The energy and excitement are palpable as the Black Tech Saturdays Clean Energy Takeover gears up to take place on July 13, 2024, at NewLab in Detroit, Michigan. This dynamic event serves as a prelude to the much-anticipated RECESS24 Black and Brown Clean Energy Conference, set to advance equity in the clean energy sector for Black and Brown communities.
The Clean Energy Takeover event will be initiated by Johnnie and Alexa Turnage, the visionary founders of Black Tech Saturdays. Their mission to empower Black tech communities nationwide through tech-focused initiatives has grown exponentially. What started as a modest gathering has evolved into an influential movement, boasting nearly 500 attendees on Saturdays and approximately 3,500 unique participants overall. The impact is unmistakable, with the organization facilitating significant deals for founders, providing access to capital and networks, and delivering essential soft skills training.
The lineup of speakers for this event is nothing short of remarkable. Attendees will have the opportunity to gain insights from leading entrepreneurs in the clean energy space. Carla Walker-Miller, founder and CEO of Walker-Miller Energy Services, will share her journey of building one of the nation’s leading woman-owned, African-American-owned energy efficiency companies. Walker-Miller’s work not only revolutionizes energy services but also champions diversity and inclusion in the industry.
Joining her is Natalie King, the innovative founder and CEO of Dunamis Charge. Her company manufactures EV Charging Stations, contributing to the vital infrastructure needed for the transition to electric vehicles. King’s vision and leadership in clean energy technology are paving the way for a more sustainable future.
Darren Riley, co-founder and CEO of Justair, will also take the stage. Justair’s platform provides crucial health and environmental insights through hyper-local community air quality monitoring networks. Riley’s work highlights the intersection of technology and environmental justice, emphasizing the importance of clean air for all communities.
Nana Arkorful, founder and CEO of Arke, will present his groundbreaking all-in-one retrofit eBike kit. This innovative product transforms traditional bikes into electric bikes with a power unit, lightweight motor, throttle, and display, promoting sustainable transportation solutions. Arkorful’s work is a testament to the ingenuity and potential within the Black tech community.
The Black Tech Saturdays Clean Energy Takeover aims not only to highlight these extraordinary entrepreneurs but also to heighten awareness about RECESS24. This upcoming conference is dedicated to advancing equity for Black and Brown people by creating opportunities in the rapidly transitioning clean energy economy. RECESS24 will showcase experts, ideas, technologies, and connections designed to drive the benefits of clean energy participation to historically excluded communities.
Black Tech Saturdays and RECESS24 share a common vision: to close the racial wealth gap through strategic economic growth and fostering diversity within the tech and clean energy industries. By spotlighting successful entrepreneurs and their contributions, these events aim to inspire and empower the next generation of Black and Brown innovators.
As the clean energy sector continues to evolve, the importance of inclusive growth cannot be overstated. Events like the Black Tech Saturdays Clean Energy Takeover and RECESS24 play a crucial role in ensuring that the benefits of this transition are equitably distributed. By creating platforms for underrepresented communities to engage with new technologies and opportunities, these initiatives are driving a more inclusive and sustainable future for all.
Mark your calendars for July 13, 2024, and join us at NewLab in Detroit to be part of this transformative journey. The Clean Energy Takeover promises to be an event filled with inspiration, innovation, and impactful connections, setting the stage for a more equitable clean energy future.