#Forbesblk

FORBESBLK SUMMIT (3rd annual)

Now who is Forbesblk? Forbes says it best- "Today’s Challenges, Tomorrow’s Opportunity: A New Path To Economic Prosperity". DaeTai Production is a proud member of Forbesblk and have been a member since the creation of this space within Forbes that focuses on Black excellence. There is power in Black! Although we all have been placed into groups, it does not exclude all who makes up the human race. The division that has been placed among people only serve notice to hate and prove just how great we are regardless of the division. The highly anticipated summit took place from October 8-10, 2025, bringing together a vibrant community of influential leaders, entertainers, and activists. At the heart of this gathering was the ever charismatic Jabari Young, Senior Writer & ForbesBLK Editorial Lead and the beautiful soft spoken community leader of Forbesblk, Ayisha Mendez, who consistently presents themselves as a friend and ally to many. His genuine approach fosters an atmosphere of camaraderie and collaboration among participants. Kicking off the summit, ForbesBLK organized a meaningful Service Day, during which attendees rolled up their sleeves to partner with Atlanta's Habitat for Humanity, Clark's University, and Camp Timber Ridge.

This initiative set a tone of service and connection, reminding everyone of their shared commitment to uplifting their community. Throughout the conference, attendees were treated to insights and discussions led by some of today’s most prominent figures. Notable speakers included Stephen A. Smith, the renowned sports commentator known for his engaging and often provocative discourse. The business world was represented by Robert Smith of Vista Equity Partners, who shared his perspective on investment and innovation. John Hope Bryant of Operation Hope lent his expertise in economic empowerment, while Don Peebles of The Peebles Corporation spoke about entrepreneurial success and real estate. Entertainment was not left behind, with the presence of Wyclef Jean, Earl "E-40" Stevens, and Kandi Burruss, who captivated audiences with their artistry and experiences in the music industry. Sandra Phung from Ford Motor Company and Tina Davis from Empire also contributed valuable insights from their respective fields, emphasizing the importance of diversity and inclusion in corporate environments. The event garnered attention from Atlanta's Mayor Andre Dickens, who addressed the gathering about the city's growth and the importance of community engagement. His participation further underscored the collaborative spirit of the summit, which was supported by generous sponsors including AFCRA, Goldman Sachs, the Business of Good Foundation, and Wells Fargo. The night ended with the band Ochestra Noir, Atlanta's Black orchestra, taking us back to some of the greatest old school melodies. Overall, the 2025 summit was a resounding success, blending service, empowerment, and celebration, making it a landmark event for all who attended.