The 19th Annual Black New England Conference: A Celebration of Culture and Progress
Event Details
Mark your calendars for the 19th Annual Black New England Conference (BNEC) on Saturday, October 25, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Hosted at Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) in Manchester, NH, this conference promises to be an enriching experience focused on the intersection of social media and the African American community.
Focus and Themes
This year’s event centers around the role of Black influencers in shaping narratives and experiences within the African American context. As the nation approaches its 250th anniversary, attendees will engage in discussions surrounding progress made in various sectors, including education, economic disparities, political disenfranchisement, and criminal justice reform.
Engaging Panel Discussions
A highlight of the BNEC will be a panel featuring prominent social media influencers who will bring diverse perspectives on how far African Americans have come. They will discuss ongoing challenges and outline pathways for future empowerment. This panel aims to provide attendees with both inspiration and practical strategies for advocating for change in their communities.
Keynote Speaker: Lynae Vanee
One of the most anticipated segments of the conference is the keynote address by Lynae Vanee, a well-known media personality based in Atlanta. With her background as an activist, entrepreneur, and social media star, Vanee has established herself as a critical voice in advocating for social justice. She will be engaged in a fireside chat with actor and TV news host Shannon LaNier, promising an enlightening conversation around resilience and the significance of Black voices in America.
Vanee’s Background and Impact
Lynae Vanee is not only a graduate of Spelman College (B.A. in Psychology) and Boston University (M.A. in African American Studies), but she has also successfully transitioned from academia to the digital landscape. Her viral Instagram series, “Parking Lot Pimpin’,” showcases her unique approach to discussing Black history and current events, all while maintaining a light-hearted touch. Her tagline, “I’ma keep it Black, but I’ma keep it brief,” reflects her ability to distill complex issues into digestible conversations.
Personal Odes and Brand Ventures
Beyond her influence in media, Vanee is also the founder of the self-care brand VANE, deeply rooted in her Gullah Geechee heritage. Through her brand, she promotes the importance of wellness and self-love, particularly within marginalized communities. Her collaborations with notable figures like Kamala Harris and brands such as Netflix and Tommy Hilfiger underline her extensive reach across education, entertainment, and activism. Furthermore, her nominations for multiple NAACP Image Awards spotlight her contributions to cultural dialogue.
Registration Information
Those interested in attending can follow this link for more details. Registration is open for both in-person and virtual attendance. The costs are as follows:
- In-person attendance: $95, including a luncheon (Early Bird rate of $75 until August 31)
- Virtual attendance: $45
Organizing Body: The Black Heritage Trail of New Hampshire
The Black Heritage Trail of New Hampshire (BHTNH) underlines this event’s significance. As a 501(c)(3) organization, BHTNH is committed to increasing awareness and appreciation of African American history. Their efforts include educational programs, exhibits, and community outreach aimed at reshaping how the diverse histories of African heritage are valued and recognized today.
For further inquiries, you can reach the BHTNH at (603) 570-8469 or send an email to info@blackheritagetrailnh.org.
Mark your calendars and prepare for a day of insightful conversations, powerful voices, and an exploration of the ongoing journey towards equity and inclusion.