Kiah Imani

As AfroTech kicks off in Austin, the tech industry is buzzing with excitement. This conference is dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusion in the tech sector and provides a space for Black women to share their stories and connect with one another. AfroTech is changing the tech industry landscape, and we can’t wait to see what the future holds.

In the meantime, let’s explore how AfroTech is paving the way for a more diverse and inclusive future for all.

What is AfroTech and why is it important for the Black community to attend and participate in tech events like this one?

AfroTech is a community-focused tech event that provides a platform for Black technologists to connect, learn, and grow. Attendees can participate in workshops, listen to panel discussions, and other events that cover a wide range of topics related to technology and its impact on the Black community. AfroTech also offers opportunities for networking and career development, making it an important event for Black professionals in the tech industry. By attending AfroTech, Black technologists can gain the skills and connections they need to move up in their careers and make a positive impact on their community.

What can attendees expect from AfroTech this year, and who will be speaking/performing at the event?

AfroTech is one of the most highly-anticipated events of the year for tech professionals, entrepreneurs, and enthusiasts alike. This year’s event will be packed with even more programming, networking opportunities, and mind-blowing technology than ever before. Attendees can expect to hear from some of the most influential leaders in the tech industry, learn about the latest innovations in AI and VR, and network with like-minded individuals from all over the world. Additionally, AfroTech will feature an eclectic mix of musical performances and DJ sets, ensuring that there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Ok, so who exactly is speaking and performing?

This year’s AfroTech will feature an impressive lineup of speakers and performers, including:

• Hope Wiseman, Founder and CEO of WISECO, a cannabis CPG (consumer packaged goods) portfolio & holding co with assets in MD & Puerto Rico
• Ryan Wilson, Founder & CEO of The Gathering Spot,  a members-only social club & co-working space in Atlanta
• Panelists from companies like American Express, Apple, Intuit, and more
• Musical performances by Hip-hop artists Bas, BIA, Wale, and much, much more!

So whether you’re looking to learn about the latest advances in technology or just want to have a good time, AfroTech is the place to be.

How has the Black community been involved in tech historically, and what progress has been made so far in terms of diversity in the industry overall?

Throughout history, the Black community has made significant contributions to the field of technology. In the early days of computing, Black mathematicians and computer scientists such as Dorothy Vaughan, Rayford Logan, and Ernestine Cook Brooks played a vital role in developing the technology that we use today. In recent years, there has been a growing movement to increase diversity in the tech industry. While progress has been made in terms of representation, there is still a long way to go. Black people are still vastly underrepresented in the field, and there is a need for more Black-owned tech companies and startups. Nevertheless, the Black community continues to make its mark on the tech world, with innovative companies and products that are changing the way we live and work. As we move into the future, it is clear that the Black community will continue to be a driving force in the field of technology.

Why do you think it’s important for Black people to get involved in tech, both as consumers and creators of technology products and services?

As the world becomes increasingly driven by technology, it’s more important than ever for Black people to get involved in tech. We need to be active participants in shaping the future of technology, both as consumers and creators. Technological advancements have always been a double-edged sword for our community. On one hand, they have led to greater opportunities and upward mobility. On the other hand, they have also been used to perpetuate racism and discrimination. For example, facial recognition technology is often biased against Black people, leading to false arrests and other mistakes. If we want to ensure that technology is used for good, we need to be at the table when new products and services are created. We also need community-based initiatives that provide technical training and education. By getting involved in tech, we can help create a more equitable future for our community and our world.

How can we encourage more young Black people to pursue careers in tech, and what resources are available to help them get started?”

According to a recent study, only 1% of tech startups are founded by Black people. This stat is especially troubling when you consider that Black people make up 13% of the US population. So what can be done to encourage more young Black people to pursue careers in tech?

One way to get more young Black people interested in tech is to show them that it’s a viable and rewarding career option. AfroTech is a great resource for this; it’s a website and conference that celebrates Black excellence in tech. Through AfroTech, young Black people can see that there are successful Black people in tech and that they too can have successful careers in this industry.

There are also a number of resources available to help young Black people get started in tech careers. Code2040 is an organization that helps underrepresented minorities get into top-tier tech jobs. They offer a number of programs and resources, including internships, scholarships, and mentorship opportunities. There are also a number of coding bootcamps that offer need-based scholarships, like Flatiron School and Hack Reactor.

Ultimately, it’s up to us as a society to create an environment where young Black people feel welcome and encouraged to pursue careers in tech. But with the right resources in place, we can start making headway on this important issue.

Conclusion paragraph: AfroTech is coming up soon and I’m super bummed that I’m going to miss it, but it’s important that the Black tech community attend and participate in this event. Attendees can expect to learn about upcoming technology trends, hear from inspiring speakers, and network with other Black professionals in the industry. The Black community has been involved in tech historically, but there’s still progress to be made when it comes to diversity in the industry overall. That’s why it’s so important for Black people to get involved in tech, both as consumers and creators of technology products and services. If you’re interested in pursuing a career in tech, there are plenty of resources available to help you get started, and you’ll find a plethora of those resources in Austin at AfroTech 2022.

Are you going to AfroTech this year? What do you hope to achieve? Who do you hope to meet? Let me know in the comments.