A deep dive into how Black innovators shape global fashion, beauty, entertainment and digital culture — and the identity, discipline and ownership it takes to influence with intention, not accident.

Panelists

Stephanie L. Sutton — TV Host, Producer and Media Correspondent
Stephanie is a nationally recognized host and moderator known for leading culture-centered conversations across fashion, entertainment and lifestyle. She currently serves as Director of Engagement & Communications for YELLOW, the nonprofit founded by Pharrell Williams, where she builds partnerships and produces community-driven experiences.

Dr. Wes Bellamy — Educator, Author and Former Vice Mayor of Charlottesville, Virginia
Dr. Bellamy is a civic leader, author and educator whose work centers leadership, youth advocacy and community impact. He is the CEO of BCI Championship, commissioner of The Tonsler League, political science chair at Virginia State University, and a board member of 100 Black Men. Through education, athletics and community leadership, his work focuses on creating access, opportunity and long-term pathways for the next generation.

Brittney Jackson — Director of Integrated Marketing, Urban One
With more than 15 years of experience across media, advertising and marketing, Brittney helps brands create meaningful connections with Black audiences through Urban One, the largest Black-owned and targeted multimedia company in the country.

Rob Hill, Sr. — Author, Speaker and Publisher
Known as the “Heart Healer,” Rob is a Navy veteran and purpose-driven voice whose books and speaking platform focus on relationships, personal growth and community healing.

An unfiltered look at how styles, language and aesthetics born in Black communities are shamed when we create them yet praised and monetized when others adopt them. This conversation unpacks the economics, psychology and emotional impact of a culture the world copies but rarely credits.

Panelists

Essense Martin — Owner and Grill Artist, Essential Grillz
A certified dental assistant turned entrepreneur, Essense is the first female grill artist in the 757 and founder of Essential Grillz, a trusted teeth jewelry brand established in 2019.

Jordan Davis — National Sports Director, DTLR | Entrepreneur and Brand Builder
Jordan leads national sports partnerships at DTLR while also building culture-driven brands and advocating for mental health and community-centered leadership.

Quinelle “Coach Q” Holder — Music Executive, Publicist and Co-Founder, Medium Creative Agency
Coach Q works across artist development, media relations and label services. He also serves as a community curator for The Digilogue and collaborates with platforms including ONErpm and Alienz Alive.

This panel focuses on the gap between cultural creation and who actually gets paid. We’ll talk trends that start with us but profit others, the role of digital influence and what it takes to keep value, credit and opportunity closer to the source.

Panelists

Ron Stokes — Artist and Founder, The Art Seen
A self-taught street and abstract artist, Ron created The Art Seen, a platform producing inclusive exhibitions, pop-ups and creative experiences that amplify minority voices and connect artists to opportunity.

Keith Crump — Entrepreneur and Owner, WhatchaNeed and A Better Path Support Services
Based in Richmond, Keith is a community-focused business owner whose work is rooted in service, mentorship and building pathways that support long-term growth.

Chelsea Monroe — Global Brand Marketing Manager, Camille Rose
Chelsea specializes in connecting brands with audiences through culturally aware strategy across beauty, consumer and entertainment spaces.

Lachan Toran — Multi-Unit Restaurateur and Mental Health Leader Lachan’s work centers on building businesses that create both economic opportunity and lasting community impact. Known for establishments such as The Black Olive, Marylou’s and The Benedict, Lachan has established herself as a respected leader in Richmond’s hospitality industry. Her experience spans hospitality operations, executive leadership and wellness advocacy, blending business growth with intentional community investment.

An intimate conversation on building a signature voice, look or identity inside the culture. We’ll explore how Black creatives sharpen their aesthetic, stay rooted in community and protect their ideas while stepping into leadership and partnership.

Panelists

Rayvon — DJ, Entrepreneur and Event Curator
With more than 20 years in the entertainment industry, Rayvon creates culture-driven experiences that merge music, branding and community across Virginia and international markets.

Ayah Davis-Karim — Mixed Media Artist and Founder, Chromophore Artspace
Ayah is the owner of Chromophore Artspace, a Black woman-owned gallery in Richmond’s Jackson Ward that provides exhibition space, workshops and community-centered creative programming for artists of color.

Nado — Entrepreneur, Owner of VIP Lounge Barbershop and The Locker Room
A Marine veteran and community builder, Nado owns multiple clothing stores and barbershops across Virginia, investing directly into local neighborhoods through business, mentorship and outreach.