With less than 30 days to go, AFROTECH™ Conference 2024 is fast approaching, and attendees need to prepare now to make the most of this transformative experience. Scheduled for Nov. 13-16 in Houston, TX, this year’s event promises a powerful lineup of speakers, sessions, and networking opportunities designed to help professionals thrive in tech and business.
2024’s conference is next level, featuring industry heavyweights like Google’s Matthew Robinson, who’s bringing the heat with his session, “Creative Summit: Diverse Design: User-Centric Innovation,” and Charlotte Burrows, Chair of the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, dropping knowledge in “AI: The New Civil Rights Frontier.”
View this post on Instagram
But that’s just the beginning. You don’t want to miss game-changing sessions like “The Future of FinTech: Revolutionizing Financial Inclusion,” “The Power of Data: How Analytics Is Transforming Business,” and “Scaling Startups: Key Strategies for Growth.” Plus, check out the epic “Black Founders Fund Pitch Competition,” where the next wave of innovators will go head-to-head, and you get to witness it all.
And it’s not just about the sessions — the week is also about connection. Join meetups like the AFROTECH™ U College Reception or link up at the Black Women in Tech: Power Networking event to vibe with fellow changemakers and industry leaders. Whether you’re building your career or taking your business to the next level, this year’s conference is where it’s all going down!
For those attending for the first time as well as AFROTECH™ veterans, here are essential tips and best practices to ensure you get the most out of your conference experience.
Register Before It’s Too Late
With just days remaining before the conference kicks off, securing your spot is crucial if you haven’t already. AFROTECH™ offers a variety of ticket tiers, including student, general, corporate, executive, and all-access. Student tickets are a great way to access key sessions at a reduced rate, while executive and all-access passes offer exclusive networking opportunities and VIP experiences. No matter the ticket tier, attending AFROTECH™ is a game-changer, so head over to the website to lock in your registration today.
View this post on Instagram
Make Travel Arrangements Now
Houston’s two main airports, George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and William P. Hobby Airport (HOU), offer a variety of flight options, but with the conference so close, flights are booking up fast. If you haven’t already, explore frequent flyer miles and flight deals, and make sure your travel aligns with the conference schedule. AFROTECH™ Conference officially begins at 4 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 13, with the opening ceremony, but registration, Culture Park, and Food Truck Alley will open earlier in the day.
Once you’ve secured your flight, book accommodations near the George R. Brown Convention Center, where AFROTECH™ will take place. Several Houston hotels offer discounted rates for attendees through AFROTECH™’s official housing vendor, Resiada. This service provides perks like no booking fees, flexible payment options, and dedicated support.
Create Your AFROTECH™ Strategy
The AFROTECH™ Conference is packed with sessions, meetups, panels, and networking events. To avoid feeling overwhelmed, it’s essential to create a personalized schedule. With the conference offering everything from the Cybersecurity Stage, which will feature discussions on tech safety and cyberattacks, to the AI Stage, which will explore quantum AI and automation, there is something for everyone. Additionally, don’t miss curated conversations with industry leaders like Rashad Robinson, president of Color of Change, and Beatrice Dixon, CEO of The Honey Pot.
New summits, such as the Founder’s Summit and the Health & Environmental Equity Summit, are also worth adding to your itinerary. Be sure to prioritize the sessions most relevant to your career or business goals and explore the opportunity to network with key industry leaders.
Leverage Talent Infusion For Job Opportunities
If you’re looking to advance your career, AFROTECH™ is an ideal place to do so. Tap in with Talent Infusion, a platform that allows you to submit your resume, build a talent profile, and connect with decision-makers from top tech companies. Many of the companies that will be present at the exhibit hall are actively seeking to recruit top talent, so ensure your resume, LinkedIn profile, and portfolio are up-to-date.
View this post on Instagram
Get Ready To Expand Your Network
AFROTECH™ Conference isn’t just about professional development — it’s also a time to connect, celebrate, and have fun. Throughout the conference, attendees will have the opportunity to enjoy music, food, and a variety of social gatherings. The event culminates with the Blavity House Party Block Party presented by Lexus on Saturday, Nov. 16, featuring live performances from Bun B, Jagged Edge, Slim Thug, and Mike Jones. This must-attend event promises to be the perfect cap to an exciting week.
The City Is A Vibe
While you’re in Houston, take time to explore the city. Known for its vibrant arts scene, great food, and cultural diversity, Houston has plenty to offer. If you have downtime between sessions, consider visiting the Museum District, where you’ll find the Museum of Fine Arts and the Houston Museum of Natural Science. Or, grab a bite in the bustling Midtown area, known for its excellent dining options.
Houston’s Buffalo Bayou Park is a great spot for those who enjoy outdoor activities. You can walk, run, or rent a kayak there. And don’t forget to check out some of the city’s famous barbecue and Tex-Mex restaurants while you’re there!
Prepare Your Professional and Personal Life
Before you head to AFROTECH™, ensure everything is in place at home. If you’re a parent, coordinate with your family, friends, or a sitter to manage your children’s schedules while you’re away. If you have pets, make sure they’re cared for as well. Knowing that things are handled at home will help you focus on the conference experience.
Pack Strategically
AFROTECH™ attendees are known for bringing their fashion A-game. Whether you’re opting for business casual or bold statement pieces, try to plan your wardrobe ahead of time. Houston can be warm in November, but the convention center will likely be cooler, so pack layers. Additionally, comfortable shoes are a must for navigating the event spaces.
AFROTECH™ 2024 is shaping up to be an unforgettable event. Whether you’re looking to advance your career, network with top professionals, or enjoy the energy of Black excellence in tech, this conference has something for everyone. By following these tips and preparing in advance, you’ll be ready to make the most of your AFROTECH™ experience. Don’t miss out — register now, plan your schedule, and get ready for an incredible week in Houston!
