CultureCon 2024 was the ultimate hub for creatives, dreamers, and doers, serving up an experience packed with innovation, connection and pure joy. This year, the festival took things to new heights with exclusive events like Amazon Prime Video’s screening and after-party, a special Netflix screening featuring Michelle Obama and Remy Ma, and a private creator event at Brooklyn’s trendy The Monkey King. But beyond the panels and activations, the vibe and the community spirit that made CultureCon a must-attend.
From the moment the doors opened, the energy was electric. The two-day event featured fashion powerhouses like June Ambrose and Law Roach, and stars like Yara Shahidi, Tyler James Williams, and Morris Chestnut, who graced the CultureCon stage to share their wisdom with the next wave of creative entrepreneurs. The jam-packed programming, breathtaking outfits, and unforgettable moments had jaws dropping, especially when rising star Tems delivered a surprise performance that lit up the crowd.
Adventure Alley was the heart of excitement this year, as sponsors offered free meals and a custom clothing activation that attendees couldn’t get enough of. The area also featured activations from Prime, Coca-Cola, MAX, Chase Ink, Kickstarter, and more, creating an immersive and engaging experience for everyone.
Day 1 Highlights
- Esteemed host Karamo Brown joined Emmy-winning anchor Jasmine Monroe, recipe creator Toni Chapman, and ‘Tiny Desk’ host Bobby Carter to discuss the art of the pivot. Brown shared, “I know I need to make a pivot when I feel myself not being challenged or I feel that people around me are not treating me the way I want to be treated.”
- Morris Chestnut sat down with Reasonable Doubt cast members Emayatzy Corinealdi and McKinley Freeman to celebrate the vibrant diversity on set. “I haven’t been on set with so much color… ever—in my whole career, it was great to have that,” he noted.
- The fashion visionary Law Roach captivated audiences, sharing stories about his journey, his upcoming book, and mentoring the young Kensington Grey Creators backstage in an inspiring conversation with fashion journalist Recho Omondi.
- Style icon June Ambrose stunned in a chic tailored gray suit with shorts and an eye-catching burgundy spiral hat as she took the stage to speak with the inaugural class of Gucci Changemaker Creative Fellows.
- Imani Ellis, CultureCon’s visionary founder, moderated multiple panels and also took a special moment on stage for a heartfelt fireside chat with her parents. It was a touching highlight, showcasing her journey and the support system that has fueled CultureCon’s growth.
Day 2 Highlights
- Anika Noni Rose teamed up with host Bevy Smith to discuss her book Tiana’s Perfect Plan and how it promotes grace for the next generation. “So many kids are dealing with anxiety and depression—stuff their little bodies—they’re not even big enough to hold,” she explained.
- Wicked star Cynthia Erivo inspired the crowd alongside TV host Scott Evans, sharing how embracing her differences has been her greatest power: “Being an outcast… something about that difference is what is powerful—it is the thing that makes you really powerful and special.”
- Tyler James Williams shared his insights on patience in the creative process with Imani Ellis. “The fastest route to where you are trying to go is slow. No matter how much you want it or how badly you want to get there, you need the time to build,” he advised.
- Yara Shahidi closed out the festival with award-winning host Tracy G, discussing the courage it takes to be a beginner. “Not being afraid of being a beginner. I have to remind myself frequently that almost everyone I look up to had to do what they did for the first time at some point,” she shared.
Tracy G., Yara Shahidi. Image: Courtesy of CultureCon.
CultureCon 2024 was more than just a festival; it was a movement celebrating the essence of Black creativity and culture, leaving attendees eagerly anticipating what’s to come next year.
