If you’ve never heard of CultureCon, let us catch you up. This annual conference, created by Imani Ellis and powered by The Creative Collective NYC, is a meeting ground for Black creatives and entrepreneurs—more than a conference; it’s a celebration of Black excellence.
Reclaiming Creative Power
The creative industry can be challenging for Black professionals. While we drive trends and shape culture, many of us remain behind the scenes rather than in positions of power and influence. CultureCon flips this narrative by creating a space where we’re not just participants but the main event.
Hommage Design Experiences at CultureCon
This year’s CultureCon at the Brooklyn Navy Yard was nothing short of amazing. The sight of thousands of us together—sharing ideas, enjoying fireside chats, networking, and electric sliding —was beautiful. For Hommage Design Experiences, a Black woman-owned business, our attendance was essential. When we’re not bringing events and activations to life ourselves, we’re researching, networking, and building our vendor and talent network. CultureCon was an opportunity to expand our network with talented professionals across industries. From designers and photographers to producers and stylists, the talent in attendance was by and large unmatched.
It was a reminder of Issa Rae’s advice to network laterally, not just upward. Meeting fellow creatives, entrepreneurs, and visionaries provided hope that the work we do matters— there is a whole community of people that deserve elevated experiences that are accessible for them. Designers launching collections need a trusted partner to help them bring their events to life, Black women are eager to travel solo and want to see the world through a different lens, and we all want to comfortably indulge in little luxuries from time to time—all anyone especially wants is assistance how.
Progress in the Making
What particularly stood out was the involvement of major brands like Warner Bros./Discovery, Amazon, and Verizon. Their vibrant activations were a clear acknowledgment of our collective influence. While the depth of their diversity initiatives remains to be seen, their presence signaled progress and a growing respect for our collective power.
Let’s Keep Building Together
At Hommage Design Experiences, we’re inspired to keep creating spaces that amplify our voices and leave lasting impressions. Let’s build magic together too —reach out today.
In Summary
- Overall Experience: Inspiring
- Pre-Weekend Events & Activations: Empowering
- Tems’ Closing Performance: The perfect exclamation point to an unforgettable weekend
