Fireside Chat: Advancing Our Community Through Business and Influence
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Donovan Woodberry
Email: info@celebrationofus.org
Fireside Chat: Advancing Our Community Through Business and Influence
Washington, D.C. — January 27, 2025 — At a time when unity and empowerment within the Black community are more important than ever, MelaninCon is proud to present “Advancing Our Community Through Business and Influence” — a fireside chat that promises to inspire, uplift, and mobilize. Taking place on April 25, 2025, at 3:00 PM EST at the MLK Library in Washington, D.C., this conversation will bring together visionary leaders who are building bridges, breaking barriers, and advancing the power of Black excellence.
With Ken Fisk moderating, this intimate and impactful discussion will explore how we, as a community, can use business, creativity, and influence as tools to create lasting change, empower one another, and claim our rightful space in the world.
Featured Voices
Nicholas I. Wiggins
Nicholas I. Wiggins is a creative powerhouse, shaping conversations around culture and influence. As Managing Director of Values Partnerships, the country’s largest 100% Black-owned social impact agency, and Founder of NIW Design, Nicholas is a master at crafting strategies that amplify Black excellence. From co-founding the 4 The Culture Brunch to serving on the NAACP Image Awards Committee, his work uplifts our voices and builds spaces for connection and innovation.
Ebonie Riley
A trailblazer in every sense of the word, Ebonie Riley is Senior Vice President of Policy and Strategic Partnerships at the National Action Network (NAN) — and the highest-ranking woman in the organization’s history. Her commitment to fighting for equity, addressing systemic disparities, and creating pathways for our communities is a testament to her unwavering belief in the power of advocacy and partnership to move us forward.
Trell Thomas
Trell Thomas has spent his career celebrating and uplifting Black stories. As the founder of the Black Excellence Brunch, Trell creates spaces where Black brilliance is honored and shared. Through initiatives like his documentary series, Profile the Black Man, he continues to challenge stereotypes and spotlight the beauty, resilience, and leadership that define our people.
Tyrell M. Holcomb
Tyrell M. Holcomb is deeply rooted in the fight for equity and opportunity in Washington, D.C. As Chairperson of Advisory Neighborhood Commission 7F01, he works to empower underserved communities, ensuring their voices are heard and their futures are brighter. Tyrell’s leadership is a powerful example of what it means to give back and build up the places we call home.
A Call to Action
This is more than just a conversation. It’s an opportunity to tap into the brilliance, resilience, and power within our community. It’s a moment to learn from those who have walked the walk and are blazing trails for others. Together, we’ll explore how to harness our influence, transform our businesses, and uplift our people.
Event Details
Date: April 25, 2025
Time: 3:00 PM EST
Location: MLK Library, Washington, D.C.
About MelaninCon
MelaninCon is a celebration of Black ingenuity, creativity, and determination. It’s a space where entrepreneurs, innovators, and community leaders come together to inspire, connect, and transform. At its core, MelaninCon is about us: our stories, our successes, and our future.
Join us as we continue the work of building, dreaming, and thriving — together.
For media inquiries, contact Donovan Woodberry at info@celebrationofus.org.
