A Look Back
Follow the evolution of Black Diamond Weekend and the incredible speakers,
experiences, connections, and impact we've fostered through the years.
Year SEVEN | 2022
Theme
Diamond University: (MBA) Make Business Amazing!
Highlights
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Over 50 Classes with 5 different tracks in addition to a Pitch Competition
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Over 400 attendees attended BDW
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Featured Celebrity speakers Kim Coles and Palmer Williams Jr.
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Featuring Nicky Saunders, Black Wealth Renaissance, The Fuzz Band, DJ Mad Skillz and Dj Scandalez.
Keynote Speaker
Kim Coles, Palmer Williams Jr, and Micah Bam Bamm White delivered an engaging fireside chat sharing an inside look at what it means to build and sustain profitable businesses.
Year SIX | 2021
Theme
Diamond University: It's A Different World Powered by Dominion Energy
Highlights
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Over 30 Classes with 3 different tracks in addition to a bonus Tech Track
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Over 400 attendees attended BDW as a hybrid event for the first time
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Featured Celebrity Guests Daryl Bell and Tempest Bledsoe
Keynote Speaker
Angel Rich delivered an inspired keynote complete with golden tips on building wealth with purpose and perseverance.
Year Five | 2020
Theme
Pressure Makes Diamonds: Sparkle. Fire. Brilliance powered by Cox Communications
Highlights
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26 Classes with 3 different tracks
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Over 400 attendees attended virtually for the first time
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Fashion Show at Norfolk City Zoo
Keynote Speaker
Les Brown delivered a riveting keynote on how to leverage the power of our stories.
Year Four | 2019
Theme
2020 Vision
Highlights
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The Unveiling of our Legacy Council and 150-year plan
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Over 300 attendees and 55 vendors
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The launch of Wealth Machine and awarding of $15K to our youth winners!
Keynote Speaker
Dr. George Fraser conducted a masterclass and rendered a game-changing keynote during the 4th Annual Black Diamond Affair!
Year Three | 2018
Theme
Connected AF (As Family)
Highlights
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Conversion of Black Diamond Affair to Black Diamond Weekend
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Over 300 attendees and vendors
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Mega shopping experience during expo event supporting black owned businesses
Keynote Speaker
NBA Referee and Men for Hope Founder Tony Brothers connected business to community to help the audience see that when everyone participates, everyone wins.