Prior to last week, if you’d asked me about Afrotech, I would have enthusiastically described it as the largest Black tech conference in the world—a space where industry leaders, executives, and luminaries converge. I would have told you how vital it is, especially in an era where some claim “DEI is dead,” to create spaces like this that center Black innovation and excellence.
But what I experienced at Afrotech this year was more than just a professional conference. It was a space of community, empowerment, and enlightenment. From sessions on using AI for personal and professional development to discussions on industry trends designed to close knowledge gaps and level the playing field, Afrotech offered unparalleled opportunities for growth and insight. In the expo hall, representatives from major companies were not just scouting talent but actively building pipelines, with many attendees—some hired at previous Afrotech events—leading the way. Recruiters committed to prioritizing resumes from this year’s attendees for upcoming roles, showcasing a glimpse into the future of equitable recruitment and retention—a future we must all strive to shape.
As a DEIB strategist, I’ve spent years helping organizations implement strategies for inclusive growth, but Afrotech reignited my passion for preparing businesses to receive, nurture, and retain diverse talent.
Representation and Retention aren’t just goals —they’re a Business Necessity.
The conference reminded me why I love helping organizations #scalesuccessfully. The talent I saw at Afrotech—over 5,000 individuals with skills ranging from #AI and #NLP to #DataProcessing—represents the workforce of the future. If your company wants to succeed, this is the kind of talent you need to attract and retain.
But here’s the truth: you have to be ready to receive it. That means more than just hiring for diversity—it means creating equitable systems that support long-term success.
One way to start? Sponsor your employees to attend transformative experiences like Afrotech. I met so many attendees who had to personally fund their trip because they knew the opportunity was priceless. Imagine the impact if employers had stepped in to support them:
- Employee morale and loyalty would increase.
- Productivity and innovation would thrive.
- Cost-saving solutions could emerge.
Companies that prioritize equity will lead the way in creating sustainable products, accessible services, and empowered teams.
“Equality is not the equal allocation of resources; it’s equal opportunity to gain value, regardless.” – Imani Dunbar, Head of Equity at LinkedIn
To ensure retention, focus on a culture of equality through these key actions:
- Clarify your company’s direction with measurable goals that resonate across teams.
- Equip your team for success by ensuring every employee has an equal opportunity to gain value and grow within the organization.
- Continuously evaluate your strategy to stay aligned with both your mission and evolving market demands.
Organizations ready to embrace this continuous process will not only retain their top talent but also thrive in an increasingly competitive landscape.
Afrotech 2024 Insights For Those Finding Their Path
For those navigating their journey in tech or other fields, here are some takeaways from Afrotech:
- Advocate for Yourself
If there’s a conference, workshop, or certification you want to attend, write a proposal for your employer or share your #theask with your network. Highlight what you’ll gain and how it benefits your company. Take the shot! - Say Yes
Embrace opportunities and experiences that align with your skills and passions. Growth comes from stepping out of your comfort zone and saying “yes” to what excites or challenges you. - Don’t Be Passionate and Broke
Build a career path that aligns with your natural gifts and provides financial sustainability. Passion fuels purpose, but stability ensures longevity. - Upskill, Always!
In an industry constantly evolving, continuous learning is key—not just for personal growth but for driving innovation that empowers underrepresented communities to thrive in tech.
This commitment to learning and empowerment was exemplified in a session I had the privilege of attending led by Angelica Ross—Human Rights Activist, star of Pose and American Horror Story, and founder of TransTech Social, a program that empowers underrepresented communities in tech, particularly transgender individuals and people of color. Programs like these are game-changers for creating a gender-expansive, affirming, and sustainable tech industry.
Beyond Diversity recognizes #TransAwarenessWeek and as we are are approaching Trans Day of Remembrance on November 20th—we honor transgender lives lost to violence and commit to actions that support equity, belonging, and justice for all.
We are the future and it’s time to take action
Close your eyes and imagine Afrotech with me. A sea of people, united in purpose and possibility. An overwhelming flow of information, turned into actionable insights. A rapidly changing tech landscape, infused with clarity and innovation. Afrotech wasn’t just a conference—it was a revolution in how we think about community, education, and representation.
Representation matters—not just because it’s the “right thing to do” but because it fuels innovation, enhances workplace culture, and drives measurable business success. The diverse talent and skills your company needs are already out there, waiting for opportunities. I invite businesses to move beyond surface-level diversity efforts and build intentional, strategic pathways for inclusion. To create industries that truly reflect the world around us, the work must begin now. As an experienced DEIB consultant and scaling solutions partner, I help organizations transform their visions into reality with actionable, equity-driven strategies that foster growth, retention, and long-term impact.
Connect with me and let’s explore how we can collaborate to strategically set you and your team up to scale successfully!
Diana Vasquez is the Founder and CEO of Beyond Diversity Consulting LLC, a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Consulting company that equips leaders with the tools to transform their organizational culture to one where people who show up want to keep showing up.
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