On Thursday 10th October, Black Tech Fest 2024 (BTF) concluded with a vibrant showcase of innovation, diversity, and cultural expression, establishing itself as Europe’s premier tech event celebrating Black excellence. With over 7,000 tickets sold, the event brought together thousands of attendees, from students to seasoned professionals, to engage with cutting-edge developments across technology, culture, and gaming. This year's BTF, featured five key stages: the Ignite Stage, Tech & DEI Stage, Build Stage, Futures Summit, and Game Lounge, highlighting the significant contributions of Black professionals in tech.
One of the major focus points this year was the role of Black talent in driving tech innovation. With speakers like Terence Guiamo, Global Director of Inclusion at Just Eat, and Akintayo Opatayo from Dojo, discussions at BTF centred on how organisations can harness diverse perspectives to create more flexible responsive, and innovative products. Both leaders highlighted the importance of fostering inclusive environments that empower minority communities to thrive in tech roles.
A key message from these sessions was the need for systemic changes across recruitment, workplace culture, and educational outreach to close the representation gap in tech. Speakers urged companies to rethink their hiring practices and commit to long-term efforts to support underrepresented groups, from mentorship programs to equitable pay.
Empowering the Next Generation
In line with its mission to uplift the next generation of tech professionals, BTF 2024 partnered with organisations like the Black Apprentice Network and Beyond Education to offer hands-on learning opportunities and career development sessions. This focused on education and skill-building is critical to ensuring that young Black professionals have access to the opportunities and mentorship they need to succeed in tech.
With a mix of tech showcases, thought-provoking discussions, and cultural experiences, BTF 2024 made it clear that diversity is not just a goal but a necessity for innovation. The festival has once again proven that tech’s future is brighter and more inclusive when it reflects the full spectrum of human experiences.
Startups Leading the Way
The BUILD Summit’s sessions tackled issues facing today's entrepreneurs, from navigating the complexities of venture capital and securing funding to building profitable businesses in a challenging economic climate. Experts shared insights on the evolving tech landscape, with discussions ranging from the future of investment banking to the impact of AI on the music industry and the exciting potential of health tech innovation.
One particularly engaging panel discussion, "Does Every Start-up Need to be an AI Startup?", explored into the complexities of AI integration. Experts debated the necessity of incorporating AI into every business model, weighing the potential benefits against the challenges and costs. This session provided valuable insights for startups dealing with the decision of whether and how to leverage AI in their operations.
"Building a Successful Startup" offered attendees a roadmap for entrepreneurial success. Experienced founders shared their journeys and insights, covering key topics such as defining a target audience, building a strong team, and developing effective marketing strategies.
The summit also provided a platform for promising startups to pitch their ideas to investors, offering a glimpse into the future of Black-led innovation. This opportunity not only allowed entrepreneurs to gain valuable feedback and potential funding but also showcased the diverse range of innovative ideas emerging from the Black tech community.
Fireside Chat with Rapman and BHM Party: A Celebration
Interactive gaming sessions also created a fun, relaxed environment, allowing people to engage with the latest tech trends while enjoying music, food, and community spirit. This fusion of technology, culture, and entertainment created a truly unique festival atmosphere that celebrated both innovation and inclusivity.
The day wrapped up with a thought-provoking fireside chat with Rapman, who shared his journey from grassroots filmmaker to creator of the successful Netflix-series, Supercell. His story of resilience and creative vision resonated deeply with attendees, underscoring the importance of diverse voices in the tech and creative industries. He passionately discussed his aim to raise awareness of Sickle Cell disease, a condition affecting many in minority communities.
As the day came to a close, everyone came together to celebrate the day's success at the Black History Month (BHM) Party, featuring energentic DJ sets by Nairaa and Remi Burgz.
Black Tech Fest 2024 was more than just a tech conference; it served as a driving force for change, proving that diversity isn't merely an aspiration, but a necessity for true progress. By seamlessly blending cutting-edge technology with vibrant cultural experiences, the festival created a safe space where inclusion and innovation thrived. BTF 2024 sent a resounding message: a future where technology truly benefits everyone is a future built by everyone.
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