Workforce Development by Black LGBTQ+ People, for Black LGBTQ+ People: Lighthouse Foundation’s Second Annual Workforce Development Conference
On Saturday, March 30, 2024, Lighthouse Foundation hosted our highly anticipated second annual Workforce Development Conference. This year's conference saw a remarkable surge in attendance, with numbers soaring by over 151% compared to 2023, reflecting the growing importance of tailored professional development opportunities for Black LGBTQ+ individuals.
The conference was a testament to our belief in the power of professional development by and for Black LGBTQ+ people. Attendees experienced an array of meticulously crafted free sessions to address the unique challenges and opportunities faced by Black LGBTQ+ workers.
Sessions ranged from practical workshops like "Leading With Intention" by Joli Robinson and "Resume Writing Laboratory" with Rodney Matthews, to insightful discussions on entrepreneurship with panels such as "Sisters Doin' It for Themselves: Black Queer Women Entrepreneurship" featuring Angela Barnes. Joshua Taylor led engaging sessions on LinkedIn strategies and interviewing tactics, while Darrius Coffey offered invaluable insights on building sustainable businesses for creative entrepreneurs.
One attendee shared their experience, stating, "I love being in spaces like this. I feel so much more connected to the community and comfortable. It feels so nice to be in a space surrounded by Black LGBTQ+ [people]. I feel empowered and understood."
The conference also prioritized holistic wellness with sessions like "Health and Wellness in the Workplace" led by Leslie Ivy and Chantel Daniels and "Productive Aging in the Workplace for LGBTQ+ Workers" with Michael Stone. Moreover, the inclusion of a session titled "Everything I Needed to Know About Business, I Learned From Drag" by Kenya Sanchez showcased the diverse and enriching perspectives present at the event.
The conference concluded with the unveiling of Lighthouse Foundation's inaugural Black Queer Equity Index (BQEI) Grades during a free happy hour event. This initiative underscores the organization's steadfast commitment to fostering equity and inclusivity for Black LGBTQ+ employees and board members within various professional spheres.
“One of the reasons that the BQEI is so novel is that it not only identifies challenges and problems, it also convenes Black LGBTQ+ people and other stakeholders to co-create solutions,” says Lighthouse Foundation’s Executive Director, Jamie Frazier, “The Workforce Development Conference is such a solution. Lighthouse Foundation organizes the Workforce Development Conference every year because Black LGBTQ+ BQEI respondents shared the desire and need for professional development that is for Black LGBTQ+ people and by Black LGBTQ+ people.”
The success of the second annual Workforce Development Conference serves as a beacon of hope and progress, signaling a bright future ahead for Black LGBTQ+ professionals. Stay tuned for updates on next year's conference as we continue championing equitable opportunities and empowering Black LGBTQ+ individuals in the workplace and beyond.
