Imani Ellis, founder and CEO of The Creative Collective NYC and CultureCon, took center stage at the 2024 AfroTech Conference to drum home the extraordinary impact of Black creators in the digital and business landscape.
With compelling data to back her claims, Ellis called for a reassessment of how brands engage with Black influencers, presenting their work not only as culturally transformative but also as a lucrative business decision.
A Data-Driven Case for Black Influencers
Ellis shared eye-opening statistics during her talk:
- Black creators generate 10.5 times more media value than non-Black creators.
- 71% of consumers are more likely to purchase a product recommended by a Black influencer.
“This isn’t just about doing the right thing. It’s smart business,” Ellis told the audience. “You can take this data to brands and say, ‘This is what the numbers show. Now pay me.’”
Imani Ellis is herself a trailblazer in the creative industry.
Starting as a one-woman operation, she built The Creative Collective NYC into a powerhouse that connects diverse creators with opportunities for growth and collaboration. Her brainchild, CultureCon, has become a premier destination for creatives, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders, hosting iconic speakers such as Issa Rae, Tracee Ellis Ross, and Spike Lee.
Ellis’ influence extends beyond her events. Her advocacy for equitable opportunities for underrepresented voices in media and business has cemented her as a prominent leader driving meaningful change. At AfroTech, she brought this mission to life by shedding light on the overlooked yet undeniable power of Black creators.
The AfroTech Conference: A Hub for Innovation
AfroTech, a multi-day conference celebrating Black innovation in tech, business, and culture, serves as a vital platform for connecting visionaries.
Featuring keynote speakers, panel discussions, and networking opportunities, AfroTech highlights Black professionals’ contributions to the tech world.
This year’s conference was no different, with Ellis’ session becoming a highlight for attendees. It started on Wednesday, Nov. 13 and will run through Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston, Texas.
A Call to Action
Ellis’ insights at AfroTech challenged brands and partners to recognize the immense value Black creators bring to the table.
By leveraging hard data, she is advocating for greater equity and empowering creators to demand their worth in negotiations.
As AfroTech continues to champion Black excellence, voices like Imani Ellis’ are instrumental in reshaping the narrative. Through her work and advocacy, Ellis is creating a world where creativity, culture, and commerce intersect to benefit all.
