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It’s crucial for Black professionals to not just follow technological advancements but to drive them.
Jeff Nelson, co-founder and chief operating officer (COO) of Blavity Inc., embodies this approach. With over 10 years of pioneering work at the company, now reaching millions of users each month, he has contributed significantly to its technology and software development. As the former chief technology officer, he was responsible for development, data analytics, and technical infrastructure, his LinkedIn mentions.
In 2022, Nelson stepped into the role of COO, tasked with responsibilities centering data, product, engineering, and audience development, as well as furthering the support for Black professionals through AFROTECH™ and Talent Infusion, which is designed to connect top diverse candidates with employers.
AFROTECH™ AI Hackathon
With the upcoming AFROTECH™ Conference set to return on Nov. 13-16, 2024, and for the first time in Houston, TX, Nelson is now backing a new initiative aimed at further empowering Black professionals in tech. Starting Aug. 19, 2024, developers, coders, builders, hackers, and technologists who are in mid-career and above and over 21 years old are encouraged to participate in the AFROTECH™ AI Hackathon 2024.
“At Blavity, we’re deeply committed to creating opportunities for Black professionals to excel in tech. This commitment isn’t just theoretical for me — it’s something I live and breathe every day,” Nelson told AFROTECH™. “My technical roots remind me of the power of being able to build something from scratch, and that’s the spirit I want to bring to the AFROTECH™ AI Hackathon. This event is about more than just coding; it’s about empowering our community to use technology to solve real-world problems that affect us all.”
He added, “I’m always pushing to ensure that our events, like the AI Hackathon, are designed not only to showcase the incredible talent within our community but also to challenge participants to think creatively and critically about how technology can be used for good. Ultimately, my goal is to create an environment where innovation isn’t just encouraged — it’s woven into everything we do. Whether I’m working on high-level strategy or rolling up my sleeves to solve a tech challenge, I’m committed to making sure that Blavity and AFROTECH™ continue to be platforms where Black technologists can thrive and lead in the tech industry.”
Expectations
Those interested in applying for the virtual hackathon, which will be hosted on DevPost, must develop or update a software application that incorporates APIs from Google Gemini or OpenAI. Additionally, it must be suited to the following categories: health and medical, sustainability, cyber security and risk, or skills-based workforce development.
Nelson underscores the importance of people of color leaning into strengthening their technical skills as it widens their prospects in the job market beyond traditional tech roles. It also guarantees greater representation in technological advancements, making sure people of color have a role in shaping a future that benefits their communities.
“On our Talent Infusion SaaS platform, more and more companies are hiring based on what you can do rather than just what degrees you have. For people of color, gaining these technical skills means unlocking a lot of doors that might have been closed before,” Nelson said. “When you have the skills to code, work with AI, or develop software, you’re not just limited to traditional tech roles — you can apply those abilities across industries. Whether it’s healthcare, finance, or even creative fields, tech skills are becoming a must-have. And with skills-based hiring, having a strong portfolio or experience can be just as valuable, if not more so, than a traditional resume.”
He added, “For communities of color, this is especially important. By mastering technical skills, you’re not only making yourself more competitive, but you’re also putting yourself in a position to influence the kinds of technologies and products that are being created. It’s about making sure that our voices are part of the future, and that the solutions being developed actually reflect and serve our communities.”
Prizes
To incentivize and reward partipants for their labor, three tiers of prizes will be up for grabs. The individual who earns first place will be compensated with a $7,500 cash prize, up to $5,000 team travel reimbursement for AFROTECH™ Conference 2024, a complimentary AFROTECH™ 2024 All-Access Ticket, an editorial feature on the AFROTECH™ website following the event, and a complimentary AFROTECH™ Insider Membership.
Second place will take home a $5,000 cash prize and receive a complimentary AFROTECH™ Conference 2024 Executive Ticket, an editorial feature on the AFROTECH™ website, and a complimentary AFROTECH™ Insider Membership as well.
The incentives for third place are $2,500, along with a complementary AFROTECH™ Conference 2024 General Admission Ticket and AFROTECH™ Insider Membership.
Register Today
Access for submissions is open Aug. 19 through Sept. 30. Judging will commence for a week starting Oct. 2.
With the winner announced Oct. 14, awards will be presented at the upcoming AFROTECH™ Conference.
“The main takeaway we want individuals to walk away with from the AFROTECH™ AI Hackathon is that they have the power and capability to drive meaningful change through technology,” Nelson expressed. “We want participants to leave feeling empowered and confident that their ideas, skills, and innovations can make a significant impact on both the tech industry and their communities. By solving real-world problems that affect communities of color, we hope to inspire them to continue pushing the boundaries of what’s possible and to recognize that they are not just consumers of technology but also its creators and leaders.”
Register for the 2024 AFROTECH™ AI Hackathon today.
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