Black Education Expo Empowers Youth Through Community and Resources

The Black Education Expo (BEE), founded by Victoria Williams, brought together attendees from across Southern California and as far as Toronto, Canada to provide educational resources and community support for K-12 students of color. The event, co-presented by Pasadena Councilmember Tyron Hampton, focused on education, entrepreneurship, and STEM to empower youth and their families.

“The BEE is both a vital resource hub and a family reunion, where educators, parents, and community leaders reconnect and share knowledge,” organizers said, emphasizing the event’s dual purpose of information sharing and community building.

The program kicked off with a vibrant performance of African drumming and dance by a local family, setting a celebratory and culturally rich tone.

The Expo featured 10 diverse workshops covering topics such as parenting children with learning challenges, college admissions, dual enrollment, scholarships, and University of California admission tips. Some workshops addressed timely issues, offering student voter education in honor of National Voter Education Week and mental health resources recognizing World Mental Health Day.

Over 60 curated, culturally relevant exhibitors provided hands-on experiences, including Sphero robotics demonstrations, golf pros of color showcasing their skills, and interactive sessions. Organizations like South LA Robotics, the University of California, Hidden Genius Project, Black College Success, California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office, Black Math Collective, Psyches of Color, and the Institute for Educational Advancement connected students with opportunities ranging from STEM to filmmaking, theater, and dance.

Three students — Carter Baker, Kendall Jones-Wright, and Paige Triplett — were honored as Black Education Expo Scholars and received certificates from U.S. Congresswoman Judy Chu, Assemblymember Chris Holden, and Senator Anthony Portantino.

The event also distributed over 500 books and offered technology giveaways to support students’ digital learning needs.

Kameale Terry, CEO of ChargerHelp!, led an engaging teen workshop that inspired students to see themselves as future innovators and leaders in various fields.

Workforce development was a key focus, with organizations like IBEW Local 11 highlighting career pathways for youth of color. The Bridge Builders Foundation brought more than 50 scholars from their Youth Leadership Council to participate in the event.

The Black Education Expo received support from over 40 community organizations, including NCNW, NAACP, members of the Divine 9, and various clergy groups. Major sponsors included Pasadena City College, Pasadena Unified School District, Black College Success, IBEW Local 11, Los Angeles Urban League, and Bridge Builders Foundation.

Organizer Victoria Williams envisioned the BEE as a vital hybrid platform to ensure resources are shared and communal ties are strengthened.

Looking ahead, the BEE plans to expand with a virtual series in Winter, pop-up Expos across Southern California, and the next in-person event scheduled for Feb. 22, 2025.

BEE is actively seeking additional partners and supporters to help expand its reach.

For more information or to support the BEE’s mission, those interested can visit www.blackeducationExpo.com or email info@blackeducationExpo.com.