynn, @diyakwynn

Diya is a pioneering force in responsible AI, currently serving as the Responsible AI Lead at AWS. Recognized for her outstanding contributions, she has been named among the top figures in AI by Business Insider and VentureBeat. With a focus on making Responsible AI accessible, Diya works tirelessly to build trust in AI systems by mitigating risks and advocating for ethical practices.

Before her current role, Diya spent 15 years in early-stage companies, consulting, and scaling products for acquisition. An accomplished author and international speaker, she also dedicates her time to serving on non-profit boards and volunteering with various organizations. Committed to shaping the future, Diya mentors individuals to challenge boundaries and redefine success, all while balancing her role as a mother to two sons.

Back To The Business of Beauty

Hey beauty professionals!  Ready to get back in the game and level up your beauty biz? Join us for “Back To The Business Of Beauty" – a panel discussion that’s all about taking your skills and professionalism to the next level in this booming industry. We’ve gathered a lineup of successful beauty and business pros who’ll spill the tea on why sharpening your professionalism skills is key to tapping into the billion-dollar beauty market.  Let’s talk about the cold, hard truth: the money and time you might be losing by not investing in workshops, attending trade shows, and staying ahead of the curve with styling and business trends. It’s time to break out of that comfort zone and embrace growth like never before!   Don’t miss out on this golden opportunity to learn from the best and propel your beauty career to new heights.

Karen Dupiche

@karendupiche

Karen Dupiche, a four-time Emmy Award-winning Makeup Artist for “The View," is renowned as one of the industry’s most respected celebrity makeup artists. Raised in East Orange, New Jersey, she learned the value of hard work from her Haitian parents. Karen found her true calling in the entertainment industry, where her natural talent and leadership were quickly recognized.

With over 15 years at “The View" and extensive work at major award shows, Karen is a leading makeup artist for print, film, video, and television. She also served as Chief Beauty Officer for Elisabeth Hasselbeck at Fox Network. Karen is sought after by brides worldwide for her magical transformations, by major beauty companies, editors, and renowned photographers.  Karen’s philanthropic efforts focus on, children’s welfare, domestic violence, and cancer organizations. Her faith guides her in both personal and professional endeavors.

Diann Valentine

@diannvalentine

Diann Valentine founded SLAYYY Hair in 2021 after experiencing scalp issues from wearing braids for years. Determined to find a healthier solution, she developed the SLAYYY Secret Sauce after two years of research and feedback from braiders nationwide. Diann believes in offering black women superior products for protective styles, advocating for better care and respect in the beauty industry.  Aside from SLAYYY, Diann is the president and creative director of Glow + Flow Beauty, a beauty retail concept store in California. Glow + Flow Beauty reimagines the shopping experience for black women, creating welcoming environments in urban neighborhoods. The expansion plan includes a franchise model to empower black women through land and business ownership.

Desirée

@trinityimagenails

Desirée, the owner of Trinity Image Nails, is a celebrity nail artist based in Atlanta, Georgia, renowned for her elegant and chic designs. After discovering her talent while reshaping her daughter’s nails, she pursued formal training and graduated with honors from Georgia Career Institute in 2018.

Since then, Desirée has worked with numerous celebrities, including reality stars like Quad Webb and music legends like Lauryn Hill. She also shares her expertise through teaching and speaking engagements, inspiring others in both nail artistry and business.

With over 100 clients and a growing business, Desirée remains committed to delivering exceptional service and elevating the beauty industry.

Code Switching: From Business to Bae

The Good Man Panel

SUNDAY, April 28, 2024

The “Good Man Panel," is a celebration of inspiring Black men making remarkable impacts in their communities, the business world, and within their families. This empowering panel sheds light on the stories of men who lead by example, demonstrating strength, integrity, and a deep commitment to positive change. Join us as we explore how they navigate challenges, inspire those around them, and pave the way for a brighter future through their actions and leadership. From entrepreneurs transforming the marketplace to dedicated family men shaping the next generation, this discussion is a testament to the powerful influence of good men in our society.  Don’t miss this uplifting and insightful conversation that celebrates the contributions and achievements of Black men dedicated to making a difference. It’s more than a panel; it’s a movement toward recognizing and amplifying the voices of men who embody the essence of positive change and leadership.

Ric Mathis

@ricmathis

Ric Mathis, the “Documentary King," is a seasoned filmmaker and author renowned for his work in photojournalism and filmmaking spanning over 20 years. Based in Atlanta, GA., he founded West End Filmmakers and is internationally recognized as a leading director, producer, and writer. Mathis began his career in 1997 with HBO’s Def Poetry Jam and later served as a supervising producer at Rolling Out Magazine.

He’s acclaimed for his documentaries, including The Film Black Friday series, and has received numerous awards for his contributions. Mathis is also known for his community service, having been honored with the President’s Lifetime Achievement Award from Barack Obama. He’s led national and global brand campaigns and produced biographical documentaries. This year marks the 20th anniversary of his acclaimed poetry series ‘Word."

Khalifah Waajid

@taliahwaajidbrand & @unclejimmyproducts

Khalifah Waajid, boasting over 15 years as the sales manager of the Taliah Waajid brand, is a beacon of loyalty and dedication, both to his family and professional endeavors. His unwavering commitment has been instrumental in the growth of the Taliah Waajid Brand throughout the years. As a proud father of three, Khalifah gets immense joy from his roles as both a parent and businessman. Esteemed in the multicultural industry, he is known for his dedication and genuine passion for his craft.

Khalifah’s role goes beyond sales management; he has been a collaborator in the planning and execution of numerous marketing initiatives for the brand. Highly regarded for his insights and expertise, Khalifah works with distributors nationally and internationally, leveraging his extensive experience to identify and seize new business and sales opportunities for both the Taliah Waajid and Uncle Jimmy Brands on a global scale. His invaluable contributions and unparalleled knowledge make him an indispensable asset to the brands he represents.

Dr. Brandon Frame

@theblackmancan

Dr. Brandon Frame, Founder and Chief Visionary Officer of TheBlackManCan, Inc., is a visionary leader dedicated to amplifying the remarkable stories of Black Men and Boys. His nonprofit has positively impacted over 10,000 individuals globally, with a MENtor network of 500+ and a social media community of 1 million followers. Dr. Frame’s humility and commitment to servant leadership shine through his work. He’s also a Co-Founder of #hiphoped, an author, and a recipient of numerous awards. With a doctorate from Boston University and a bachelor’s from Morehouse College, Dr. Frame continues to inspire excellence from his Bronx, NY roots.

King Randal

@newemergingking

A former United States Marine is dedicated to empowering boys to become exemplary members of society. Founder of The X for Boys program, he provides rehabilitative opportunities for young offenders in South Georgia, achieving remarkable results with a .01% recidivism rate and significant improvements in literacy and vocational skills. Recognized for his achievements, King Randall has received numerous awards, including the 2022 Honor Thy Father Award and the 2023 Dreamstone Award.

At just 23 years old, he continues to make a profound impact through initiatives like The Life Preparatory School for Boys, the first free all-boys boarding school in the region. With his passion, commitment, and dedication, King Randall serves as an inspiration for young men striving to achieve their goals.

Tre Trimz

@tre_trimz

“Tre Trimz” became accustomed to holding clippers at the age of 12. Thus the desire and spark of creativity was born. With a B.A. in Business Administration, Mr. Davis’ corporate endeavors were successful and allowed him the experience needed in marketing and brand building. All the while, never kindling his passion for male grooming. Mr. Davis returned to his first love to earn his barber license.

From this platform “Tre Trimz” has received numerous awards, hosted events catered to male grooming, offers continued education classes and much more. As “Tre Trimz” he continues to grow with education, motivation and mentorship. Setting the goals high so he continues to stay ahead of the game.

Sisterhood

The Elevated Man