By Megan Sayles
AFRO Business Writer
msayles@afro.com
The AFRO’s fourth annual Black Business Matters Expo is quickly approaching. Once again, Career Communications Group (CCG) CEO Tyrone Taborn is stepping in to host the virtual event on his metaverse platform, STEM City USA.
The platform is a community of digital twins, or virtual replicas of the physical world. Its aim is to make science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education globally accessible and to advance diversity and inclusion.
Credit: Courtesy photo
“The metaverse is nothing more than a platform. It’s what you put on the platform that makes it the metaverse,” Taborn told the AFRO in a previous interview about the platform. “We have virtual reality, 3D and artificial intelligence. The majority of the world will embrace the metaverse through web-based platforms, which is exactly what we’re doing now.”
When expo attendees click on a session to attend, they will be transported to one of STEM City USA’s classrooms. There, they will be able to see and hear speakers in real-time. Business leaders will offer insights and strategies for growing and scaling enterprises.
This year’s theme for the expo is celebrating small business— a pursuit that is fundamental to the work of STEM City USA.
“It’s very important because Black-owned small businesses often face unique challenges, including access to capital and resources. Supporting these businesses really helps create economic opportunities, reduces the wealth gap and fosters financial independence within Black communities,” said Alana Winns editor-in-chief and chief content officer for CCG. “STEM City is a trusted community where people have access to these resources to become everything that they are and beyond.”
Credit: Courtesy photo
STEM City USA is continuing to expand its digital world and enhance its technological capabilities. The platform already houses health and wellness centers, a historically, Black college and university (HBCU) village and education centers.
It’s also developing an AI-powered 3D digital library called Collin AI. The model applies to STEM and academia topics through the lens of people of color.
“It’s really important for us to create these systems where we can uplift Black entrepreneurs,” said Winns. “We want to create platforms for them to continue being role models who inspire the next generation of business leaders within the Black community.”
The AFRO’s Black Business Matters Expo will take place on May 30 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. To register and receive your free ticket, please visit Afrotix.live.
Megan Sayles is a Report for America corps member.
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