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 NINE | 2024

Theme

Good Company

Highlights

Held in Portsmouth for the first time
Masterclass with Dr. Boyce Watkins
Featured Celebrity speakers Jennifer Lewis
Featuring Better by Tuesday, Jay Staton, DJ Izzy

Keynote Speaker

John Hope Bryant

Year EIGHT | 2023

Theme

Black Audacity

Highlights

Returned to Virginia Beach
Content Creators, Anonymous Tent, Healthcare & Wellness focus, and Pitch Contest
Featured Celebrity speakers King Ashley Ann and Wall Street Trapper
Featuring The Fuzz Band and The Backyard Band

Keynote Speaker

Ron Busby, King Ashley Ann and Cedric Green for a moderated discussion

Year SEVEN | 2022

Theme

Diamond University: (MBA) Make Business Amazing!

Highlights

Over 50 Classes with 5 different tracks in addition to a Pitch Competition
Over 400 attendees attended BDW
Featured Celebrity speakers Kim Coles and Palmer Williams Jr.
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

Over 30 Classes with 3 different tracks in addition to a bonus Tech Track
Over 400 attendees attended BDW as a hybrid event for the first time
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

26 Classes with 3 different tracks
Over 400 attendees attended virtually for the first time
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

The Unveiling of our Legacy Council and 150-year plan
Over 300 attendees and 55 vendors
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

Conversion of Black Diamond Affair to Black Diamond Weekend
Over 300 attendees and vendors
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.