A Full Circle Moment at the AI ML Hackathon in SF

Attending the AI ML Hackathon in San Francisco this week was an inspiring experience, filled with innovation, creativity, and unexpected reunions. One of the highlights of the event was running into Wayne Sutton , a friend who played a pivotal role in my journey over the past decade. Our paths first crossed in 2009 at SXSW, and together with a third cofounder, Angela Benton , we launched the NewMe Accelerator in Silicon Valley, the first accelerator focused on Black founders in 2010.

A Reunion with a Friend and Mentee ??

Wayne Sutton and I met 14 years ago at SXSW. At the time, I was already a serial entrepreneur and investor, passionate about supporting underrepresented founders. Wayne was eager to make an impact, and I saw in him a spark that needed nurturing. Together, with Angela Benton, we co-founded the NewMe Accelerator , breaking new ground and creating opportunities for many Black founders in tech.

Seeing Wayne at the hackathon was more than just a reunion; it was a reminder of how far we've come and the importance of mentorship and community in nurturing the next generation of innovators. Wayne has continued to grow and make significant contributions, and I couldn't be prouder of the journey we’ve shared. ??

PAI Palooza and Mentoring- Next Generation ??

I was at the AI ML Hackathon to promote the upcoming PAI Palooza Tour AI Hackathon and Tech Fair, an event dedicated to pushing the boundaries of artificial intelligence. PAI Palooza Tour is set to tour 10 cities, with more in the planning stages, offering a fantastic platform for innovation and collaboration.

During the event, Wayne had the pleasure of sitting down with my new mentee, Allen Smith from Musa Capital . Allen is a bright and driven individual, eager to make his mark in the world of venture capital. Our conversation was rich with insights and experiences that I hope will guide him on his journey. ??

We discussed the importance of diversity in tech, the rapid advancements in AI and machine learning, and the unique challenges and opportunities that Black founders face. It was a full-circle moment, from nurturing Wayne to now mentoring Allen, and it underscored the power of community and support in achieving success. ??

Insights for Black Founders ??

Here are some key takeaways from our conversation that I believe are crucial for Black founders:

1. Embrace Diversity: Diverse teams bring unique perspectives and innovative solutions. Embrace and celebrate diversity within your team to foster creativity and drive success.

2. Leverage Mentorship: Seek out mentors who can provide guidance, support, and valuable connections. Mentorship is a two-way street, offering learning and growth opportunities for both mentors and mentees. ??

3. Stay Agile and Adaptive: The tech industry is rapidly evolving, especially in fields like AI and machine learning. Stay agile, be open to learning, and adapt quickly to new trends and technologies. ??

4. Build a Strong Network: Networking is vital. Attend events, join communities, and build relationships with peers, mentors, and industry leaders. A strong network can open doors and provide opportunities that might otherwise be out of reach. ??

5. Access to Capital: Understanding the landscape of venture capital is crucial. Learn how to pitch your ideas effectively, and seek out investors who are committed to supporting diverse founders. ??

A Call to Action ??

As we continue to support and uplift Black founders, developers, & product managers. I encourage you to register for the PAI Palooza Tour a AI Hackathon and Tech Fair. This event is coming to 10 cities and more, offering an incredible opportunity to innovate, learn, and connect with the tech community.

Register Now: Link to Registration ??

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By staying connected and informed, you can leverage these resources to drive your entrepreneurial journey forward. Let's continue to build a strong, supportive community where Black founders can thrive and make a significant impact in the tech industry. ?

Interested in participating, sponsoring, mentoring, or volunteering, or hosting an event in your city, schedule a call with me or Karsten Wade !

Let's connect and innovate together! ?? #PaiPalooza #AIRevolution #TechInnovation #StartUpWeekend #BuildTheFuture #Hackathon2024 #AI #ML #Hackathon #Mentorship #BlackFounders #DiversityInTech #Innovation #CommunityBuilding #VentureCapital #MusaCapital #OGsandLPs #PAIPalooza