Through platforms such as Uber Rides and Uber Eats, Uber has become a platform that positively transforms the way transportation systems and food systems operate in society.

The purpose of this activation will be to examine the ways in which the built environment has

historically excluded Black people through the design of transportation systems and food

systems. It will also be a space for Black designers to reflect on what it looks like for us to design a society that recenters us.

Facilitator: Jacquelyn Iyamah

Description: The "Mixtape Manifesto" workshop mixes in the social determinants of design, while also mic checking how stereotypes and myths influence the essence of Blackness in the design world. While we may not unravel all the complexities in our time together, YOU WILL LEAVE WITH YOUR OWN PHYSICAL MIXTAPE — a guide as you continue to shape your personal state of Black Design in your communities. This manifesto is a call to action for Black designers, faculty, and staff to “Git Up, Git Out, and Git Something” (Goodie Mobb, 1994) in this one of a kind design sprint. Yes, “a time will be had” however, the “Mixtape Manifesto” is just beginning. The rhythm is yours to make and take for what lies ahead as you 'ease on down the road' (The Wiz) back to your communities to lead your future design endeavors.

Workshop Leader: Milan Drake, Stanford d.School

Description: Explore the artistry behind crafting visually striking letters and discover the fundamental principles that shape effective typographic compositions. From mastering various lettering styles to understanding the nuances of typeface selection, participants will embark on a creative journey to enhance their design skills and unlock new possibilities for expressive communication.

Workshop Leaders: Cymone Wilder, Amazon Web Service and David Jon Walker, Rhealistic Design

Description: this workshop, attendees will learn differences between User/Design Research methods and how to select the right method for a study. Attendees will then compete in a “Metagame” to put their knowledge to the test. This workshop is open to all disciplines and levels of UXR knowledge.

Workshop Leader: Hope Idaewor, Uber

Description: In this workshop, facilitated by fashion designer Andrea Pitter, attendees will explore their unique path to avoid the pitfalls of imitation, understand the motivations behind their ambitions, embrace the grind while acknowledging progress to recognize when you're living your dream and understand how fear is like a guide pushing you toward goals.

Workshop Leader: Andrea Pitter, Fashion Designer and founder of Pantora Bridal

Description: In her book Design for Identity: How to Design Authentically for a Diverse World, Jessica Bantom presents the six habits of culturally competent designers as behaviors designers can adopt to engage in a brave new dialogue where identity and culture are no longer taboo; they're actually embraced and celebrated in day-to-day interactions – with customers and clients, and among colleagues.

This workshop will feature a combination of knowledge sharing and group discussion.

Workshop Leader: Jessica Bantom

Description: This workshop is for rebellious thinkers and confident creators, welcome to our lively and enlightening Brand DNA Design Workshop! Dive into the vibrant world of branding, breaking the shackles of convention and embracing your authenticity.

Workshop Leader: Farrah Morgan

Description: Discover the intersection of artificial intelligence and inclusivity in our transformative workshop focused on the responsible use of AI in digital imagery to enhance minority representation.

Join a panel of AI Artists as they navigate the nuances of AI-induced bias and demonstrate cutting-edge imaging technologies that champion diversity.

Participants will engage in a hands-on prompt engineering session, designed to empower creators to generate AI prompts that celebrate the richness of black and minority cultures.

This interactive workshop also provides critical skills in bias detection and correction, offering practical strategies to ensure AI-generated content promotes equity and representation.

Workshop Leaders:

Dr. Robbie Melton, Interim Provost and VP of Technology Innovations for (AI) at TSU

Dr. Ramona Wiggins, Director of Graduate Admission and AI Fellow and Artist

Dr. Denise Malloy, Executive Director of HBCU Coding & Creativity and AI Fellow and Artist

Mr. Bryson Scott, Smart Technologist and AI Animated Artist

Have you ever found yourself at the crossroads of self-doubt and aspiration, wondering how to make your mark in the design space? If so, then this talk is for you. Through personal anecdotes and actionable insights, we aim to motivate and guide aspiring designers to embrace their identities, fuel their creativity, and confidently pursue their passions in the ever-evolving design space. Join us as we unravel the essence of making your mark in the design world, transforming challenges into a playbook for success.

Workshop Leader: John Ferguson, Work & Co.