The fourth annual national Black Footwear Forum (BFF) is set to take place from September 21-24 at Detroit’s HBCU Pensole Lewis College of Business & Design (PLC) in collaboration with the Footwear Distributors and Retailers of America (FDRA). This year’s theme, “Culture is Currency: Know Your Worth,” promises to be a pivotal event in celebrating Black creative talent and addressing diversity and inclusion challenges in the design industry.
Dr. D’Wayne Edwards, President of Pensole Lewis College, expressed his enthusiasm for the event, citing the industry’s top brands’ support and the valuable knowledge sharing that takes place. Over 30 major industry brands, including Nike, Microsoft, Adidas, and more, have generously contributed to make this event possible, solidifying BFF’s reputation as “The Industry’s Homecoming.”
Matt Priest, President and CEO of the FDRA, emphasized the BFF’s role in recognizing and celebrating the invaluable contributions of Black creatives in the American footwear industry. The event is an essential platform for industry professionals to connect, learn, and celebrate together.
Event Highlights:
- Thursday, 9/21: Ribbon cutting ceremony for the Pepsi Student Lounge, BFF opening mixer with DJ Clark Kent, art competition, and VIP dinner sponsored by Bacardi.
- Friday, 9/22: Keynote speech by hip-hop legend Grandmaster Caz, panel discussions on diversity in design, and Black Genius talks.
- Saturday, 9/23: Panel discussions on Black creativity and a networking mixer with Grammy Award-winning DJ Jazzy Jeff.
- Sunday, 9/24: Adidas-sponsored events for women and a Men’s Leadership & Wellness Workshop.
BFF 2023 is generously sponsored by Adidas, Amazon Music, Bacardi, Nike, Puma, and other industry leaders, making it free to attend. To register for the event and stay updated on coverage, visit www.blackfootwearforum.com or follow @pensolelewis on Instagram.
