2024 Session Descriptions

Sessions will be available for registrants to select in July.
Ticketed Sessions require purchase of a registration and a ticket.

Other than ticketed events, sessions do not require sign up, but please note the following: 1) Session attendance seating is based on projected size, so selecting a session helps NBMBAA plan for the right amount of seating. 2) On-site seating for sessions is first-come, first-served and not guaranteed.

Session Availability by Registration Type:

Want to know what pass you need to attend a particular session? Look for your registration type/color code:
CE: Career Expo Only
FC: Full Conference
E: Exhibitor
LI: NBMBAA® Leadership Institute Ticket
TS: Tech Summit Ticket

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17

NBMBAA® Political Town Hall (Invite Event)

Town Hall discussion with policy makers and influencers to increase our members’ influence on the policies and practices affecting education, wealth building and growth opportunities in and for the Black community.
Invitations will be extended to NBMBAA® members who are registered for Conference as of July 15.

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17

NBMBAA® Political Town Hall (Invite Event)

Town Hall discussion with policy makers and influencers to increase our members’ influence on the policies and practices affecting education, wealth building and growth opportunities in and for the Black community.
Invitations will be extended to NBMBAA® members who are registered for Conference as of July 15.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 18

Wednesday Pre-Conference Programming

NBMBAA Leadership Institute® & NBMBAA® Tech Summit

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 18

Wednesday Pre-Conference Programming

NBMBAA Leadership Institute® & NBMBAA® Tech Summit

In the dynamic and demanding world of professional leadership, it’s easy to lose touch with the guiding voice within. This powerful inner voice, often muffled by self-doubt, external pressures, and societal expectations, holds the key to unlocking your true potential and achieving extraordinary success.

Speaker: Carla Harris, Senior Client Advisor, Morgan Stanley

This session will focus on the power of mentorship and community engagement. Participants will learn strategies for sharing their expertise with emerging professionals, contributing to the advancement of the next generation of Black leaders, and inspiring others to pursue their dreams.

Speaker: The Honorable Stacey Abrams, Former Georgia House Minority Leader

This panel explores ChatGPT use cases and the potential impact of AI on the workforce, including opportunities and challenges for BIPOC communities and the potential for AI to create new jobs and industries, as well as the potential for job displacement and the need for reskilling and upskilling.
This session will focus on the art of influence for executive leadership. Participants will learn advanced persuasion techniques, how to effectively communicate their vision and strategies to boards and stakeholders, and how to navigate complex organizational dynamics.
This session will examine the role of innovation and disruption in executive leadership. Participants will learn how to identify and embrace emerging trends, foster a culture of innovation within their organizations, and lead their teams into uncharted territory.
Dive into how blockchain technology is revolutionizing sectors beyond finance, including supply chain management, identity verification, and secure transactions.
A conversation on how to position businesses and brands for global growth. CEO’s gather to share knowledge and key strategies that helped catapult their brands’ growth and expansion Globally. This conversation will feature trailblazers in their space who have created new avenues within their space of the industry.
Discuss the impact of augmented reality on marketing, focusing on personalized experiences, brand engagement, and the future of retail.
This session dives deep into both the immense opportunities and potential threats AI presents. Explore how AI can revolutionize business by automating tasks, enhancing customer experiences, and driving data-driven decision-making. Uncover the inherent biases present in AI algorithms and discuss strategies to mitigate them, ensuring fair and ethical implementation. Develop a roadmap for leveraging AI responsibly and maximizing its benefits.
Spotlighting the indispensable contributions of women in the tech industry and delve into the critical role of diversity and inclusion in driving innovation. Through dynamic discussions and inspiring stories, we’ll explore the power of diverse perspectives, celebrate the achievements of women in tech, and chart a course for advancing gender equality and empowering underrepresented groups in technology.
Wednesday – Regular Conference Programming
Intense and interactive sessions to help individuals identify opportunities, interests, education, and career paths within their company of interest. MTEs highlight subject matter experts from various fields within an organization.
Attendees will receive valuable mentor-mentee nuggets during these 20-minute conversations delivered by corporate executives.

A pitch competition with entrepreneurs pitching business ideas to judges for cash prizes.

Join us for our Conference kickoff reception and networking event.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 19

Keynote

This session will expand the discussion of affirmations beyond individual self-empowerment to encompass the affirmation of Black culture, heritage, and legacy. Participants will delve into the richness and diversity of Black culture, exploring the significance of affirming Black history, traditions, and contributions to society. The session will discuss how affirmations can be used to promote cultural pride, strengthen intergenerational connections, and preserve the legacy of Black excellence.

Speaker: Fawn Weaver, Founder & CEO, Uncle Nearest

Regular Sessions
This session will explore the unique challenges faced by Black professionals in their pursuit of success. Participants will gain insights from successful Black professionals and learn strategies for overcoming obstacles, building allies, and achieving their career aspirations.
This session will explore effective communication and influence techniques for Black leaders. Participants will learn how to articulate their vision, engage with stakeholders, and build consensus, becoming powerful advocates for their ideas and initiatives.
This session will encourage attendees to reflect on their careers, recalibrate their goals, and redefine their legacy. Participants will explore new avenues for personal and professional growth, identify opportunities to make a difference, and craft a legacy that reflects their evolving values and aspirations.
This session will provide attendees with a comprehensive framework for approaching their next career move with clarity, confidence, and strategic planning. Participants will explore key considerations such as self-assessment, market exploration, crafting a compelling narrative, negotiation, and compensation, and maintaining a professional reputation.
This session will focus on developing a strategic mindset, providing Black professionals with the tools and practices to incorporate strategic thinking into their daily lives. Participants will learn how to identify patterns, think critically, and apply strategic frameworks to everyday decision-making, enabling them to approach challenges and opportunities with a strategic perspective.
This session will focus on strategic giving and impact investing, empowering attendees to maximize the impact of their philanthropic endeavors. Participants will learn about different types of philanthropic vehicles, such as foundations, donor-advised funds, and social impact investments, and how to align their giving strategies with their desired social impact.
This session will equip Black professionals with the skills to negotiate effectively in business settings. Participants will learn negotiation strategies, communication techniques, and conflict resolution approaches to achieve successful outcomes in business deals and partnerships.
This session will delve into the development of executive presence, empowering Black professionals to exude confidence, authenticity, and leadership in any setting. Participants will explore strategies for projecting a polished image, communicating effectively, and establishing themselves as respected leaders.
This session will emphasize the role of insurance as an integral part of comprehensive financial planning. Participants will learn how insurance fits into their overall financial goals, how to evaluate their current coverage, and how to make informed decisions to protect their financial security.
Our Think Tank session will share the reporting results from our session convening leaders from non-profits, academia, government agencies, and the public sector to address issues facing Black Professionals in Corporate America.
Expo Floor Sessions
This session will provide a comprehensive overview of investing fundamentals, empowering Black professionals to gain financial literacy and make informed investment decisions. Participants will learn about different asset classes, investment strategies, and risk management principles, equipping them with the knowledge to navigate the world of investing confidently.
Fireside chat with an executive from one of our key sponsors.
This session will delve into the concept of crowdsourcing and its potential benefits. Participants will learn how to identify opportunities to utilize crowdsourcing in their businesses, projects, and careers, leveraging the collective knowledge, expertise, and creativity of diverse individuals to achieve their goals.
Fireside chat with a key influencer from the money space.
This session will emphasize the long-term benefits of prioritizing savings and investing. Participants will learn about the power of compound interest and how paying themselves first consistently can lead to significant wealth accumulation and financial freedom.
Social/Networking Events
Join NBMBAA® Corporate Partners for company-specific events on Thursday Night. Badge required.
This lifestyle event allows our attendees to unwind and balance their focused and aligned week of exploration and innovation with fun and excitement during a Thursday Night party.
Night owls can keep the party going.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 20

Keynote
A special high-level speaker – to be announced!
This session will encourage Black professionals to identify and pursue their passions and aspirations. Participants will learn strategies for aligning their careers with their personal values, exploring entrepreneurial opportunities, and giving back to their communities, creating a fulfilling and meaningful professional journey.
Regular Sessions
This session features Black leaders who have broken barriers in various entertainment sectors (film, television, music, etc.). They discuss their journeys, challenges faced, and strategies for achieving success in leadership positions.
This session will challenge the traditional perception of retirement and encourage experienced Black professionals to explore new possibilities. Participants will learn about creative retirement lifestyle options, including travel, volunteering, entrepreneurial ventures, and community engagement, enabling them to design a fulfilling and meaningful retirement journey.

Do you yearn to be your own boss, leverage a proven business model, and build a thriving enterprise? This session is your roadmap to identifying franchising opportunities, including finding the right fit, navigating the landscape and strategies for overcoming potential biases, building trust and thriving as a Black business owner.

This session spotlights Black content creators and entrepreneurs across diverse mediums (filmmakers, producers, musicians, etc.). They share their experiences in creating and owning their content, navigating distribution channels, and building sustainable businesses.
Sometimes our personal and organizational productivity declines because we are overwhelmed and not doing enough self-care. This workshop will help you uncover the multiple layers that keep us from practicing self-care. This session will highlight the burdens that weigh us down, provide tools to help each person start or continue the practice of self-care and mental wellness while encouraging each person to release any limits they have by giving themselves permission.
This session dives deep into the minds of investors, specifically those who hold the key to unlocking your next growth stage. Attendees will learn investor priorities at different stages, and how to craft a compelling narrative in a way that resonates with investors at each stage.
This session explores the impact of technology and new platforms on the entertainment industry. It covers topics like the rise of streaming services, the influence of social media on content creation, and opportunities for Black professionals in the digital entertainment landscape.
Learn how to leverage your expertise and passion for sports to build a thriving career beyond the field. This dynamic session takes you off the sidelines and into the heart of the sports business world, showcasing the diverse career paths available in the industry. It explores opportunities in areas like sports business, marketing, analytics, broadcasting, and sports law.
This session will delve into the importance of authenticity and purpose in leadership, particularly for Black professionals. Participants will explore their unique strengths, values, and identities, and learn how to use them to lead with confidence and impact.
Entrepreneurship is a powerful tool for building wealth, but ensuring it lasts for generations requires strategic planning. This session focuses on the importance of building businesses that can be passed down through generations. It covers estate planning, succession strategies, and fostering a culture of entrepreneurship within Black families.
Ready to break barriers and ascend to the top of the sports industry? This session offers an exclusive opportunity to gain insights from Black executives who have reached the C-suite.
Expo Floor Sessions
Just got a job and trying to manage your money? Learn all about investing for young professionals.
Fireside chat with an executive from one of our key sponsors.
Short (20-minute) session on wealth building for new and young MBAs.
Fireside chat with a key influencer from the money space.
Social/Networking Events
Close out Conference at our Friday Night party.
Night owls can keep the party going as we close out this year’s Conference.