Presenters: Jamiel Owens, Family Relations Coordinator, The Center for Autism Research at CHOP; Co Presenter, Jamilah F. Bashir, The IEP Coach; Jamiel Owens, Family Relations Coordinator, CHOP Research Institute

In the evolving landscape of special education, the role of fathers—particularly men of color—has become increasingly critical in advocating for more inclusive educational environments for their autistic children. This session will explore the unique challenges and opportunities that fathers of color face in the educational system and how their active involvement can significantly impact the inclusivity and success of their children’s education. This presentation will equip fathers with the tools and knowledge needed to navigate the Individualized Education Plan (IEP) process, engage effectively with educators, and advocate for culturally competent and inclusive practices within schools. Attendees will gain insights into overcoming cultural barriers, the importance of representation in education, and the power of community engagement. This session brings together expertise in special education advocacy and lived experience from a father of an autistic child, offering a comprehensive and impactful perspective on this important topic.

Presenter: Al Zama-Chi, Youth Mentorship Coordinator, African Family Health Organization; Co-presenters: Emmanuel Oyelami, Sheku Kallon, Kenechukwui David Onyebolise, Mohamed Ezeldin Hassan Ibrahim

Gun violence has plagued our communities, disproportionately affecting young Black men. Yet, amidst this adversity, stories of resilience and triumph emerge. This session explores the experiences of Black immigrant boys and young men who have overcome traumatic backgrounds and pursued higher education. We will delve into the strategies that have enabled them to navigate challenges and achieve academic success. The Impact of Gun Violence Philadelphia has grappled with a devastating surge in gun violence, with young Black men bearing the brunt of the consequences. In 2021, homicide was the leading cause of death for Black men aged 15 to 43. The city recognized the urgent need for intervention and partnered with organizations like the African Family Health Organization (AFAHO) to address this crisis. AFAHO has provided essential support to at-risk youth. This session will highlight the experiences of three young men who have overcome adversity and achieved academic success. We will discuss the role of mentorship, safe havens, and trauma-informed practices in fostering resilience and promoting positive outcomes.

Presenter: Amir Fralin, Creator and Founder, PRES! Please LLC

This presentation will be geared around the transition for young men of color to a post-secondary space that looks different from the spaces that they have grown up around and become accustomed to. Whether that be college, trade school and/or career. We will speak about how to build confidence, leverage and be successful in those spaces. The goal is to have these young men leave the space knowing that, yes, it will be different, but look at that the word different as a positive, instead of a negative, taking their own personal situations, experiences, knowledge and understanding that it is not like anyone else's.

Presenter: Jenavia Weaver, Director, Student Engagement, Community College of Philadelphia

The Pew Research Center's most recent report indicates that "the Black population of the United States is growing." In 2021, there were an estimated 47.2 million people who self-identified as Black, representing 14.2% of the country's population. According to Feeding America, in 2020, 24% of Black individuals experienced food insecurity, which was more than three times the rate of white households. The Black community consistently faces high rates of hunger due to social, economic, and environmental challenges. To address the high rates of food insecurity amongst Black people, many people in the Black community are returning to their agricultural roots to ensure their neighbors have access to nutrient-rich foods. In 2017, the U.S. had 48,697 producers who identified as Black, accounting for 1.4 percent of the country's 3.4 million producers, and they lived and farmed primarily in southeastern and mid-Atlantic states. Their farms were smaller and the value of their agriculture sales was less than 1 percent of the U.S. total of $1.4 billion. Never be hungry again. Start where you are. Urban agriculture includes the cultivating, processing and distribution of agricultural products in urban and suburban areas through community gardens, rooftop farms, hydroponic, aeroponic, and aquaponic facilities, and vertical production. Plant a seed and put food on your table. Participants will learn how to build raised beds, plant and grow in any setting—apartments, homes, limited space, or any space. You, your family, your children and your community will never be hungry again!

Presenter: Walter Copeland, Professor, Community College of Philadelphia

In this presentation, I will address the deeply personal and critical issue of health disparities affecting men of color, an area that resonates with both my professional and lived experiences. As someone who has dedicated years to studying and addressing the inequities within our health care system, I have seen firsthand how men of color are disproportionately impacted by chronic diseases, mental health challenges, and a lack of access to quality health care. My journey in this field has been shaped by a commitment to understanding and dismantling the systemic barriers that have long marginalized these communities. Together, we will explore how socioeconomic factors, educational attainment, employment opportunities, and community support intersect to hinder or promote health equity. The heart of this presentation will focus on the social determinants of health that perpetuate these disparities. I'll discuss how economic instability, limited educational opportunities, and adverse environmental conditions create obstacles to achieving optimal health. But more importantly, I'll share stories and strategies that demonstrate how these barriers can be overcome through targeted, culturally sensitive interventions. I believe in the power of community and collaboration to drive change. As such, I will propose strategies that emphasize the importance of engaging with and empowering men of color to take control of their health outcomes. Together, we can work toward a future where every man of color has the opportunity to live a healthy, fulfilling life.

Presenter: Jack Drummond, Director of Restorative Practices, University of Pennsylvania; Co-presenter, Sarah Byker James, Assistant Professor of English, Community College of Philadelphia

Restorative practices provide a wonderful framework for addressing and reducing harm in our communities, schools, and workplaces, especially for men of color who often face systemic challenges and social injustices. In this session, we will introduce restorative practices as a tool for empowering men of color to actively engage in healing and uplifting their communities. By emphasizing dialogue, accountability, relationship-building, restorative practices create a powerful pathway to transform conflicts and lessen the impact of harm on both individuals and communities. The session will explore restorative circles, mediation and community conferencing, showcasing how these approaches can be used to tackle issues like gun violence, stigma, and disparities in educational and professional settings. Participants will discover how restorative practices can cultivate safe spaces for open conversations, encourage mutual understanding, and nurture a culture of respect and support among men of color. Attendees will walk away with practical strategies for implementing restorative practices, empowering them to become positive agents of change in their communities.

Presenter: Malika Rahman, Founder and President, Be A Great You, Inc.

In an era where genuine representation and self-assurance are paramount, "The Value of Using Your Voice" is a transformative session designed to empower Black men to operate with authenticity and authority. This session will address the challenges and opportunities of expressing oneself boldly in various personal and professional contexts. Participants will explore the significance of being true to oneself and how authenticity fuels confidence and personal growth; learn strategies to assert oneself effectively, communicate with impact, and leverage one's unique voice in leadership and advocacy roles; discuss common obstacles faced by Black men in expressing their true selves and practical ways to overcome these challenges; and engage in dialogue with peers to share experiences, gain insights, and build a supportive network focused on mutual empowerment and collective advancement. Ideal for Black men at various stages of their personal and professional journeys, including students, young professionals, and established leaders seeking to enhance their impact and authenticity, this session uses education as a tool to empower and uplift participants.

Facilitator: Tamir Harper, Director of Development & External Affairs, Philadelphia Academies Inc.; Co-presenter: F. Christopher Goins, President & CEO, Philadelphia Academies, Inc.

Founded in 1969 to address the dropout rate among Black males in Philadelphia, Philadelphia Academies, Inc. (PAI) has evolved into a leading organization that connects education and workforce development to create pathways for student success. This session will explore PAI’s innovative approach to supporting middle school and 9th grade students through its Success Networks and integrated workforce development initiatives. Participants will gain insight into PAI’s impact over the decades, with a focus on its strategies for engaging students at critical points in their education. We will highlight how PAI’s collaborative partnerships with local businesses and industries provide students with real-world experiences and career exploration opportunities directly within the school setting. Attendees will understand how PAI’s model improves student retention, increases graduation rates, and prepares students for future careers. Practical tips and strategies will be provided for replicating PAI’s success in other schools, emphasizing culturally responsive practices and equity in education.

Presenter: Dr. Donald Guy Generals, President, Community College of Philadelphia

The session will focus on the genius of Booker T. Washington and his contribution to American education. Living in the shadow of W.E.B. Dubois, Washington has been historically maligned and his reputation has been distorted. The presentation will set out to set the record straight.

Presenters: Aaron Helton-Holloman and Cameo Pritchett, Academic Advisors, Community College of Philadelphia

This workshop is designed to help students understand the basic foundations of finding their purpose in life. It encourages students to view themselves as a work in progress, and to use their life/college experience and self-reflection as tools for exploring their purpose. Through interactive discussions, self-assessment exercises, and guided activities, students will gain a clearer understanding of what purpose means and how it plays a crucial role in personal and professional fulfillment. The workshop will introduce the Ikigai model, a Japanese concept that combines passion, mission, vocation and profession to help students further discover their own unique purpose.

Presenter: Reginald Howard, Reginald A. Howard & Associates

The presentation will highlight the importance of creating formal and informal support structures, such as mentoring programs, peer support groups, and culturally relevant counseling services, that are tailored to the unique needs of men of color. The session will emphasize the role of community organizations in creating a sense of belonging and providing resources that help students cope with stress, overcome obstacles, and build resilience. Participants will be encouraged to consider the broader definition of “community,” which includes not only family and friends, but also faculty, staff, and local organizations that contribute to a supportive and empowering environment. The session will also address the importance of community advocacy in promoting policies and practices that enhance access to mental health services, academic support, and career readiness programs for men of color. Through case studies and examples of successful community-based initiatives, the presentation will demonstrate how these networks of support can significantly enhance the college experience for men of color, leading to improved retention rates, academic achievement, and personal growth. Attendees will leave with a deeper understanding of how to engage and mobilize communities to support the success of men of color in college, as well as practical strategies for implementing these ideas.

Presenter: F. Christopher Goins, President & CEO, Philadelphia Academies, Inc.; Co-presenter, Tamir D. Harper, Director of Development & External Affairs, Philadelphia Academies Inc.

This presentation will be geared around the transition for young men of color to a post-secondary space that looks different from the spaces that they have grown up around and become accustomed to. Whether that be college, trade school and/or career. We will speak about how to build confidence, leverage and be successful in those spaces. The goal is to have these young men leave the space knowing that, yes, it will be different, but look at that the word different as a positive, instead of a negative, taking their own personal situations, experiences, knowledge and understanding that it is not like anyone else's.

Presenters: Carl Jones and Tyrell Bradshaw, Center for Male Engagement (CME), Community College of Philadelphia

This presentation will not only exemplify why black men deserve joy, but we will be highlighting the many ways in which black men have gone about spreading joy throughout our community at large. From highlighting the achievements of former CME members to breaking down statistical data and best practices, we will showcase the progression of black men in our community while seeking ways to enhance their feelings of belonging within modern society. How to go about breaking generational curses, celebrating vulnerability, and investing in our youth are only a few topics that we will be addressing in our presentation.

Presenter: Amir Fralin, Creator and Founder, PRES! Please LLC

This presentation will be geared around the transition for young men of color to a post-secondary space that looks different from the spaces that they have grown up around and become accustomed to. Whether that be college, trade school and/or career. We will speak about how to build confidence, leverage and be successful in those spaces. The goal is to have these young men leave the space knowing that, yes, it will be different, but look at that the word different as a positive, instead of a negative, taking their own personal situations, experiences, knowledge and understanding that it is not like anyone else's.

Presenter: Jenavia Weaver, Director, Student Engagement, Community College of Philadelphia

The Pew Research Center's most recent report indicates that "the Black population of the United States is growing." In 2021, there were an estimated 47.2 million people who self-identified as Black, representing 14.2% of the country's population. According to Feeding America, in 2020, 24% of Black individuals experienced food insecurity, which was more than three times the rate of white households. The Black community consistently faces high rates of hunger due to social, economic, and environmental challenges. To address the high rates of food insecurity amongst Black people, many people in the Black community are returning to their agricultural roots to ensure their neighbors have access to nutrient-rich foods. In 2017, the U.S. had 48,697 producers who identified as Black, accounting for 1.4 percent of the country's 3.4 million producers, and they lived and farmed primarily in southeastern and mid-Atlantic states. Their farms were smaller and the value of their agriculture sales was less than 1 percent of the U.S. total of $1.4 billion. Never be hungry again. Start where you are. Urban agriculture includes the cultivating, processing and distribution of agricultural products in urban and suburban areas through community gardens, rooftop farms, hydroponic, aeroponic, and aquaponic facilities, and vertical production. Plant a seed and put food on your table. Participants will learn how to build raised beds, plant and grow in any setting—apartments, homes, limited space, or any space. You, your family, your children and your community will never be hungry again!

Presenters: Jamiel Owens, Family Relations Coordinator, The Center for Autism Research at CHOP; Co Presenter, Jamilah F. Bashir, The IEP Coach; Jamiel Owens, Family Relations Coordinator, CHOP Research Institute

In the evolving landscape of special education, the role of fathers—particularly men of color—has become increasingly critical in advocating for more inclusive educational environments for their autistic children. This session will explore the unique challenges and opportunities that fathers of color face in the educational system and how their active involvement can significantly impact the inclusivity and success of their children’s education. This presentation will equip fathers with the tools and knowledge needed to navigate the Individualized Education Plan (IEP) process, engage effectively with educators, and advocate for culturally competent and inclusive practices within schools. Attendees will gain insights into overcoming cultural barriers, the importance of representation in education, and the power of community engagement. This session brings together expertise in special education advocacy and lived experience from a father of an autistic child, offering a comprehensive and impactful perspective on this important topic.

Presenter: Emmanuel Harris

This session will highlight the crucial role of strong parenting in the lives of young men of color, providing participants with valuable insights into the impact of positive parental relationships, having a strong and positive figure in their lives that may not be a parent, effective communication strategies, and the importance of setting high expectations. By focusing on the importance of strong parenting, this session aims to empower young men of color to build positive relationships with their parents, understanding that even if there isn’t a parent that is involved, they can seek an adult that they look up to that is a positive influence in their lives, develop essential life skills, and achieve their full potential.

Presenter: Dr. Wayne W. Williams, NABA Faculty Advisor, Fox School of Business at Temple University

Underrepresentation in financial fields may contribute to less awareness of the financial profession as a viable career pathway for marginalized groups, especially men of color. During this panel discussion, attendees will hear from Temple NABA (National Association of Black Accountants) members who are currently pursuing undergraduate business degrees that prepare them for lucrative careers in financial services. Panelists will share stories of their individual pathways to becoming accounting, financial planning, and investment management professionals. The students will address their attitudes towards their studies, gaining confidence in the interviewing process that led to lucrative internships and how they have aligned their career aspirations with giving back to the community. Attendees will learn how NABA is building a financial services pipeline of success.