Craig Zelizer’s Post

AFROTECH wasn’t just a tech conference to me - it was a powerful reminder of what’s possible when innovation and culture come together! Thank you Dr Naveed Haider and the JHJ School of Business of Texas Southern University for sponsoring Grad students 🫶🏾🫶🏾. To be surrounded be so many brilliant, talented, innovative, respected and beautiful black professionals is necessary, and most definately, good for the soul. Here are my top three takeaways: ⚡️Creating opportunities, not just taking them - the importance of Black entrepreneurship‼️ It’s not just about getting a seat at the table - it’s about building the table and creating opportunities for ourselves and our communities. This message inspired me to think bigger about my own impact. ⚡️ A Celebration of “US” - a celebration of black excellence‼️ From the incredible performances to real, unfiltered conversations, it reminded me that we can, and SHOULD, show up as our authentic selves in any space. Culture, tech, and business can coexist beautifully. Thank you Morgan DeBaun for creating space for this. ❤️ ⚡️ Owning our future in AI - A very smart man once said (see past posts 😉) “it’s a tool - learn to use it!” Derrick Johnson, president of the NAACP, took it further and spoke about the intersection of AI and civil rights. His words were a wake-up call - we must take part in ownership of these tools to ensure they work for our communities, not against them, as they will affect us most. It’s a challenge, but also an incredible opportunity! AfroTech was inspiring, energizing, and deeply affirming! It reminded me that we’re not just here to exist in these spaces - we’re here to lead, innovate, and create lasting change. Finally, I am convinced no one parties like us 😊! We learned, we linked, we laughed and then we line-danced but we took no l’s 💃🏽💃🏽. I can’t wait for next year! #AfroTech2024 #BlackExcellence #Innovation #Entrepreneurship #Tech #Finance #AfroTech #HTX

Do you know a visionary founder, a game-changing investor, or a tech trailblazer? ➡️ There's still time to nominate them for AFROTECH’s 2024 Future 50 list before the 5/1 deadline! The Future 50 celebrates the phenomenal Black minds shaping the future of technology across various categories, and this is our chance to give them the recognition they deserve. Here are the categories: ✍🏾 Dynamic Investor: This recognizes venture capitalists who have made significant contributions to advancing underserved founders in the tech industry. ✍🏾 Future Maker: This recognizes a Black professional for groundbreaking innovation and historical firsts that have a measurable impact on technology and society. ✍🏾 Corporate Catalyst: This recognizes corporate executives who actively promote diversity within their ranks, a core value to all of us here at Blavity Inc. ✍🏾 Changemaker: This honors an individual for significant social impact in the tech industry and their ability to reimagine and improve how we see the world around us. ✍🏾 Visionary Founder: This category acknowledges the accomplishments of a founder who showcases outstanding company growth, a strong dedication toward promoting diversity and inclusion, and recognition in the tech industry. Who comes to mind when you think of these categories? Tag them in the comments and nominate them for this year’s AFROTECH Future 50: https://lnkd.in/e8M5JaP6 #TechCommunity #FutureofTech #TechLeaders #TechForGood

From AFROTECH Thasunda Brown Duckett Says 'The Time Is Now' For Black Professionals To Accumulate AI Skills Over the years, Thasunda Brown Duckett has gained global recognition for her monumental career strides, impact, and influence. As previously reported by AFROTECH™, the TIAA president and CEO’s historic feats include, in 2021, becoming the first woman to lead the financial retirement services company in more than 100 years as well as one of two Black women to helm a Fortune 500 company. What’s more, Duckett was named on Forbes’ list of “The World’s Most Powerful Women” in 2023 and TIME’s “100 Most Influential People of 2024” the following year. ....Duckett told AFROTECH™ that she believes there’s no better time than now for Black professionals to actively tap into the AI industry. “Through the lens of leadership, what’s so important about approaching AI as opportunity is that these are new skills,” she said. “When you think about the opportunity to shift and accumulate higher earnings, to accumulate a different shift on your trajectory, everyone’s at base camp in learning the skills, the certifications.” Join the CEEM Cooperative Economic Empowerment Movement now to harness our AI certification resources and future-proof your business and career. We have a new class this Sunday!! #BlackLeadership #FinancialEmpowerment #WomenCEOs #DiversityandInclusion #GlobalImpact #WealthBuilding #CorporateLeadership #EmpoweringCommunities #InspirationalLeaders #BreakingBarriers #TechDiversity #AIInclusion #BlackInTech #TechEquity #DiverseAI

Black men, this moment in history is critical, and why it's critical is because we have to create leverage that positions us in positions of power so we can help to create opportunities for generations to come. We have an obligation to help change the narrative, the perspectives, and misconceptions that have been shared about us throughout the years. We may not change it completely, but our efforts should make things better for the next generation. With that in mind, as we take advantage of this moment in history, by actively seeking leadership roles and positions of authority, we can ensure that our voices are heard and our perspectives are represented in decision-making processes. This not only empowers us to advocate for the needs and interests of our communities but also enables us to create opportunities and enact positive change on a larger scale. However, achieving sustainable progress and creating lasting opportunities requires more than just obtaining positions of power—it also entails using our influence responsibly and effectively. As leaders, we must prioritize sustainability in our efforts, focusing on initiatives and policies that have long-term benefits and address systemic issues at their roots. By implementing sustainable solutions and fostering inclusive environments, we can pave the way for future generations to thrive and succeed, breaking the cycle of inequality and creating a more equitable society for all. We must lead with integrity. ______________ Visit my website: https://richardacross.com Check out my books and journals + more! ______________ POSITIVELY SHAPING THE FUTURE™ #1millionblackmalestudents #motivation #inspiration #education #mentoring #HBCUsMatter #LeadingWithIntegrity #TheBlackMaleImpact #Blackexcellence #ChallengeCharacterAssasination #PersonalDevelopment #Perspective #Psychology #leadingchange #CulturalTransformation #Knowledge #MillionaireMindset #BlackBoys #changethenarrative #EmotionalIntelligence #PositiveImpact #Book2024 #DrRichardACross #PositiveInfluence #BestVersionOfYourself

🌍✊ Addressing Racism and Recognizing Black Innovators ✊🌍 It's time for a conversation about the systemic racism that still plagues our world. Despite progress, the reality is that racism persists in various forms, hindering opportunities and stifling voices. One glaring area where this inequality persists is in the realm of innovation and entrepreneurship. Black investors and innovators have long been overlooked, and their contributions are often sidelined or outright ignored. But here's the truth: Black innovators are driving change and revolutionizing industries in ways that often go unnoticed. From groundbreaking tech startups to innovative solutions addressing societal challenges, Black entrepreneurs are making waves globally. Yet, their stories remain largely untold, their achievements often overshadowed by systemic barriers and biases. It's time to change that narrative. Let's spotlight Black investors and innovators, celebrating their resilience, creativity, and unwavering determination. Let's amplify their voices, support their endeavors, and create pathways for their success. Together, we can build a more inclusive and equitable world where talent knows no bounds and opportunities are truly accessible to all. It's time to recognize and honor the brilliance of Black innovators, today and every day. #BlackInnovation #Equality #Empowerment #BlackWomenInTech #StartUp #TechStartUp #LGBTQIAOwned #BlackOwened

Meet Morgan DeBaun: the tech-savvy powerhouse who redefined what it means to scale with purpose. She’s the mastermind behind Blavity, AfroTech, and more—platforms that amplify Black voices and create spaces where culture meets innovation. Recognized on Forbes 30 Under 30, America’s Top 50 Women in Tech, and The Root’s 100 Most Influential African Americans, Morgan knows exactly how to build with intention and impact. At ROI: The Millionaire Summit, she’s teaching Step Change Growth: Scaling Your Business Without Sacrificing Yourself. Morgan will break down how to embrace growth, delegate with confidence, and build a business that works for you—not the other way around. If scaling with serenity, purpose, and profit is on your 2025 goals list, you need to be in this room. Ready to learn from one of the best? Get your ticket here: https://hubs.li/Q02ZgZtB0

Championing Bold Change: Building Inclusive Workplaces & Unlocking Potential Tunde Balogun, CEO of CKT Solutions, is on a mission to challenge systemic inequities in direct sales and fundraising. From promoting Black leadership to creating inclusive pathways through initiatives like The Black Board, Tunde is driving transformative change across industries. Discover how fostering diversity and representation isn’t just a moral imperative—it’s the key to unlocking innovation, equity, and economic growth. 🔗 Read the full article to learn more about Tunde's inspiring journey and actionable strategies for creating equitable workplaces: https://lnkd.in/du5ZPtkr #Diversity #Equity #Inclusion #Leadership #Innovation #Entrepreneurship

It’s hard to build wealth when your life is cut short. I attempted to write a post sharing of the many amazing learnings, relationships, and inspiration received from the #BlackTechWeek conference. However, I can’t seem to do this given the news of #SonyaMassey. Could one of her family members or children have been the next tech innovator, co-founder, or COO? I guess we’ll never know. If there’s one thing I’ve learned in my 5 years of supporting minorities in overcoming financial trauma & teaching about epigenetics (the science of genetic trauma), I’ve learned this: 🛑 TRAUMA HALTS THE CREATIVITY PROCESS 🛑 More trauma = less creativity = less opportunity to innovate meaningfully within industry…including technology. I pray that, one day, we live in a society that inhales dignity for all and exhales equity in access. Please keep the family of Sonya Massey in your prayers. Please keep Black women, especially those living alone, in your prayers. Please keep our police departments and their de-escalation trainings in your prayers. While ForOurLastNames does the work to remove financial trauma from one’s wealth journey, I pray our U.S. systems do the work to remove unnecessary traumatic experiences from one’s democratic experience. Thank you Brian Brackeen, Candice Matthews Brackeen, Charlton Cunningham, the entire Black Tech Week team, ecosystem partners like Ashli Sims, Sydni Sayles, & Desiree Frieson of Build in Tulsa, and everyone doing the work behind the scenes for curating an amazing conference. Events like these keep hope alive, even in the face of adversity. Thank you for your ministry work in the marketplace. “Historical awareness is an ongoing condition for human betterment.” - Paulo Freire Imagining a more humane world occurs when we critically engage in topics like these, rather than allow ourselves to be silenced, desensitized, or dissociated. Let’s keep the imaginative work going through critical thought & bold innovation 🙏🏽 #JusticeAndLibertyForAll #SayHerName #BuildingInPublic #EquityTech

Black men, this moment in history calls on us to uphold our values and pursue what will enable true upward mobility—not just for ourselves, but for our communities. Our actions today set the tone for future generations and create pathways that lift up others, bringing hope and possibility where there may have been none. When we compromise on the pursuit of growth, knowledge, or resilience, we limit the impact we can have on the world around us. We owe it to ourselves and those watching us to reach our potential fully and to use our strength, talents, and influence to advocate for positive change. It’s a legacy worth fighting for, even when it demands sacrifices and unwavering determination. Let's keep in mind this isn’t a time for self-centered thinking; it’s a time for purposeful action that resonates beyond our individual lives. Every step we take toward self-improvement, leadership, and community engagement ripples outward, challenging misconceptions, and affirming our value to humanity. By focusing on both personal and collective upliftment, we not only change the narrative surrounding Black men, but we also inspire the next generation to stand tall, unafraid to strive for excellence. In standing together, rooted in shared purpose and values, we redefine what it means to lead and elevate, creating a legacy that truly benefits us all. ______________ Visit my website: https://richardacross.com Check out my books and journals + more! ______________ POSITIVELY SHAPING THE FUTURE™ #1millionblackmalestudents #LifePurpose #mentoring #HBCUsMatter #LeadingWithIntegrity #TheBlackMaleImpact #Blackexcellence #ChallengeCharacterAssasination #BlackMenCollaboration #BlackMen #Impact #leadingchange #CulturalTransformation #HigherEducation #MillionaireMindset #BlackBoys #changethenarrative #EmotionalIntelligence #PositiveImpact #Book2024 #DrRichardACross #PositiveInfluence #OwnYourGreatness #InnerStrength #TrustBuilding #ChallengeTheNarrative #UniteForChange #DismantlingStereotypes

Black men, we must ensure that we are not viewing our power and influence through the lens that society has socially engineered for us. Often, these narratives are designed to limit our perception of what we can achieve, causing us to underestimate our potential and settle for less than we deserve. By recognizing the inherent bias in these narratives, we can begin to dismantle the stereotypes and misconceptions that have been imposed on us. We have the power to redefine our identities and potential, seeing ourselves as strong, capable, and deserving of all the opportunities the world has to offer. By shifting our perspective, we empower ourselves to challenge the status quo and break free from the constraints that society has placed upon us. This requires a conscious effort to embrace our own narratives and redefine success on our own terms. We must look beyond the limitations that have been set for us and recognize the vast potential that lies within. In doing so, we can inspire future generations to see themselves as agents of change, capable of achieving greatness and effecting positive change in their communities. Through this transformation, we not only uplift ourselves but also contribute to a larger movement that seeks to reshape society's perception of Black men and our limitless possibilities. ______________ Visit my website: https://richardacross.com Check out my books and journals + more! ______________ POSITIVELY SHAPING THE FUTURE™ #1millionblackmalestudents #collaboration #unity #anthology #mentoring #HBCUsMatter #LeadingWithIntegrity #TheBlackMaleImpact #Blackexcellence #ChallengeCharacterAssasination #BlackMenCollaboration #BlackMen #Impact #leadingchange #CulturalTransformation #HigherEducation #MillionaireMindset #BlackBoys #changethenarrative #EmotionalIntelligence #PositiveImpact #Book2024 #DrRichardACross #PositiveInfluence #LiterallyAgent #BestVersionOfYourself