One of the most exciting elements of BLACKWEEK LA 2026 was its impressive lineup of industry professionals, creative innovators, entrepreneurs and cultural leaders who participated in thought-provoking discussions across multiple stages at NYA Studios West in Hollywood.
The event brought together accomplished voices from technology, television, film, marketing, sports and entertainment, providing attendees with valuable perspectives on ownership, cultural influence, leadership and the future of business in America. Official Event Website: https://blackweek.co/
Artificial Intelligence, Creativity and the Future of Culture
The panel “AI, Creativity & Culture — Who Shapes What Comes Next?” featured Tommy Oliver of Confluential Films, Bria Alexander of Adobe and Ali Almeflehi of Microsoft Intelligence. Moderated by Jeff Marshall of WPP Media, the discussion explored the growing intersection of artificial intelligence, storytelling and creative innovation.
The program also featured author and marketer Marcus Collins, who delivered the keynote address “Getting to Good Soil,” highlighting the significance of culture in shaping ideas, influence and meaningful connections.
Hollywood Storytelling, Entertainment and Creative Ownership
Entertainment industry conversations included “Culture Calls the Shots,” featuring Malcolm Spellman, showrunner of The Drop, and actor and storyteller Quincy Chad, with moderator Taelor Bakewell of Burson.
Another compelling session, “Telling Black Stories on Our Own Terms,” featured creator and showrunner Felicia Pride alongside Emmy-winning director Nneka Onuorah.
Actor and comedian Tommy Davidson participated in “Culture Has No Expiration Date,” a conversation examining longevity, reinvention and creative ownership, moderated by BLACKWEEK co-founder Walt Geer.
The main stage also welcomed actor and writer Malachi “Mally” White and comedian Lil Rel Howery for “The Elevator Goes Both Ways,” combining a screening, stand-up performance and conversation.
Marketing, Entrepreneurship and Building Cultural Influence
BLACKWEEK’s business discussions emphasized the importance of authentic cultural engagement.
The panel “From the Ground Up — Building a Marketing Engine Without Losing the Culture” featured fashion entrepreneur Sami Miró, Rohan Kumar of Main and Aurora Anthony, founder of 100 Wolves. The conversation was moderated by Ish Traoré of Coral Studios.
Meanwhile, “The Fandom Effect — When Entertainment Becomes Culture” brought together Jackie Day of WPP Media and Codie Oliver of Black Love, with moderator Ezinne Okoro of WPP Group.
Another important discussion, “The Currency of Permission — How Brands Earn the Right to Move Culture,” featured Mike Tresvant of Complex NTWRK and Adrienne Lofton of Google.
These conversations demonstrated how meaningful relationships, cultural understanding and innovative marketing strategies can help businesses grow without compromising authenticity.
Sports, Community and the LA28 Generation
Sports and community development also commanded attention, particularly through “The LA28 Effect — Building a Generation of Girls/Boys in Sports.”
The discussion featured Stephanie Mejia, an NBA agent with WME; Leroy White of The World Is Ours; Rich Orosco of Los Angeles Football Club; and former NBA player and entrepreneur Troy Brown Jr.
The panel, moderated by Andre Gray, explored the opportunities surrounding youth participation, sports development and the cultural influence of Los Angeles as the city prepares for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
The Court Stage further brought sports and business together through basketball networking activities and conversations about entrepreneurship, including “We Don’t Just Ride. We Own the Road,” featuring Rahsaan Bahati of the Bahati Foundation and moderated by BLACKWEEK co-founder Walter Geer.
A Platform for the Next Generation of Creative Leaders
Additional sessions featured beauty entrepreneur Tyra Booker of Rare Beauty, content creator Toni Bravo and model and entrepreneur Salem Mitchell discussing visibility and influence.
Creators Yvanna Bollanga, Madison Suell and Ashley Brooke participated in “Stop Missing the Moment — Confidence, Visibility & Taking Up Space,” moderated by comedian and host LaLa Milan.
Together, these conversations reinforced BLACKWEEK’s commitment to connecting cultural expression with business opportunities, professional development and creative independence.
For WEDGEDIN Magazine, the event demonstrated the extraordinary value of bringing influential voices into one collaborative environment where innovation, storytelling and cultural leadership can inspire the next generation.
Report by Lela Christine
Special News Report
WEDGEDIN Magazine: https://wedgeinmag.com/
