Jade C. Williams, a product leader and founder of the upcoming digital platform That AI Girl, exemplifies the transformative power of networking and community at the AFROTECH Conference.
With her recent participation as an AFROTECH Insider, Williams has demonstrated how the conference fosters professional growth and strengthens the bond among Black tech innovators.
A Homecoming for Black Tech Professionals
The AFROTECH Conference has become a “Black tech Mecca,” drawing industry leaders such as Robert F. Smith, will.i.am, and Beatrice Dixon to share insights and inspire attendees.
This year’s event, hosted in Houston, TX, offered participants opportunities to connect with over 200 tech and enterprise companies, explore cutting-edge product demonstrations, and engage in dynamic programming.
Williams, who has attended AFROTECH since her first conference in San Francisco in 2018, took on a new role in 2024 as an AFROTECH Insider.
This exclusive membership program enhances the conference experience by providing behind-the-scenes access, exclusive events, and a close-knit community of tech innovators.
The Insider Advantage
Reflecting on her Insider experience, Williams emphasized the value of connection.
“The Insider community feels like a tighter-knit group of tech innovators in addition to the big homecoming that the conference offers,” she shared during an interview with AFROTECH.
As an Insider, Williams prioritized AI-driven panels and the recruitment expo floor. Her strategic approach paid off: she gained a new client, secured podcast opportunities, and lined up multiple interviews that position her for a strong start in 2024.
Leveraging the Conference for Career Growth
Williams highlighted the unique timing of the AFROTECH Conference, which occurs in Q4, as a critical advantage for building connections ahead of Q1 hiring cycles.
“It’s an opportune time to get ahead of the Q1 recruiting wave and build those connections early,” she noted, adding that the relationships forged at the event have already yielded rounds of interviews for potential opportunities in the new year.
A Vision for the Future
With her platform That AI Girl set to launch soon, Williams is poised to make an impact in the tech industry, not only through her work but also by inspiring others to embrace innovation and diversity.
Her journey demonstrates the power of community, persistence, and the unparalleled opportunities offered by events like AFROTECH.
