Wharton African American MBA Association

The countdown is over! The WMY51 conference kicks off tomorrow! ?? Check your email for final logistics soon, and join our WhatsApp group for real-time updates, networking, and last-minute details. See you soon!

The official WMY51 schedule is here! ?? Get ready for two days of insightful fireside chats, dynamic panel discussions, networking opportunities, and unforgettable experiences at The Wharton School on February 21-22, 2025. From top industry leaders to engaging breakout sessions, this is an event you don’t want to miss! ???Mark your calendars & plan your sessions! Purchase tickets by 2/19 https://lnkd.in/gp7Rq9Pj

Last but certainly not least, our next panel, “The Business of Influence: Black Creators in the Evolving Creator Economy”, explores how Black creators are shaping culture, driving trends, and redefining digital influence, yet they continue to face unique challenges in monetization, visibility, and platform equity. From TikTok to YouTube to brand partnerships, the creator economy is evolving and Black creators must navigate shifting algorithms, brand deals, and AI-driven content discovery to build sustainable careers. Join us?for a powerful conversation on ownership, innovation, and the future of Black creativity in the digital economy! Featuring insights from industry leaders: Clarke Peoples, Content Creator Jaz Turner, Content Creator William Toms,?Co-Founder, REC Philly Moderated by: Briana Neal, Co-Founder, Her Circle, Co-President, AAMBAA ??? Don’t miss this conversation on how Black creators are pioneering the next chapter in digital influence! Ticket Sales end 2/17? https://lnkd.in/gp7Rq9Pj

Introducing our next panel, “The State of the Consumer”. With Black consumers commanding over $1.6 trillion in spending power, their influence on retail, fashion, and consumer goods has never been more significant. This panel explores how Black professional leadership is shaping the future of these industries—driving trends, redefining brand engagement, and creating new opportunities for Black professionals from the C-suite to the storefront ??? Join us for an insightful conversation with industry titans and market innovators who are transforming how brands connect with Black consumers while paving the way for the next generation of leaders Featuring insights from industry leaders: Busayo Olupona, CEO and Founder, Busayo Simone Kendle, WG Alum, CEO of Wove Fallon Oputa, Head of Community, FORA Eden Zeilo, Head of Marketing, Sienna Naturals Moderated by: Chiso Osuji (Founder, Zena Ziora) https://lnkd.in/gUGWxxge

Introducing our next panel, “Health Equity in Focus: Advancing Black Excellence and Care” ???? The intersection of healthcare and race remains a critical space for change and opportunity. While advancements in medicine and technology continue to shape the industry, Black patients and professionals still face unique challenges in access, outcomes, and representation. Join us for an insightful conversation on how Black professionals are transforming healthcare through leadership, innovation, and advocacy. Featuring insights from industry leaders: Aaron Hopkins, Manager, Digital Innovation Hub, Novo Nordisk Warren Steele, Director & Chief of Staff, Digital & Technology, CVS Lauren Dines, Investor, Tusk Venture Partners Moderated by: Kenya Wright, First Year https://lnkd.in/gUGWxxge

Introducing our next panel, “Business Leaders as Civic Architects: Transforming Local Government Through Corporate Innovation.” In this pivotal election year, while national headlines dominate the discourse, the real engines of community transformation are operating at the local level. From city council members to state legislators, local leaders are making crucial decisions about housing policies, federal funding allocation, and fundamental rights that directly impact our communities. Join us for an insightful discussion on how Black business leaders can leverage their expertise to influence policy decisions, resource allocation, and drive systemic change, embodying the conference’s commitment to Black creativity, influence, and ingenuity in shaping the future of our cities. Featuring insights from industry leaders: Isaac Fordjour, Government Relations, Walgreens Christopher Hollins, Houston City Controller Heather Foster, Senior Director, Head of Global Public Policy, Lyft Inc David Clunie, Head of Community Relations, Edward Jones Moderated by: Morganne Ramsey (Director, Workshops) https://lnkd.in/gUGWxxge

Introducing our next panel, “Diversity at the Tech Frontier.” Over the past decade, emerging technologies like AI, blockchain, clean energy, autonomous vehicles, and space travel have begun reshaping society. Historically, Black professionals have had limited opportunities to define use cases, shape policies, and build wealth in these groundbreaking industries—until now ?????? Join us for a powerful discussion with Black business leaders at the forefront of technological innovation. Learn how to position yourself as a leader in tech and drive the next wave of transformation. Featuring insights from industry leaders: Yasmin Abdi, Founder & CEO, NoHack Jeffrey Reid, Product Manager, Google JR Kanu, Senior Director, Strategic Solutions, C3 AI Moderated by: Zo? Barnswell (Second Year) https://lnkd.in/gUGWxxge

Introducing another powerhouse panel, “The Evolving Intersection of Sports, Business, and Black Leadership.” As the sports industry transforms, the convergence of athletics, finance, and business is becoming increasingly significant. With private equity groups investing in NFL franchises and former athletes transitioning into roles as venture capitalists and team owners, the traditional landscape of sports is evolving ?? Join us for an insightful discussion on how Black athletes and professionals are leveraging their influence, resources, and expertise to shape the future of sports and business. Featuring insights from industry leaders: Cecil White, Agent & Executive Professor Donyale Reavis, VP, Goldman Sachs Jonathon Martin, Former NFL Player Moderated by: Austin Little (VP, Workshops) Grab your tickets before sales end on 2/17! https://lnkd.in/gUGWxxge

We’re thrilled to announce the Small Business Series (SBS) 2025 semi-finalists! These incredible Black-owned businesses in Philadelphia are making waves with their innovation, impact, and entrepreneurial spirit ?? Inspired by Whitney M. Young, Jr.’s vision of equality and economic empowerment, SBS is dedicated to uplifting and supporting local Black entrepreneurs. Stay tuned as we celebrate their journey and the future of Black business excellence! Secure tickets before sales close on 2/17??? https://lnkd.in/gp7Rq9Pj

Introducing another powerhouse panel at the 51st Whitney M. Young Jr. Memorial Conference, “Life after Finance: Alternative Pathways”. These trailblazers will share how they leveraged their skills, experiences, and networks to launch ventures, build businesses, and redefine success on their own terms. Featuring insights from industry leaders: Aren LeeKong, Former CEO of Carlyle BDC | Partner at Dean, Bull & Co. Songe Laron, CEO & Co-founder, Squire Tyson Pratcher, Senior Managing Director, Artemis Real Estate Moderated by: Alexander Deaderick (WMY Director, Workshops) ? Tickets are selling fast! Sales close 2/17—https://lnkd.in/gp7Rq9Pj