Empowering youth with strong leadership skills is paramount to cultivating a generation of leaders who are capable of driving change and fostering inclusivity. In the midst of a rapidly shifting global economy – characterized by evolving consumer preferences and an embrace of digital innovations – there is a need to prioritize access to education, skill development and competency building in a way that accounts for a dynamic future.

The upcoming Global Black Impact Summit (GBIS) – taking place on Tuesday, February 27 in Dubai – will host a dedicated panel discussion on the role of youth in shaping global dynamics and building a more resilient future. The panel – Nurturing Future Leaders: Empowering Black Youth for Excellence –  features high-level speakers from across education and business sectors, who will share insights into the pivotal role of modern education in economic advancement and wealth creation for the next generation.

GBIS – hosted by the Black Impact Foundation and organized by Energy Capital and Power – is an annual event that celebrates the achievements of the Black community, promotes excellence, and explores untapped potential across various fields. This year’s summit – taking place on February 27, 2024, in Dubai – is set to be a transformative experience, featuring influential speakers, engaging panel discussions and networking opportunities. To sponsor or participate as a delegate, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com

Icons such as Nelson Mandela and Malcolm X have long-served as advocates for policies championing inclusivity, diversity and social equity, particularly among underserved populations. While their legacies continue to inspire resilience and empowerment within the global community, the imperative now lies in equipping today’s youth with the social education and mindset to effect transformative change. The GBIS panel will explore strategies and initiatives aimed at building confidence, resilience and leadership skills in young individuals.

On the entrepreneurial front, business leaders including Pravini Baboeram, Co-Founder of 7th Gen Creatives, Lashai Ben Salmi, Co-Founder of Hallyu Con, and Tray Sean Ben Salmi, Founder of Influencer Publishing & Financial Education for Teens, will serve as speakers on the panel, instilling ambition among aspiring entrepreneurs and business owners. In this regard, GBIS 2024 will shed light on the role of mentorship and positive role models in unlocking the full potential of the next generation.

Taking place under the theme, Black Excellence: Unleashing the Unexplored Potential for Global Unity, GBIS 2024 aims to foster connections among individuals and business leaders not only within the Black community, but worldwide. The summit serves as a unique, multisectoral platform that seeks to establish best practices for driving the next generation forward, while celebrating diversity, excellence and innovation in the process.  

As global economies increasingly prioritize sustainable development, community engagement and volunteerism have emerged as powerful tools to shape and build more equal and inclusive societies. According to the United Nations (UN), more than one billion people volunteer globally to ensure food security, support health and education initiatives, and drive inclusivity, equality and economic growth.

The upcoming Global Black Impact Summit (GBIS) – taking place on February 27 in Dubai – will spotlight community engagement and volunteerism as catalysts for positive social change. Under the theme, Black Excellence: Unleashing the Unexplored Potential for Global Unity, GBIS 2024 inspires individuals and organizations to become agents of positive change in their communities by volunteering and participating in community programs.

GBIS – hosted by the Black Impact Foundation and organized by Energy Capital and Power – is an annual event that seeks to celebrate the achievements of the Black community, promote excellence, and explore untapped potential across various fields. This year’s summit is set to be a transformative experience, featuring influential speakers, engaging panel discussions, and networking opportunities that empower attendees to reach new heights. To sponsor or participate as a delegate, please contact [email protected].

Empowering Local Voices for Policy Change

Volunteerism, according to the Ayobami Bolorunde Foundation, is instrumental in empowering local communities to advocate for policy change at the national level. The process ensures that the needs, concerns and dynamics of local communities are addressed comprehensively through policy reforms. In the U.S., organizations like the Promise Neighborhoods of the Lehigh Valley facilitate community engagement, thereby ensuring policymakers are not only informed about community perspectives, but also held accountable for addressing them through effective policy adjustments.

Harnessing Local Knowledge for Energy Sustainability

Community engagement is at the forefront of sustainable development. The U.N. emphasizes that it is also crucial for bolstering the implementation of climate action initiatives and ensuring a just energy transition. Communities possess knowledge on environmental challenges faced within their neighborhoods and regions. In this regard, community engagement and volunteer work can play pivotal roles in harnessing this expertise, while developing and adopting appropriate strategies for environmental sustainability and inclusive development.

Empowering the Local Workforce

Community engagement and volunteerism offer further benefits such as skill development, community cultivation and experiential learning, equipping individuals from across various communities with the necessary skills to prepare for and access the global job market. The significance of community engagement and volunteerism transcends mere participation – it serves as a conduit for empowerment, solidarity and resilience. Through acts of service and collaboration, individuals can effect tangible change, forge enduring connections and foster stronger, more vibrant communities. At GBIS 2024, delegates will have the opportunity to engage in discussions and connect with speakers, activists and community leaders to explore avenues for making a difference in their communities through volunteerism.

As the countdown to the Global Black Impact Summit (GBIS) continues – taking place on February 27 in Dubai – anticipation is mounting across the globe. Hosted by the Black Impact Foundation (BIF) and organized by Energy Capital & Power, the summit presents a unique opportunity to access impactful sessions, hear from engaging speakers and capitalize on one-on-one networking opportunities. With an overarching goal of uniting the global community to foster diversity and inclusion across sectors, GBIS 2024 is set to be a transformative experience for all in attendance.

GBIS – hosted by the Black Impact Foundation and organized by Energy Capital and Power – is an annual event that celebrates the achievements of the Black community, promotes excellence, and explores untapped potential across various fields. This year’s summit – taking place on February 27, 2024, in Dubai – is set to be a transformative experience, featuring influential speakers, engaging panel discussions and networking opportunities. To sponsor or participate as a delegate, please contact [email protected]

Exclusive Gala Dinner

One of the key highlights of GBIS 2024 is its esteemed Gala Dinner, set to take place at the prestigious Address Sky View in Dubai. This exclusive event promises an evening filled with celebration and inspiration, as guests convene to celebrate the achievements of individuals hailing from diverse backgrounds. Esteemed footballer, philanthropist and BIF Chairman Clarence Seedorf will deliver the opening remarks, setting the tone for an unforgettable evening. Don’t miss the opportunity to be a part of the transformative movement that is GBIS 2024. Join the summit to celebrate diversity, inspire change and make a positive impact on a global scale.

Engaging Sessions and Speakers

GBIS 2024 boasts an impressive lineup of influential speakers and thought-provoking sessions, covering a wide range of topics relevant not only to the Black community, but to leaders and changemakers from all walks of life. From discussions on entrepreneurship and innovation to panels addressing diversity and inclusion, delegates can expect to gain high-level insights into driving transformative change within their respective fields.

Participating in the summit’s agenda are prominent entrepreneurs like Jefferson Osei, CEO of fashion brand Daily Paper, Nigerian businessman Tunde Folawiyo, and Olakunle Williams, CEO of energy firm Tetracore Energy, among many others. These esteemed speakers bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the table, offering attendees valuable perspectives on building successful businesses and driving economic upliftment within the Black community and beyond.

Unparalleled Networking Opportunities

One of the most valuable aspects of GBIS 2024 is the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals from diverse backgrounds and industries. The summit provides a unique platform for networking and collaborating, allowing delegates to forge meaningful relationships, exchange ideas and explore potential partnerships in an intimate setting. GBIS also places a distinct focus on professional growth and mentorship opportunities, as it aims to level up the next generation of young professionals. With access to industry leaders and experts such as Co-Founder of AwareNow Media Allie Merrick McGuire, fashion stylist KJ Moody, diversity educator Jane Elliot and more, attendees have the chance to gain advice and guidance that can propel their careers and ventures to new heights.

​​Energy Capital & Power (ECP) is the African continent’s leading investment platform for the energy sector. Join us at our world-class investment-focused events in Africa and worldwide. ECP’s events, reports, content and other services are built to serve the African energy community.

Jason Hayward, Minister of Economy and Labor for Bermuda, will share his expertise and insights at the upcoming Global Black Impact Summit (GBIS) in Dubai on February 27. During the summit, Minister Hayward will engage with future leaders, drawing insight to the role diversity and inclusion play in creating a more equitable and fair society.  

With a diverse portfolio of expertise spanning immigration, labor relations, international business, and economic development, Minister Hayward plays a key role in shaping Bermuda’s economic future. Having served as a Member of Parliament since 2019 and later assuming the role of Minister of Labor in 2020, Minister Hayward has a wealth of experience and leadership, both of which will not only inspire but serve as informative for the GBIS audience.

GBIS – hosted by the Black Impact Foundation and organized by Energy Capital and Power – is an annual event that seeks to celebrate the achievements of the Black community, promote excellence, and explore untapped potential across various fields. This year’s summit – taking place on February 27, 2024 in Dubai – is set to be a transformative experience, featuring influential speakers, engaging panel discussions, and networking opportunities that empower attendees to reach new heights. To sponsor or participate as a delegate, please contact [email protected].

Drawing from his experience, Minister Hayward brings a unique perspective to GBIS 2024. His background in the Economic and National Accounts Division of the Department of Statistics, coupled with his leadership roles in prominent unions, equips him with insights into labor relations, economic development, and community advocacy.

Attendees can expect Minister Hayward to offer practical strategies and firsthand knowledge on navigating challenges and driving positive change in both public and private sectors. Moreover, his discussion points at GBIS 2024 will provide insights and strategies for driving economic upliftment and promoting diversity and inclusion in leadership roles.

Energy Capital & Power (ECP) is the African continent’s leading investment platform for the energy sector. Join us at our world-class investment-focused events in Africa and worldwide. ECP’s events, reports, content and other services are built to serve the African energy community.

As the energy sector undergoes a transition towards sustainable solutions, the Global Black Impact Summit (GBIS) 2024 – taking place February 27 in Dubai – will delve into diversity’s role in shaping the sector’s future.

With a panel discussion titled, Energy Transition: Highlighting the Importance of Diversity in Shaping the Future of the Energy Sector, the summit will explore how, through inclusivity, the global energy sector can unlock innovative approaches to increasing energy security while fast-tracking a transition to a cleaner energy future.

GBIS – hosted by the Black Impact Foundation and organized by Energy Capital and Power – is an annual event that celebrates the achievements of the Black community, promotes excellence, and explores untapped potential across various fields. This year’s summit – taking place on February 27, 2024, in Dubai – is set to be a transformative experience, featuring influential speakers, engaging panel discussions and networking opportunities. To sponsor or participate as a delegate, please contact _[email protected]

Amidst the global shift towards cleaner and more sustainable energy sources, the necessity for diversity and inclusion within the industry has become increasingly evident. Despite progress, there still lies disparity in the industry, with the 2023 Energy and Employment Report by the U.S. Department of Energy showing that Black workers comprise only 9% of the clean energy workforce, compared to 13% of the national workforce. Similarly, women represent less than 30% of all workers in the sector, despite constituting nearly half of the overall U.S. labor force.

GBIS 2024 aims to shed light on these disparities and explore strategies to promote diversity and inclusion within the energy sector. The event recognizes the importance of leveraging diverse perspectives for sustainable innovation and growth, and as such, the discussions at GBIS will explore the contributions of underrepresented professionals and leaders in driving the transition towards renewable energy and clean technology. From pioneering research to innovative policy initiatives, these individuals play a key role in advancing sustainable energy solutions and driving positive change on a global scale.

With a focus on Black entrepreneurs spearheading innovative clean technology solutions, the conversation will highlight the impact of diverse perspectives in the development and implementation of sustainable energy practices. Notable speakers for this panel include Atong Amos, Founder and CEO of Triple A Services & Petroleum, and Olakunle Williams, CEO of Tetracore Energy Group – both esteemed leaders renowned for their contributions to the energy sector.

Through prioritizing inclusion and diversity, GBIS acknowledges the energy sector’s role in driving economic growth, enhancing the well-being of communities worldwide while unlocking job opportunities for all.

Join GBIS 2024 and be part of the conversation around sustainable energy. Passes are still available for the conference as well as the GBIS Gala Dinner. Contact [email protected] for more information.

Energy Capital & Power (ECP) is the African continent’s leading investment platform for the energy sector. Join us at our world-class investment-focused events in Africa and worldwide. ECP’s events, reports, content and other services are built to serve the African energy community.

Following a day filled with insights, the Global Black Impact Summit (GBIS) will conclude its proceedings with its anticipated GBIS Gala Dinner. Set to take place at the prestigious Address Sky View in Dubai, the Gala Dinner promises an evening of elegance, celebration, and inspiration, highlighting the remarkable talents and achievements of individuals from diverse backgrounds across the globe.

As the Chairman of the Black Impact Foundation – the host of GBIS -, Clarence Seedorf will deliver opening remarks, setting the tone for an inspiring evening ahead. Seedorf, one of the world’s most successful sportsmen, will share insights from his illustrious career and offer words of encouragement to motivate attendees to pursue their passions and strive for excellence in their endeavors.

GBIS – hosted by the Black Impact Foundation and organized by Energy Capital and Power – is an annual event that celebrates the achievements of the Black community, promotes excellence, and explores untapped potential across various fields. This year’s summit – taking place on February 27, 2024, in Dubai – is set to be a transformative experience, featuring influential speakers, engaging panel discussions and networking opportunities. Make a donation to attend the Gala Dinner here or contact [email protected]

What sets GBIS apart is its commitment to celebrating diversity and cultivating inclusivity in all its forms. Subsequently, the Gala Dinner also functions as a platform to showcase the achievements of individuals from diverse backgrounds worldwide, inspiring attendees to embrace their differences and make a positive impact in their respective fields.

The Gala Dinner will provide a networking environment, bringing together a diverse range of participants from various industries and regions to build meaningful connections and collaborations. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with influential figures, thought leaders, and innovators from around the world, fostering valuable relationships that can lead to future opportunities and collaborations.

Whether seeking potential business partnerships, mentorship opportunities, or simply looking to expand one’s professional network, the Gala Dinner offers a conducive setting for building meaningful connections that can propel attendees towards their goals and aspirations.

The Gala Dinner will provide attendees with the perfect opportunity to network and connect with like-minded individuals. By joining this event, individuals and organizations can align themselves with a global cause and contribute to the advancement of diversity and inclusion. It is not just an opportunity to be present; it is a chance to actively make a difference and support meaningful initiatives.

Passes for the Gala Dinner are now available here, offering an exclusive opportunity to be a part of this historic event. Make a donation to secure your place.

For more information about GBIS and its mission, click here.

With one week to go, the Global Black Impact Summit (GBIS) 2024 is gearing up for its highly anticipated third edition. Hosted by the Black Impact Foundation and powered by Energy Capital & Power, the summit will gather influential leaders, role models, and impactful individuals from around the world for a day of dialogue, networking, and engagement.

The summit will serve as a global center for unity, under the theme, Black Excellence: Unleashing the Unexplored Potential for Global Unity. Featuring an array of thought-provoking panel discussions and insightful sessions, the summit will provide a platform for participants to explore various facets of Black excellence and discuss strategies for driving positive change within the global community. The GBIS Gala Dinner offers unparalleled opportunities for networking and engagement, providing delegates with the chance to connect with thought leaders while fostering meaningful relations.

GBIS – hosted by the Black Impact Foundation and organized by Energy Capital and Power – is an annual event that celebrates the achievements of the Black community, promotes excellence, and explores untapped potential across various fields. This year’s summit – taking place on February 27, 2024, in Dubai – is set to be a transformative experience, featuring influential speakers, engaging panel discussions and networking opportunities. To sponsor or participate as a delegate, please contact [email protected]

At its core, GBIS is committed to strengthening inclusivity and advancing entrepreneurship within underrepresented communities. The agenda includes panels such as Breaking Barriers: Paving the Way for Black Excellence Across Boundaries and Building Black Wealth: Exploring the Power and Potential of Black Entrepreneurship. As such, the summit aims to address challenges faced by Black entrepreneurs and highlight emerging opportunities in various industries.

Furthermore, the summit will spotlight the Energy Transition and the Importance of Diversity in Shaping the Future of the Energy Sector, showcasing the contributions of Black professionals and entrepreneurs in driving sustainable energy solutions and innovations. Additionally, discussions on Media Representation, Marketing, and Storytelling will explore strategies to promote positive narratives. The summit will also host a Fishbowl Conversation on Nurturing Future Leaders, a panel discussion on Cracking the Code of Success: Black Innovators Advancing the Future of STEM and Healthcare.

The cross-interview segment, Winning Streaks: Strategies for Athletic Success, will spotlight the achievements of Black athletes, highlighting their impact on breaking racial barriers and reshaping the sporting landscape. It will also emphasize the benefits of sports in the Black community, including educational and financial opportunities.

Join GBIS 2024 today and be part of a movement that celebrates and unites the global black community. There is still time to secure your participation – contact [email protected] for more information!

About Energy Capital and Power

Energy Capital & Power (ECP) is the African continent’s leading investment platform for the energy sector. Join us at our world-class investment-focused events in Africa and worldwide. ECP’s events, reports, content and other services are built to serve the African energy community.

Producer, director and actor Novi Brown will speak at the Global Black Impact Summit (GBIS) – taking place February 27 in Dubai. Brown currently stars as Sabrina Hollins in the hit-BET comedy-drama series, Sistas and is a strong advocate for enhancing inclusivity in the film and beauty industries.

Throughout her extensive career in film and television, Brown has promoted the role diversity plays in broadening storytelling. Her commitment to art and television is driven by a goal to change the narrative around people of color while offering communities greater representation.

GBIS – hosted by the Black Impact Foundation and organized by Energy Capital and Power – is an annual event that celebrates the achievements of the Black community, promotes excellence, and explores untapped potential across various fields. This year’s summit – taking place on February 27, 2024, in Dubai – is set to be a transformative experience, featuring influential speakers, engaging panel discussions and networking opportunities. To sponsor or participate as a delegate, please contact [email protected].

With acting credits in film and television, Brown began her career appearing in theater productions such as Dutchman and Boston Marriage before making her screen debut in the 2014 sports comedy film My Dad’s a Soccer Mom.

The German-born actress landed a leading role in Tyler Perry’s Sistas in 2019, starring alongside KJ Smith and Ebony Obsidian. Brown has also played leading roles in the horror-thriller film Alone in the Dark; the romantic comedy The First Noelle; and the comedy film Holiday Hideaway, all of which released in 2022.

Brown’s passion for creativity and self-expression has led her to become an advocate for women to find their voice in the creative arts and is lauded for her unmitigated dedication to community development. As such, attendees at GBIS can expect astute insights into the challenges and intricacies of navigating the entertainment industry from Brown as she shares her experience as an actor, producer and director.

The media and entertainment sectors are undergoing a transformative shift in their approach to representation. While there has been notable progress in showcasing diversity – with policies implemented at both company and national level to ensure different groups are granted the same opportunity in the industry – society is now calling for a shift towards genuine inclusion. By going beyond mere representation to ensure the integration of voices, media companies stand to expand the mainstream narrative; drive business growth and profitability through shared perspectives; while contributing towards a more inclusive society.  

Against this backdrop, the Global Black Impact Summit (GBIS) – held in Dubai on February 27 – will unite diverse groups of people globally to discuss the role of representation and inclusion in the media and entertainment industries and celebrate the achievements made when inclusive practices are followed.

GBIS – hosted by the Black Impact Foundation and organized by Energy Capital and Power – is an annual event that celebrates the achievements of the Black community, promotes excellence, and explores untapped potential across various fields. This year’s summit – taking place on February 27, 2024, in Dubai – is set to be a transformative experience, featuring influential speakers, engaging panel discussions and networking opportunities.

Research suggests that integrating diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) principles into the media and entertainment industry yields greater profitability. Amazon’s 2023 Higher Impact Report reveals that 79% of consumers exhibit a preference for brands whose values resonate with their own, with DEI increasingly prominent among these values. Additionally, nearly half (45%) of consumers are willing to pay a premium for products that embrace and advocate for DEI, while 46% actively seek out brands that demonstrate corporate commitments to DEI.

In addition to its profitability, diversity and inclusion are essential for shaping perceptions and attitudes. Providing diverse voices with a platform to share their narratives not only promotes unity but also dismantles barriers and nurtures understanding. Representation serves as a catalyst for empathy and connection, bridging cultural divides and fostering a sense of inclusivity that resonates with audiences. Central to this narrative shift is the recognition that inclusion surpasses mere adherence to regulations; it necessitates a continual dedication to amplifying diverse viewpoints. It’s crucial, therefore, not only to integrate previously excluded individuals but also to spearhead discussions and shape narratives proactively.

Among those leading this discussion are Arno Peperkoorn, Co-Founder of Include Now, a foundation advocating for diversity and inclusivity. In his role as Chief Talent Officer at Omnicom in the Netherlands, he recognizes individual’s strengths and bridges barriers to include more diverse perspectives. Similarly, OCTET Productions’ Chief Creative Officer Bree West and CEO Chuck West prioritize diversity and inclusion in their company’s endeavors, encouraging an environment where diverse perspectives are valued and integrated into their creative projects. Peperkoorn and both Bree and Chuck West are speaking at GBIS this February.

Another notable advocate for diversity in media and entertainment is Mindy Kaling. As an actress, writer, producer, and director, Kaling has been vocal about the importance of representation both on and off-screen. Through her work on projects including ‘The Office,’ ‘The Mindy Project,’ and ‘Never Have I Ever,’ Kaling has consistently pushed for more diverse storytelling that reflects the complexities of modern society. She has also used her platform to advocate for greater opportunities for women, people of color, and other underrepresented groups in the industry.

Similarly, Trevor Noah, South African comedian and host of ‘The Daily Show,’ has garnered acclaim for his insightful commentary on global politics and social matters. Noah’s upbringing as a biracial individual in apartheid-era South Africa lends a unique perspective to his commentary, offering audiences a distinct lens through which to engage with contemporary events.

At the upcoming GBIS 2024 event, these themes will take the stage, spotlighting the crucial role of authentic representation and inclusivity in media. Going beyond superficial visibility, the focus will be on amplifying diverse voices and narratives. By prioritizing inclusion and diversity, GBIS acknowledges the media’s integral role in driving societal change toward a more inclusive future for all stakeholders.

Energy Capital & Power (ECP) is the African continent’s leading investment platform for the energy sector. Join us at our world-class investment-focused events in Africa and worldwide. ECP’s events, reports, content and other services are built to serve the African energy community.

KJ Moody, a renowned fashion stylist, will speak at the upcoming Global Black Impact (GBIS) summit in Dubai on February 27. As a force in creative fashion, KJ Moody’s participation adds a unique and vibrant dimension to the summit.

His exceptional journey and transformative impact in the world of fashion align seamlessly with GBIS’s commitment to showcasing the multifaceted excellence within the Black community.

The Global Black Impact Summit, hosted by Black Impact Foundation and organized by Energy Capital and Power, is an annual event that seeks to celebrate the achievements of the Black community, promote excellence, and explore untapped potential across various fields. This year’s summit – taking place on February 27, 2024, in Dubai – is set to be a transformative experience, featuring influential speakers, engaging panel discussions, and networking opportunities that empower attendees to reach new heights.

Moody’s journey in the world of fashion began in his formative years, where he discovered his passion for the industry. His ascent started with apprenticeships under various celebrity stylists, laying the foundation for a remarkable solo career. Moody’s approach to fashion is deeply rooted in his commitment to forging personal connections with his clients.

By fostering an environment where individual expression is celebrated, he encouraged his clients to embrace their unique styles comfortably. His impactful work has graced the pages of renowned publications such as Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, Elle, Vanity Fair and more.

Today, Moody stands as the creative force behind the styles of esteemed celebrities, including Beyoncé, Kelly Rowland and Normani. Noteworthy among his recent accomplishments is co-styling Beyonce’s Renaissance Tour and assuming the lead as the stylist for the SS23 Dolce and Gabbana show.

At GBIS 2024, Moody is set to share his insights into the dynamic world of fashion, offering a glimpse into his journey, creative process and the power of personal style. Participants can anticipate an engaging session that not only explores the intricacies of the fashion industry but also delves into the impact of personal expression and individuality through style. Moody’s unique blend of experience and passion is poised to contribute meaningfully to the event, inspiring attendees to embrace their authentic selves through the transformative power of fashion.