The second annual ForbesBLK Summit in Atlanta was a landmark gathering of entrepreneurs, business leaders, athletes and entertainers focused on strengthening the Black community through investing and financial literacy. The event highlighted the importance of mentorship, product ownership and diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) in fostering a thriving environment for Black entrepreneurs.
Key Insights on Investments and Mentorship
Kneeland Youngblood, CEO of Pharos Capital Group, spoke about his background and the important role of perseverance and mentorship in securing investment. He emphasized connecting with investors who are genuinely interested in backing groundbreaking ideas. Bukie Adebo and Derek Smith, investment directors at Plug In Ventures, also shared valuable advice on what to look for in entrepreneurs, including industry knowledge and a unique business proposition.
Promoting product ownership and financial literacy
Entertainment industry veterans Fantasia Barrino-Taylor and Kirk Franklin emphasized the importance of financial literacy and owning your product. Barrino-Taylor shared her experience of struggling with financial management early in her career, which inspired her to become educated and advocate for economic independence for the Black community. Similarly, Franklin emphasized the importance of understanding business in order to protect one’s creative rights and earnings.
Improving financial literacy among young people
Young entrepreneurs Kayden Harris and Zoe Oli shared their efforts to educate children and teens about financial management. Harris has successfully turned a modest investment into a thriving business focused on financial education, while Oli is expanding her impact through her retail business and girls’ empowerment programs.
DEI Initiatives and Community Engagement
Stacey Abrams spoke about the long history and importance of DEI and called for greater community involvement in local and state elections to drive change. Other leaders, including Erica Bolden of Mercedes-Benz USA and Dr. Sesha Joy Moon, discussed strategies to increase diversity and inclusion beyond traditional methods, emphasizing the need for a united approach to advance these efforts.
The ForbesBLK Summit not only provided a platform to share valuable insights but also highlighted the collaborative efforts needed to support and uplift Black communities through entrepreneurship and empowerment.
