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Proof that networking doesn’t have to feel like homework
This past week was a whirlwind of networking in the best way possible!
I attended AfroTech for the first time, which also happened to be the 10-year anniversary of the conference.
For those unfamiliar, AfroTech is an annual gathering at the intersection of technology, culture, and innovation. While it's deeply rooted in uplifting Black professionals, it’s a space where people of all backgrounds come together to celebrate Black excellence, share knowledge, spark innovation, and build meaningful connections.
I had the opportunity to connect and reconnect with so many incredible people, and honestly, I’m still running on a high from Houston!
As a Black engineer, there is a specific rush that comes with standing in a room full of people who look like me, especially with so many passionate students in the mix.
I’ve heard about AfroTech from friends for years, so finally being there and fully immersing myself in the broader tech ecosystem felt special, particularly coming from the more traditional engineering world I live in day-to-day.
A few major highlights:
The Founder & Creator Meetups: I had conversations that genuinely expanded my perspective, and lined up some incredible minds who will be joining the podcast soon. Stay tuned for those episodes in the new year!
The After-Hours Culture: Beyond the professional networking, the afterparties were packed with line dancing, great food, drinks, nonstop laughter, and so much fun!
The Giant Slide: I completely let my hair down (figuratively of course) and went down a giant slide with a group of new friends. It might honestly take the crown for my favorite moment of the week. (Yes, I recorded it, you can [check out the chaos on my TikTok here]!)
Beyond the parties and the TikTok moments, though, walking away from AfroTech reminded me of something crucial: innovation doesn't happen in isolation!
As an engineer, it’s easy to stay heads-down in your technical lane and focus entirely on the execution in front of you.
But stepping into a room vibrating with Black founders, creators, and students proved how much power exists when we bridge our distinct worlds.
My biggest takeaway?
Don't wait for permission to step outside your bubble, and don't hesitate to bridge the gap between where your industry is and where the culture is moving.
Until next time!
NEW EPISODE OF BE INCREDIBLE PODCAST!
In this episode, host IncrediPaul sits down with author, keynote speaker, and founder Adam S. Peters to discuss how shifting your focus from "the world" to "your world" can radically transform your mental health, career, and community. Adam shares how navigating personal tragedy led him to create the Community Happiness Project and author The Blueprint to Happy.
They unpack the science of neuroplasticity, the importance of applied learning over passive knowledge, how to identify and break out of the four fear responses (fight, flight, freeze, fawn), and why setting and enforcing firm workplace boundaries is essential for Gen Z professionals.
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