Black Education Expo Returns to Pasadena, Aiming to Empower Communities of Color

The Black Education Expo (BEE) returns to Pasadena on Saturday, Oct. 12, offering a day of educational resources and workshops focused on empowering communities of color.

The free event, co-presented by Pasadena Councilmember Tyron Hampton (District 1), takes place inside the Conference Center at the Pasadena Convention Center, at 300 E. Green Street, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., organizers announced.

Attendees from across Southern California will have access to over 50 exhibitors in the expo hall, as well as workshops covering topics such as college admissions, youth leadership, and financial literacy.

The expo aims to provide curated, culturally relevant educational resources for K-12 students aged 5 to 18, with a focus on Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) tools.

Victoria Williams, founder of the Black Education Expo, described the event as “a powerful hub for families of color, educators, and community members” to exchange knowledge, foster education equity, and celebrate shared cultural wealth.

The expo will feature a Kids Zone with activities like face painting and storytelling by local authors, catering to younger children in attendance.

Organizers plan to distribute over 500 books featuring protagonists of color to promote literacy and encourage a love of reading across generations.

Tech partners will provide laptops to qualified students and community members, addressing the digital divide and ensuring access to essential technology.

The event has garnered support from various organizations, including Pasadena City College, Pasadena Unified School District, Los Angeles Urban League, Citizens Business Bank, Community Tech Network, California State University, Dominguez Hills Workforce Development, Delete the Divide (Los Angeles County), International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 11, and over 20 community-based groups.

While the expo is free for attendees, organizers are welcoming sponsors and donations to support the initiative and ensure continued access to vital resources for communities of color.

For more information, visit the event website, www.blackeducationexpo.com, follow @blackeducationexpo on social media, email info@blackeducationexpo.com or call (323) 475-6293.

Registration is available at https://form.jotform.com/241636227436053.