On Thursday 10th October 2024, BTF 2024 (Black Tech Fest) was a vibrant display of innovation, diversity, and cultural expression, positioning itself as the premier tech event celebrating Black excellence. Bringing Europe's largest tech and culture gathering, this year’s event, held in Drumsheds, London, showcased a spectacular blend of innovation, inclusivity, and thought leadership. Thousands of attendees, ranging from students to professionals, gathered to engage with cutting-edge developments across tech, culture, gaming, and more.
Diverse Speakers and Thought Leaders
One of the highlights of BTF 2024 was its incredible lineup of speakers from across various industries. Attendees had the opportunity to hear from influential figures such as Mina Al-Khudairy, who leads the UKI Life Science & Industrial Sector at Avanade, and Ivy Grant, Senior VP of Corporate Strategy at Twilio. These leaders provided insights into how technology is transforming sectors like life sciences, banking, and communications, and explored the importance of embracing diversity within these spaces.
"Unapologetically Savvy! Owning the Global Tech Space, Against the Odds" fireside chat was beyond insightful and inspirational. Featuring trailblazing tech leaders Fern Johnson, former CTO at PepsiCo, and Yvette Schmitter, Partner at PwC, the session dived into their phenomenal journeys and experiences in navigating the often challenging landscape of the tech industry. Johnson and Schmitter shared their personal stories of overcoming obstacles, defying expectations, and redefining leadership, inspiring attendees with their resilience, determination, and unwavering belief in their abilities. Their insights into the importance of inclusivity, diversity, and mentorship resonated deeply with the audience, encouraging everyone to strive for their own success and break down the barriers that still exist in the tech industry.
Innovative Tech and Startup Showcases
BTF 2024 also served as a platform for emerging startups to showcase their work. The BUILD Summit allowed new tech companies to pitch their ideas to potential investors and collaborators. With participation from investors like Dan Idhenga, Partner at London Venture Capital Network, and Akintayo Opatayo, Senior Product Manager at Dojo, these sessions empowered entrepreneurs to connect with the resources they need to scale their ventures.
Gaming, AI, and fintech were among the key sectors represented, with demos highlighting the intersection of technology and culture. Particularly notable was the rise of gaming and entertainment platforms that are committed to representing marginalised communities, ensuring that Black creators and innovators are part of the industry’s growth.
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Ignite Summit
The Ignite Summit at Black Tech Fest 2024 set the stage for a day of thought-provoking discussions and insightful explorations into the future of technology. Kicking off with a warm welcome address, attendees were immersed in a vibrant atmosphere of innovation and collaboration. The summit quickly delved into the heart of the matter with a session on "Digital Transformations & Emerging Technologies," where experts unpacked the latest advancements shaping the industry, from the rise of AI to the evolving landscape of cybersecurity.
Attendees were also treated to an interesting discussion with Zeze Millz, an influential social media personality and cultural commentator. Known for her candid conversations on race, identity, and social issues, Millz brought her unique perspective to the stage, sparking dialogue and challenging conventional thinking.
Rapman’s Fireside Chat and BHM Party
The day ended with an inspiring fireside chat featuring Rapman, creator of Supercell. Rapman shared his journey, offering insights into merging storytelling with technology. While he didn’t reveal any spoilers for Supercell season 2, he spoke passionately about his aim to raise awareness of Sickle Cell disease, a condition that disproportionately affects minorities, giving a voice to those often overlooked.
Beyond the panels and discussions, BTF 2024 also fostered strong networking opportunities through its numerous cultural events. The event blended its tech-centric focus with cultural experiences such as the "Suya Factory" and the "BHM Party," providing a chance for attendees to unwind, connect, and celebrate their shared passions. From DJ sets by Nairaa and Remi Burgz to interactive gaming sessions, BTF combined the best of tech, entertainment, and culture, offering a truly unique festival atmosphere.
Black Tech Fest 2024 was more than a tech conference—it was a movement. By celebrating the role of Black professionals in shaping the future of technology, BTF once again proved that diversity is not just desirable but essential for innovation. The festival’s blend of tech and culture demonstrated that the future of tech is brighter when it includes everyone.
