By Ricky Richardson, Contributing Writer
-
Courtney Olujobi and Aziza Shuler (Photo by Ricky Richardson) -
Carl Bogan (Photo by Ricky Richardson) -
The Disney Takeover and Tec Leimert Team members (Photo by Ricky Richardson)
(Los Angeles, Ca.)- The Universe and the Metaverse were in alignment over Leimert Park Village on Saturday, September 24, 2022. Several hundred people were in attendance for Tec Leimert Conference, from 10:00am-6:00pm.
“Black to the Future” was theme for this year’s conference. Tec Leimert welcomed a diverse crowd of entrepreneurs, innovators, tech enthusiasts, creatives and students to the annual conference to learn new pathways toward monetization in an environment of constant change brought on by technological innovation.
The conference had to pivot over to a different location along Leimert Boulevard, Leimert Plaza Park and Regency West. No problem, the team at Tec Leimert, a non-profit organization created a wonderful technology zone where thought leaders, influencers and industry experts were able to discuss the latest and newest innovations in entertainment, technology and digital economy.
Attendees to the conference began the day with a hearty breakfast at Los Angeles Urban League’s young professionals brunch presenting a relevant and timely panel “Cultural Currency: Building Black Wealth Through L.A.’s Creative Economy” inside Leimert Plaza Park.
Attendees walked a short distance to the South Stage to build on the conversion during the brunch. “Unlocking the Potential in Web 3.0” sponsored by BCG Digital Ventures. The panel was moderated by Ian Abbott of BCG Digital Ventures. The panelist consisted of Cheyon Satchell- Founder and CEO of BTS California, Metaverse/Web 3 Futurist, Courtney Olujobi- Blockchain Enthusiast/Entrepreneur and Shantel Anderson- ReelMood, Creative Technology, and Television/ Media Producer. The audience learned about cryptocurrencies, to NFT’s, smart contracts and blockchains. The panel provided an overview of these products and advised people to check with a professional financial advisor/planner.
On the North Stage, Carl Brogan, the creator and Executive Producer of Myster Giraffe gave a presentation. Myster Giraffe elevates storytelling by utilizing cutting edge technology to achieve the previously impossible to amplify marginalized voices and breathes new life into pop cultures from all aspects old and new.
Work Hard, Game Harder in partnership with Riot Games presented this panel moderated by Khleo Thomas. The panelists Alexandra Heard, Riot Games Recruiter, Lydia Elle, Microsoft, SR. Program Manager and Seth Smith, Riot Games, Senior Game Designer presented tips to landing a career in the thriving field on gaming.
All eyes were focused on the North Stage for the panel entitled “The Disney Takeover.” The panel shared their long-term strategy and exciting news of what’s next on the horizon in the areas of parks, media, and consumer products that will propel and continue to long legacy of Disney impact.
Tec Leimert conference attendees participated in L.A. Cultural Influencers powered by OPMG, Music Legends Fireside Chat with 1500 or Nothin. The conference also featured a reality arcade, and tournament, e-sports tournament, VIP Lounge and Black to the Future Photo booth.
