The program kicks off with a warm welcome from Olushola Aina, followed by an inspiring keynote address by Dr. Patrick Njoroge. Throughout the day, attendees can look forward to engaging panel discussions on topics such as “Africa and Global Venture Capital” and “Talent Acquisition for African Startups.” These sessions offer invaluable insights into the strategies fueling Africa’s economic growth.

In addition to thought-provoking talks, the event offers ample networking opportunities. A highlight is the invite-only wine reception, designed to foster connections among entrepreneurs, investors, and industry leaders.

Don’t miss this chance to engage with the forefront of African innovation. Whether you’re an investor, entrepreneur, or enthusiast, the Yale Africa Startup Review is the place to be for anyone interested in the future of Africa’s market landscape.

For more information and to register, visit Yale Africa Startup Review 2024 on Eventbrite.

Although the word diaspora has a wide range of definitions (271, according to the World Bank), this event is interested in anyone of African heritage, including those of African-American background, and advances the respective communities.

Fanta Traore, Yale MPP ‘24, who coordinated and named the weekend, described it as a means to “uplift and maximize the communal prowess evident in Yale’s student and alumni population that can be further amplified through collaboration.”

Encouraging the Building of our Own Tables

As former Editor in Chief of the Yale Africa Start Up Review (YASR) and current Director of Strategy & Operations for the Yale Black Venture Summit, Traore shared: “It’s abundantly clear that the diaspora has a critical role in Africa, but also in the United States. Whether the conversation is about the African diaspora in the United States or diasporans and entrepreneurs focused on Africa, many of the challenges are the same for both communities. For instance, venture capital funding goes to less than 1% of Black founders in the United States, and in Africa, many venture-backed founders are non-African (for instance in Kenya, 6% of founders who received funding in 2019 were African). This weekend is meant to support the conversations and collaborations that will change the tide towards supporting communities with a shared history by encouraging the building of our own tables. ”

The Yale Black Venture Summit would not be possible without its’ platinum, gold, and silver sponsors supporting the pitch competition prizes, roundtables, and networking reception:

CTNext under Onyeka Obiocha’s leadership (platinum), Tsai City in collaboration with Zoe Hunter (gold), and the Community Foundation of Greater New Haven with Arthur Thomas (silver).

To attend the Yale Black Venture Summit, register here.

Building a Prosperous, Inclusive Black Ecosystem

Malcolm Cardona-Spence, Yale MBA ‘24, YBVS Co-Chair “We are grateful for the support of the New Haven community for allowing us the opportunity to foster and celebrate black entrepreneurship. As a leader of the Black Business Alliance at the Yale School of Management, the gaps in access and equity across the city are clear in my purview. Deeper still, with Afro-Caribbean and Afro-Latino roots, the lack of infrastructure to support links between our people has created an evident compounding divide. Through our sponsors, speakers, vendors, residents, and students, together we will demystify these spaces and invite the community to build momentum towards a prosperous, inclusive, and black entrepreneurial ecosystem.”

The event is also supported by Techstars (Oklahoma), and The Prosperity Foundation based in New Haven, CT.

On YASR, Kemi Kakonge-Ruyondo, Yale MEM ’25 (at the Yale School of the Environment), and YASR team member notes the following: “Africa is uniquely vulnerable to climate change, despite, the tension between environmental conservation and development in Sub-Saharan Africa. As a Ugandan graduate student, I am proud to be part of the 2024 team. YASR’s continued interest in agritech, sustainable food systems, and cleantech startups is evident in this year’s top 30 startups, venture capitalist investment areas, and founders’ foci. The time has come for all players to play their part in influencing sustainable business opportunities on the African continent.

Sponsors for the Yale Africa Start-Up Review include the Council of African Studies, Tsai CITY, The Jackson School of Global Affairs, Center for Business and Environment Yale,

To attend the Yale Africa Start-Up Review, register here.

The entrepreneurial landscape is vibrant with diversity, and the Yale Black Venture Summit (BVS) stands at the forefront, spotlighting and empowering Black founders, investors, and ecosystem builders. Scheduled for April 26, 2024, at the prestigious Yale School of Management (SOM) in New Haven, Connecticut, the summit promises a day filled with insightful discussions, networking opportunities, and a thrilling pitch competition.

The summit kicks off with an Opening Reception on April 25th, setting the stage for what promises to be an enriching event. Gary Stewart, Managing Director at Techstars NYC, will deliver the Morning Keynote, delving into the Black VC journey and sharing invaluable insights from his experience.

Throughout the day, attendees will have the opportunity to participate in engaging sessions covering topics crucial to entrepreneurial success. From founder panels discussing challenges and strategies to lunch sessions featuring culinary delights from Sandra’s Next Generation, the agenda is designed to cater to various interests and needs.

One of the highlights of the summit is the $20,000 Pitch Competition, where hand-picked finalists will showcase their innovative ideas and vie for non-dilutive capital. Esteemed judges will evaluate the pitches, adding an element of excitement and anticipation to the event.

Andre Swanston, CEO & Chairman at Swanston Labs, will deliver the Afternoon Keynote, providing attendees with further inspiration and food for thought. The summit will also offer ample networking opportunities, allowing participants to connect with like-minded individuals, potential collaborators, and mentors.

Located at the Yale School of Management, the summit benefits from the institution’s rich academic environment and strategic location in New Haven, Connecticut. With its commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and innovation, Yale SOM provides an ideal backdrop for the summit, reflecting its dedication to diversity and inclusion.

The Yale Black Venture Summit is more than just a conference; it’s a celebration of Black ingenuity, resilience, and innovation. By bringing together a diverse community of founders, investors, and ecosystem builders, the summit aims to catalyze meaningful change and drive positive impact in the entrepreneurial landscape.

As we look forward to April 26th, let us come together to maximize momentum, amplify voices, and forge connections that will shape the future of Black entrepreneurship. Join us at the Yale Black Venture Summit and be part of a transformative journey towards a more inclusive and prosperous entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Bella Reign, the enigmatic songstress behind the album, has captivated audiences with her powerful vocals and poignant lyrics. “Madam” serves as a testament to her artistic evolution, showcasing a fusion of genres and a depth of emotion that resonates with listeners on a profound level.

The event, set to kick off at 8:00 pm, will feature a performance by Bella Reign herself, accompanied by a live band that promises to elevate the music to new heights. From soulful ballads to infectious beats, attendees can expect a dynamic and immersive experience that transcends the boundaries of traditional album release parties.

Tickets for the event are priced at $10, offering fans the opportunity to witness Bella Reign’s musical prowess up close and personal. Upon arrival, guests will be greeted by the staff at Gryphon’s Pub, who will guide them to the event space upstairs, where the magic of “Madam” awaits.

As the clock ticks closer to 8:30 pm, anticipation mounts, and the air buzzes with excitement. Friends and fans alike gather to celebrate Bella Reign’s musical journey and the culmination of months of hard work and dedication poured into the creation of “Madam.”

For Bella Reign, the album release party represents more than just a chance to showcase her music; it’s a moment of connection, a celebration of creativity, and a testament to the transformative power of art. As she takes the stage and the first notes of “Madam” fill the air, a sense of unity washes over the crowd, binding them together in shared admiration and appreciation for the music.

In a world where music serves as a universal language, Bella Reign’s “Madam” speaks volumes. It’s a testament to her talent, her passion, and her unwavering commitment to her craft. And as the final chords fade into the night, leaving echoes of inspiration in their wake, one thing becomes clear: Bella Reign’s album release party isn’t just an event—it’s an experience that will be remembered long after the music stops. Get tickets here

The event featured workshops on safe sleep for babies and postpartum mental health, alongside support from local organizations such as the Brooklyn Diaper Project and the Brownsville Multiservice Health Center. Attendees left with diaper bags packed full of supplies, reflecting a community-led effort to bridge the gaps in maternal healthcare. Reynoso’s dedication to this cause underscores a commitment to supporting growing families and fostering a healthier future for Brooklyn’s newest residents. Read more

Featuring sessions on topics ranging from the Bhagavad Gita to the trauma of caste and the indigenous roots of yoga, attendees can expect a holistic and immersive experience. Each session offers opportunities for deepening understanding, dismantling barriers, and honoring the diversity and unity inherent in yoga’s ancient practice. By celebrating underrepresented voices and recognizing yoga’s interconnectedness with broader social and cultural issues, “Amplify Voices of the Global Majority: The Roots of Yoga” promises to be a transformative journey of exploration, education, and connection. Rsvp here

Notable picks included Caitlin Clark, whose exceptional talent and record-breaking collegiate performance earned her the top spot as the No. 1 pick to the Indiana Fever. Alongside her, Cameron Brink’s selection as the No. 2 pick to the Los Angeles Sparks highlighted the depth of talent in the draft class. With the WNBA’s 2024 season set to commence on May 14, excitement continues to build as these emerging stars prepare to make their mark on the professional basketball stage. Read more

In addition to PitchBLACK, audiences are encouraged to engage with the Sam Pollard Film Retrospective screenings, curated by Engagement Manager Eboni Johnson-Kaba. This retrospective offers a diverse selection of Pollard’s films, accompanied by opportunities for virtual and in-person discussions with the acclaimed filmmaker. Meanwhile, AfroPoP enthusiasts can anticipate the premiere of “Kati Kati,” a compelling drama by Kenyan filmmaker Mbithi Masya, alongside a Director’s Roundtable discussion featuring Masya and other Season 16 filmmakers.

Lastly, filmmakers addressing climate issues are invited to apply for the Redford Center’s Open Call. With a focus on environmental nonfiction feature films or docuseries at any stage of development, production, or post-production, this presents a valuable opportunity for storytellers passionate about environmental advocacy. As Black Public Media continues to foster and support projects centered on the Black experience, the upcoming PitchBLACK Forum and Awards program promises to be an unforgettable celebration of creativity and community engagement. Rsvp here

In addition to the appointment of a secular monitor, the settlement mandates the creation of new offices within the Diocese, streamlining of complaint processes, and the development of tailored prevention plans for accused clergy members. These measures are aimed at fostering accountability, rebuilding trust within the community, and prioritizing the protection of victims. The settlement represents a significant step forward in addressing the grave issues of clergy sexual abuse, signaling a commitment to comprehensive reforms and safeguarding the well-being of all members of the Brooklyn Diocese. Read more

These challenges stem from a series of allegations ranging from sex trafficking investigations to lawsuits from former associates, including accusations of sexual abuse and coercion from his ex-girlfriend Cassie. Amidst these legal woes, Combs’ once-thriving partnership with Diageo, which encompassed brands like Cîroc and DeLeon, dissolved after mutual lawsuits and allegations of neglect and discriminatory practices. Furthermore, Combs’ media venture, Revolt TV, saw him selling his remaining stake, signaling a further unraveling of his business empire amidst mounting legal and reputational challenges. Read more