Students of Color Policy Collaborative: Black in Tech
As public servants, we are often charged with implementing a strategic policy that will strengthen our industries and grow our economies. As of late, the tech industry has been at the forefront of the conversation. Tech firms are dominating the growth conversation. However, Black people make up a tiny fraction of the overwhelmingly White and Asian male workforces of major technology companies as well as the ranks of aspiring entrepreneurs and venture capitalists who control the spigot of money and access.
Our cities are now realizing how important it is to cultivate a diverse workforce, and are investing in ways to address disparities in STEM industry representation. Our policy collaborative will facilitate discussion on how policy can aid in the diversification of our industries, hear from experts in STEM about their experience, and showcase Black tech talent who are utilizing tech for advocacy.
Refreshments will be served!
Activism & Art installations by:
Terrick Gutierrez, Art Activist & Tisch Grad Student
Glenn Cantave, Founder of Movers & Shakers NYC
Moderator: Ari Melenciano, Creative Technologist and founder of Afrotectopia
Panelists:
Eden Zeilo, Director of Operators for Sundial Brands, and Head of Operations at Black Tech Women
Mark Thomas, Senior Vice President, Partnerships at New York City Economic Development Corporation
John Lynn, Co- Founder of Studio Project
Suliaman (Su) Sanni, Founder of Dollaride, and Incubator participant at NYU Urban Future Labs
Carly Ann Fergus, Director of XRC Labs
Afiya Bediako, Fellow at Harlem Capital, and NYU Stern Graduate
