DE&I is undergoing a significant transition. Driven by political agendas that seek to downplay or diminish the need for a level playing field for individuals from diverse backgrounds, we are witnessing a troubling reduction in corporate America’s commitments to maintaining vital DE&I roles and programs. DE&I departments are being downsized or eliminated, and supplier diversity programs are also facing scrutiny under this new wave of opposition. In this panel, sponsored by Diageo, we will examine the forces impacting DE&I and explore how it must evolve to endure and thrive.

This panel, moderated by WNBA Champion and Olympic Gold Medalist Swin Cash, will address the growing popularity of women’s sports. Despite this rise in popularity, biases continue to impact women athletes of color, hindering their ability to reach their full potential. We will discuss how to ensure that athletes of color receive their fair share of credibility and opportunity, acknowledging their significant contributions to the women’s sports industry.

This discussion explores the pivotal role Black leaders play in shaping the future of agency holding companies and influencing long-term corporate strategies. Black representation in the boardroom is not just about diversity—it’s a critical driver of corporate performance, governance, and sustainability. We are proud to convene a distinguished panel of Black board directors who are at the forefront of transforming corporate leadership and fostering inclusive, innovative business practices.

Shannon Sharpe has gone from Hall of Fame Football star to Hall of Fame Youtuber. His recent interview with Katt Williams shut down the internet. In this fireside chat moderated by Joy Allen-Altimare, CMO Saucony, we will examine the growing trend of Black hosted talk shows, podcasters and pundits. We will examine why this is becoming so lucrative and why its so popular amongst diverse influencers, celebrities and athletes.

It’s been over four years since the murder of George Floyd and the subsequent promises made by corporate America. In this impactful conversation, George Floyd’s brother, Philonise Floyd, will discuss his ongoing efforts to continue his brother’s legacy and the critical need for brands to uphold their commitments, as the future of our country may depend on it.

“Culture” has quickly become the marketing and advertising industry’s latest buzzword. It is now a key focus for marketers aiming to demonstrate their ability to make brands cool and relevant. However, culture is often misunderstood. In this keynote, Dr. Marcus Collins, author of For the Culture, will help us clarify what culture truly is, what it isn’t, and what it takes to become a cultural marketing expert.

Keith Weaver and his wife Fawn Weaver have taken the spirits industry by storm, proving that Black consumers are not driving premium spirits growth as customers but as founders. In this fireside chat we will discuss how Uncle Nearest has gone from boutique bourbon brand to full blown spirits industry unicorn, surpassing 1 billion dollars in valuation. Keith will share how Uncle Nearest cracked the code and what’s next for the power house duo, who are set to take over the spirits industry.

John Hope Bryant is an author and economist focused on helping underserved communities close the wealth inequality gap. In this fireside chat, John will outline the current state of Black America, the economic crisis he is fighting hard to eliminate and what the Black community needs to do to ensure it can economically survive in a world that is becoming more financially polarizing.

Jonathan Mildenhall will sit down with his first boss, Cindy Gallop, to discuss how a kid from Leeds overcame adversity to become one of the most influential CMOs and marketers in the advertising industry. This candid conversation will explore the challenges that marketers of color face in an industry where politics, cronyism, and other factors affect the objectivity needed for diversity to thrive. Mildenhall will also share his plans to help level the playing field in an industry that needs more bravery.

Award-winning author of “Stamped from the Beginning”, which was adapted into a must-watch documentary on Netflix, Ibram X. Kendi will take Blackweek attendees on a historical journey through the history of racism and bias in America. Moderated by journalist and podcaster Toure, this fireside chat will uncover the origins of bias in America and explore how it consciously and subconsciously affects the opportunities available to people of color.