In a powerful gathering of over 1,500 registered women, the Black Magic Reimagined summit set the stage for transformative discussions on women’s health, self-care, entrepreneurship and the pivotal role of sisterhood in breaking barriers.
The summit, took place on September 30 and October 1 at AT&T Performing Arts Center at Strauss Square in Dallas, aiming to educate, empower and equip Black women with tools and resources paving the way for a more equitable and inclusive future.
The Black Magic Reimagined summit provided a platform for crucial conversations, inspiring stories and actionable insights. From prioritizing diversity and alignment in entrepreneurship to navigating challenges and fostering sisterhood, the summit exemplified a paradigm shift in empowering Black women entrepreneurs.
Marty McDonald and Lady Jade during the happy hour mixer of the Black Magic Reimagined Summit 2023
The summit geared up to amplify the voices of Black female leaders, ensuring that the momentum for change continues to build.
Attendees, including corporate professionals, entrepreneurs and student change-makers, had the opportunity to meet with speakers and influencers, fostering a day full of connections and conversations.
Key speakers for this year’s summit included Keke Palmer (multi-faceted performer and media mogul), Nicole Lynn (president of football of Klutch Sports), Kerone Vatel (head of community impact & investment at Capital One), Shena Ashley (president of Capital One insights center) and more. Sponsors for the Black Magic Reimagined summit include Capital One, Amazon’s Black Business Accelerator and Creme of Nature.
The focus on women’s health and self-care laid the foundation for a holistic approach to empowerment.
Words From The Founder
Boss Women Media and Elle Olivia founder, Marty McDonald
Boss Women Media and Elle Olivia, Founder Marty McDonald underscored the importance of diversity in her team, emphasizing the value of all-female and POC leadership.
McDonald, in her commentary, provided insights into the intentional structure of her team. She emphasized, “My team is filled with all women, number one. I’m really intentional about that. McDonald proudly stated, “And secondly, they’re all people of color,” showcasing her commitment to diversity and representation.
The entrepreneur conveyed her advocacy for shared responsibility and expertises further adding to the narrative of health and self-care. She mentioned, “I am an advocate for not putting everything on my own shoulders and spreading it out to people who are experts to execute.”
Emphasizing collaboration and excellence, McDonald reiterated the importance of assembling a production team comprising experts in their respective fields. This dedication to diversity not only demonstrated relatability but also introduced a range of expertise, essential in crafting an event that would connect with a multifaceted audience.
The summit delved into entrepreneurship, purpose and alignment. McDonald highlighted the significance of aligning with values and vision stating, “ The creation of the Black Magic Reimagined Summit was a testament to purpose-driven entrepreneurship.”
Breaking Barriers in Male-Dominated Spaces
Nicole Lynn speaking during the Black Girl Reimagined Summit 2023
The summit also featured Nicole Lynn, the first female agent to represent top NFL agency PlayersRep. Lynn emphasized excellence as the greatest currency in disrupting societal norms. She shared her key mantra: “If you want to be disruptive in your own space, you’ve got to be excellent at the job.”
Lynn introduced her new book, titled Agent You: Show Up, Do the Work and Succeed on Your Own Terms. The book is a guide on being your own agent in life, advocating for yourself, securing a seat at the table, making career leaps and finding purpose.
Delving into the significance of sisterhood, Lynn advocated for the need to make room for other Black women in sports. “There’s not many of us at that table,” she highlighting the importance of giving back and ensuring the success of fellow Black women whenever possible.
“Anytime I have the opportunity to give back to a Black woman or put them in a space to be successful, I’m doing that,” stated Lynn.
Lynn, a new mother of a four-month-old baby girl, expressed the significance of self-care. Lynn states, “I’m currently advocating for the ‘choose yourself’ mindset. As women, it’s crucial to prioritize self-care and ensure we get much-needed rest.”
The Importance of Partnerships
McDonald explained the pivotal role of sponsorship in the community of Black and brown women, citing Amazon and Capital One as exemplary companies invested in creating equitable societies.
“The vision for the future involves supporting Black women-owned businesses. These companies are aiming to help them expand and thrive through strategic partnerships and resources,” expressed McDonald
McDonald also pointed out the significant societal impact arising from partnerships with companies such as Capital One. She expressed, “They’re impacting the society that I live in, the small business that I am, Capital One and Boss Women Media have grown this together.”
The multipreneur explained the joint effort to uplift Black women-owned businesses, stating, “We aim to propel Black women-owned businesses beyond stagnation; our goal is to assist them in surpassing the threshold.
L to R: Kerone Vatel, Corein Carter, Maureen Jules-Perez, celebrating at the Black Girl Reimagined … [+]
Capital One’s Approach to Community Investment
Kerone Vatel, SVP, head of community impact & investment at Capital One shared insightful commentary sharing Capital One’s commitment to underserved communities, particularly focusing on supporting Black women to succeed.
“The vision extends beyond immediate investment, adopting an apprenticeship model that ensures we invest not just in today but in tomorrow’s entrepreneurs is key here,” suggested Vatel.
Vatel went on to share her belief in offering substantial strategies and real takeaways, not only for current entrepreneurs but also for the emerging generations to absorb and apply.
“Capital One is exploring the dedication to both investment and impact, as well as a commitment to elevating all communities and building wealth collectively,” added Vatel.
According to Vatel, one of Capital One’s main focus is how their skills can help the community, through events such as The Black Magic Reimagined pitch competition and providing practical insights.
L to R: Nicole Lynn, Lady Jade, and Kerone Vatel connect after a panel discussion on Day 2 of the … [+]
Additionally, Maureen Jules-Perez head of diversity, inclusion and belonging, managing vice-president of people technology and divisional CIO at Capital One further enriched the narrative, highlighting the creation of a publicly available resource list.
Perez stated, “We’re putting together a list of resources that will help assist entrepreneurs with tools they need to scale. Expressing inclusivity, saying, “We want to share the sauce to success with everybody.”
Perez provided more details about Capital One’s pro bono initiatives, explaining, “We have a pro bono program, categorized as growth consulting. You can schedule an hour to receive valuable advice.”
Emphasized authenticity and the importance of psychological safety in corporate America, Perez advocated for seeking support, expressing “If you can’t do it by yourself because you don’t feel safe or psychologically brave enough to be yourself, find a posse who can support you on your journey in business.”
Summit Highlights
Here are the standout moments from the Black Magic Reimagined Summit 2023:
Dallas, Texas: Meditation and Yoga instructor, Helsa Thompson leads attendees in a wellness session … [+]
The summit commenced with a sincere expression of gratitude, as yoga instructor Helsa Thompson set the tone for the day by guiding attendees through a rejuvenating yoga and wellness session.
Entrepreneurs Lady Jade, Ezinne Okoro, and Mz. Skittlez sharing wisdom on success and self-care … [+]
Day 1 featured a panel discussion on Reimagining Health & Wealth, highlighting the importance of self-investment and growth. Entrepreneurs Lady Jade, Ezinne Okoro, and Mz. Skittlez shared insights on achieving success and practicing self-care.
Lady Jade serving as the emcee during the joyful mixer at the Black Magic Reimagined Summit on Day 1
Lady Jade served as the emcee during the joyful mixer at the Black Magic Reimagined Summit
Summit Founder Marty McDonald engages in conversation with Restaurateur Pinky Cole at an exclusive … [+]
The summit featured a panel discussions along with a VIP breakfast with plant-based food expert Pinky Cole of Slutty Vegan.
CurlCap Founder, Britney Sade interacts with a customer at the Black Magic Marketplace during Day 2 … [+]
Black Magic Reimagined’s Black owned marketplace featured all women-owned business that included: haircare, clothing, books, accessories, and much more.
Capital One pitch competition winners Dayna Fleming, Mekina Raga, and Amber Williams awarded with a … [+]
Marty McDonald presented, Dayna Fleming, Mekina Raga, and Amber Williams awarding a total of 100k at the pitch competition. Felicia Jackson’s CPR Wraps takes the lead with 50k, followed by Ehime Eigbe-Akindele’s Sweet Kiwi with 30k, and Brittany Coleman’s ToughCutie with 20k.
Marty McDonald surprises new moms in the audience with thoughtful gifts from her Elle Olivia … [+]
Spreading joy at Black Magic Reimagined, founder Marty McDonald surprises new moms in the audience with thoughtful gifts from her Elle Olivia collection on the second day of the event.