There aren’t too many spaces where young creatives of color can gather, network, celebrate their identities, have some fun and most importantly build collectively. CultureCon is returning for a second year to give these creatives a brave space to do just that.  

The second annual CultureCon—a conference dedicated to shining a light on the importance of people of color empowering those around them—is going down in New York City this weekend and with a lineup including Charlamagne tha God, La La Anthony, DeRay Mckesson, and more, it’s sure to be an event to remember. Formed by The Creative Collective NYC aka The CCNYC, the one-day conference will feature fireside chats, panel discussions and workshops so that entrepreneurs and creatives of color can celebrate and embrace their influence on society.

We chatted with two The CCNYC team members to learn more about their roles in The CCNYC, the vision behind CultureCon, the difference between brave spaces and safe spaces and more. Meet Tequilla and Tannis (pictured below on the far left): 

Tell us what you do for The Creative Collective NYC.

Tannis: We all definitely jump in where needed but I mainly run our digital operations and content strategy.

Tequilla: I manage the volunteers for all of our events as well as press coverage for The Creative Collective as a whole and our larger events like CultureCon.

What does being apart of such a dope organization focused on empowering people of color mean to you?

Tannis: Being apart of the The CCNYC has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my adult life and has truly helped shape my overall New York experience. I’ve met some of the most creative, intelligent, and like-minded peers since being apart of this organization and those relationships will continue to be the biggest takeaway for me. I also thrive off of the black-excellence that we bring together – the spaces we’re able to create for people that look and sound like us is what makes this all worth it.

Tequilla: It is a great way for me to give back to my community and help to build others up using my experience in communications and my love for connecting people.

Tell us your why behind CultureCon.

Tannis: Why CultureCon? Because we need it. We need spaces made for us, by us, that celebrate us and that was our intention with CultureCon.

Tequilla: CultureCon is what happens when we create what we’ve been missing. Instead of feeling that we need to go elsewhere to get the quality experience we deserve, we can create it ourselves. It is so important for us to see our own experiences reflected in the people who inspire us. CultureCon provides that.

What’s the difference between a brave space vs. a safe space?

Tannis: A brave space is for those ready to leave their comfort zone and experience something bigger than themselves. A safe space is similar but might not force you to step outside of yourself and learn something new.

Tequilla: Playing it safe will only get you so far. Taking risks builds character and allows you to really grow and learn. Being uncomfortable is when you really can be the most creative and I think showing our tribe examples of success through adversity gives them them that push to continue fighting.

What are you most excited about for this year’s CultureCon?

Tannis: I’m excited to see how people react to everything we’ve put together! It’s an exciting day and we’ve put in a lot of effort to make this a fun, captivating, and authentic experience for our peers.

Tequilla: While we have some of the best talent on the planet this year, I am more excited for people to come to CultureCon and feel at home. As long as they leave inspired and reenergized, we have succeeded.

What’s your positive message for the remainder of 2018?

Tannis: Do what makes your heart happy!

Tequilla: A winner never quits on themselves.

For more information on #CultureCon, or to purchase tickets, visit theccnyc.com.

OCTOBER 12, 2018