(BALTIMORE – February 2, 2025) – The Black Wall Street EXPO 2025 is a dynamic celebration of Black entrepreneurship, economic empowerment, and community leadership. This annual event, hosted by BMORENews.com and partners, brings together business leaders, industry experts, and changemakers to inspire and equip attendees with knowledge, resources, and networking opportunities. Set for Sat., Feb. 22, 2025, from 10 am to 3 pm, at the Downtown Cultural Arts Center (401 N. Howard St. in Baltimore), this event will feature activities for youth and adults. Many thanks to Joseph Brown Funeral Home, Wayne Frazier and the Maryland-Washington Minority Companies Association, Jeffrey Scruggs, Rondy Griffin, Bishop Barry Chapman Pest Control & Bail Bonds.
RSVP to BlackWallStreetEXPO2025.eventbrite.com.
The day kicks off with an opening prayer and welcome address, followed by the Black Wall Street Youth Awards, recognizing young leaders making a difference in business and community impact.
Key highlights include:
🔹 Panel on DBE & MBE in Maryland – A discussion on the challenges and opportunities for minority and disadvantaged business enterprises, featuring top industry leaders.
🔹 Workshops – Sessions such as “How to Write a Book,” led by award-winning author David Miller, and a hands-on experience with Abu the Flutemaker, a musical craftsman known for his innovative instruments.
🔹 Keynote Speaker Dr. Lance London – Founder of The Carolina Kitchen, sharing his entrepreneurial journey and commitment to community service.
🔹 Joe Manns Black Wall Street Awards – Honoring outstanding entrepreneurs, presented by Ertha Harris and Tightknit Network.
🔹 Entrepreneurial Wellness Panel – A powerful discussion on balancing business success with mental and physical well-being.
🔹 Greater Baltimore Real Estate Workshop – A deep dive into investment, development, and wealth-building in the Baltimore region.
🔹 The Business of Sports Panel – Exploring how athletics serve as a business, economic engine, and platform for youth empowerment.
🔹 Fashion Show by Je’Lee and Waaah – A showcase of creativity and cultural expression.
The EXPO concludes with closing remarks, leaving attendees inspired and equipped with actionable insights to advance their businesses and communities. With a powerful mix of education, networking, and celebration, Black Wall Street EXPO 2025 reinforces the legacy of Black Wall Street by promoting economic independence and entrepreneurial excellence.
AGENDA
Black Wall Street EXPO 2025 – Agenda
10:00 AM – Opening Ceremony
- Prayer & Welcome Address
- Opening Speaker
10:30 AM – Black Wall Street Youth Awards
Honoring young leaders making an impact in business, community service, and innovation.
11:00 AM – Panel: The State of DBE & MBE in Maryland
Moderator: Dewan Clayborn
Panelists: Donna Stevenson, Joe Gaskins, Dr. Tecoya Farrakhan, PharmD, MBA, MS, CHC; Dr. Karriem Farrakhan, PharmD, MBA, MS; Bishop Barry Chapman
11:00 AM – 1:00 PM – Workshop: Abu the Flutemaker
A master craftsman and musician, Abu the Flutemaker demonstrates how discarded materials can be transformed into unique musical instruments. He blends creativity with sustainability, embodying the spirit of Kuumba (creativity).
11:00 AM – Workshop: How to Write a Book
Moderator: David Miller, acclaimed children’s book author
Panelists: Nikiea Redmond, Dr. Leroy McKenzie, and Alex Green
A must-attend session for aspiring authors covering writing, publishing, and book sales.
12:00 PM – Keynote Speaker: Dr. Lance London
A culinary visionary and founder of The Carolina Kitchen, Dr. London shares his entrepreneurial journey, community impact, and commitment to giving back.
12:30 PM – Joe Manns Black Wall Street Awards
Presented by Ertha Harris in partnership with Tightknit Network & BMORENews. Recognizing outstanding entrepreneurs and community leaders.
1:00 PM – Entrepreneurial Wellness Panel
Panelists: Kelli Redmond-Bagby, Ashli Moore, Adrienne Barnes, and Delayna Keller-Watkins
Exploring the connection between mental health, physical wellness, and business success.
Key Topics:
🔹 Self-care and leadership
🔹 Managing stress and avoiding burnout
🔹 Baltimore’s impact on wellness
🔹 Wellness as a business strategy
1:00 PM – Greater Baltimore Real Estate Workshop
Moderator: Diane Bell
Panelists: Maria Thorpe, Angelo Cooper, Visionary Ventures Partnership, Cheryl Washington, & Dr. Vonnya Pettigrew
A deep dive into real estate investment, development, and wealth-building opportunities in Baltimore.
2:00 PM – The Business of Sports
Panelists: Troy Hackley, Choo Smith, & Jamal Atkins
A discussion on how sports serve as a business, an economic driver, and a tool for youth empowerment.
2:30 PM – Joe Manns Black Wall Street Awards
Fashion Show by Je’Lee and Waaah
A showcase of innovative fashion and cultural expression.
3:00 PM – Closing Remarks
