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In 2014 Blavity was birthed through the creative minds of founders, college friends Morgan DeBaun, Jeff Nelson, Jonathan Jackson, and Aaron Samuels. Since then they have launched, acquired, and partnered with brands and companies to enhance their network and visibility within and beyond the digital space. In 2016 Blavity held the inaugural AfroTech conference in Silicon Valley, the mecca of global technology. Since its inception, AfroTech has become a pillar in the Black professional community, hosting (now) thousands with backgrounds in engineering, technology, and the vast pool of entrepreneurship.
Each year, the conference opens its doors for networking, panel discussions, Q&A, live demos and so much more, in an effort to bridge the gap between conceptualization and actualization of operating your own business. With so much to be gained from this experience, here are our top 5 reasons that you should consider attending AfroTech 2019 (and every year following).
1. AfroTech is the ONLY conference that celebrates Black techies.
The name says it ALL. As Solange so perfectly sings it in her song “F.U.B.U” this ish is for Us! AfroTech not only highlights the innovation and success of Black techies, but encourages and educates African American men and women on how to take a chance on their dreams of entrepreneurship within the tech space and other professions, helping to refine their plans so that they can excel in their field!
2. AfroTech is making history; why not be apart?
How often do you hear about a Black tech organization taking over Silicon Valley? I’ll tell you– you haven’t. Ever. That is, not until AfroTech emerged on the scene. This conference has been shaking up the tech world in a positive way that is groundbreaking and game changing. Forget taking a seat at the table, AfroTech is the table.
3. AfroTech is an opportunity to expand your network.
With speakers and attendees from across the country, information sessions, and a pitch competition, AfroTech is the perfect setting to hand out your business cards, share your skills, gain new ones, ask the right questions, and make professional connections that can change your life.
4. AfroTech gives back!
Since the beginning, a driving point for AfroTech has been to sow back into the community. This year, AfroTech is introducing AfroTech Community Engagement and AfroTech Entertainment committees that will help spread their mission of connecting African Americans throughout the Oakland, CA area before, during, and after this year’s conference.
5. AfroTech is down right FUN!
Yes, there will be a plethora of opportunities for you to enrich your mind and level up in your career, but the social portions of the AfroTech conference are equally as fulfilling and unmatched. Enjoy day parties, brunch with drink specials, happy hours and more including multiple RnBHouseParty events curated by our friend Charles Beloved (Beloved1906). According to Blavity Chief Brand Officer Will Lucas “Often, last minute confirmations to attend AfroTech happen because people are working to convince their employers that investing in their trip or simply allowing them to take the time off as a learning opportunity can be a much more time consuming process. For others, it can be simply a realization that they’re about to miss out on the most fire conference of the year!”
AfroTech 2019 is expected to be the biggest and best conference to date! Don’t miss your opportunity to share in this cultural glow up! Let this recap from AfroTech 2018 spark your FOMO (fear of missing out). Get your tickets for AfroTech 2019 today!
-Tyler Lawrence (IamTylerMarie)