AI & Your Industry (Panel): Now and Next - Room B

Moderator: Rene Daughtry
Panelists: Reginald B.Simpson II (Community Development), Kendell Dorsey (Education), John Guess,(Digital Media)  Dr. Jennifer R. Thomas, FNP (Medical)

Dive into the practical applications of AI in creative industries and how it’s transforming the way we work. This session explores both the current impact of AI and its future potential across various sectors.

Creating Stars: Turning Vision into Business - Room A

with Elton Benjamin and Omar McCallop

Join in as they share their expertise in transforming creative visions into thriving businesses. From behind-the-scenes insights to success stories, learn how they have launched impactful brands and helped entrepreneurs make their dreams a reality.

I Never Had to Learn Flash - Room B

with Brad Stoneking

Candid, punchy reflection on what it means to stay creative in the face of hype cycles, tech disruptions, and the relentless pressure to chase the next big thing  whether it’s Flash, NFTs, or AI. It’s not about resisting new tools. It’s about remembering why you make things in the first place.

Mental Health in the Age of AI - Room A

with Sarah Wilder LCSW

Dive into the intersection of mental health and AI, exploring how technology impacts well-being and how to maintain balance in a digitally driven world.

AI, Culture, and Legacy - Room B

with Troy McNish, RedHat Inc.

Focusing on preserving Black history through the innovative use of open-source technology and artificial intelligence. This event highlights the collaborative efforts of Red Hat's Blacks United in Leadership and Diversity (B.U.I.L.D) community, showcasing how storytelling and technology can unite to honor and safeguard cultural heritage.

Lunch

Lunch is self-service; you’re welcome to enjoy the break and grab food wherever you like.

Keynote: Innovate to Thrive: Strategies to Transform from Ideas to Impact in an Era of Disruption - Rooms A & B

with Tom Triumph

In a world where survival isn’t enough, innovation is everything. In this powerful keynote, Tom Triumph—drawing from his book Evolve or Die—explores how intentional evolution fuels lasting success. Through stories from NASA, Pixar, and beyond, Tom shares practical tools to spark a culture of innovation that drives growth, resilience, and leadership. Leave inspired and equipped to lead transformation in your career and organization.

The Future of Podcasting and Influencers  - Room A

Moderator: Houston Vines
Panelist: Mecca Brown and Cornelius Kirk
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An in-depth discussion on where podcasting and influencer marketing are headed, the impact of AI, and strategies for staying ahead in the digital landscape

Trailblazers: Women Leading the Way in Business & Creativity (Panel) - Room B

Moderator: Kenia ThompsonPanelists: Valonda Calloway, Ashley Berry, Kimberly Winborne, Wanda Thomas, Sara Wilder
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Celebrate the women who are breaking barriers and leading innovation in business and creativity. This session showcases powerful women driving change in the creative and business industries and how they’ve paved the way for future leaders.