By Faythe Missick – Sustainability Analyst, G&A Institute

The highly anticipated AfroTech 2023 conference recently concluded, leaving attendees inspired, informed, and excited about the future of technology. This annual event, which celebrates and empowers Black entrepreneurs, professionals, and innovators, took place in a vibrant atmosphere filled with groundbreaking ideas, networking opportunities, and thought-provoking discussions. Here are some key takeaways:

Celebrating Black Excellence
AfroTech 2023 showcased the immense talent and creativity emanating from the Black tech community. The event provided a platform for Black entrepreneurs, engineers, designers, and professionals to showcase their innovative products, ideas, and initiatives. Attendees were treated to a multitude of inspiring talks, workshops, and panels led by prominent figures in the tech industry, who shared their journeys, insights, and advice. This celebration of Black excellence served as a reminder that diversity and inclusion are essential for driving meaningful change and progress in the tech world.

Spotlight on Emerging Technologies
One of the highlights of AfroTech 2023 was the exploration of emerging technologies and their potential to transform industries. From artificial intelligence and blockchain to virtual reality and quantum computing, attendees gained valuable insights into the latest advancements and their applications. Experts delved into the ways these technologies can be harnessed to address societal challenges, enhance business operations, and create opportunities for underrepresented communities.

Empowering the Community
AfroTech is not just a conference; it is a catalyst for change and empowerment. The event provided a platform for networking, mentorship, and career development, enabling attendees to connect with industry leaders, potential investors, and like-minded professionals. The conference also featured a career fair, where companies actively sought to recruit diverse talent. This emphasis on creating opportunities for Black professionals and entrepreneurs is crucial for bridging the diversity gap in the tech industry and promoting economic empowerment.

Sustainability and Climate Change
This was the first year that the conference also placed a strong emphasis on sustainability and climate change. Demonstrating AfroTech’s commitment to addressing sustainability challenges and promoting a more environmentally conscious tech industry, the conference featured three speaking events that focused on sustainability and climate change:

• The Future of Environmental Policy, an insightful session exploring key challenges and opportunities in environmental policy, with panelists Michael Regan (EPA Administrator) and Lisa Jackson (VP at Apple).
• Save Our Home Planet Climate Action Plan, addressing the critical issue of climate change and its disproportionate impact on marginalized communities and the less fortunate, with panelists from Patagonia.
• Building a Carbon Negative Future, an inspiring discussion where the panelist Lisa Dyson (Founder and CEO at Air Protein) and James White (Former Chair, President, and CEO at Jamba Juice) delved into innovative approaches and transformative strategies to combat climate change.

The inclusion of sustainability and climate change initiatives at the conference demonstrates the Black community’s commitment to addressing environmental issues and leadership in driving sustainable solutions in the tech industry.

Looking Ahead
As AfroTech 2023 came to a close, the sense of excitement and anticipation for the future of Black innovation and entrepreneurship was palpable. The conference served as a catalyst for change, reinforcing the importance of diversity, inclusion, and empowerment in the tech industry. The impact of AfroTech extends far beyond the event itself, as the connections made and knowledge gained will continue to shape the trajectory of Black excellence in technology.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Faythe Missick – Sustainability Analyst, G&A Institute

Faythe Missick is a Sustainability Analyst at Governance & Accountability Institute. Her role includes supporting clients through gap analyses, peer benchmarking, and ESG data reviews.

Faythe holds Masters degrees in International Business with a focus in Sustainability from the American University of Paris and in International/Comparative Politics from Eastern Illinois University. She is passionate about social impact, specifically financial literacy and environmental awareness in black and brown communities.

Before joining G&A Institute, Faythe worked in the corporate sector as an ESG project manager which involved sustainability reporting and ESG business integration. She also has a professional background in education where she taught World History and International Affairs.