A Gathering Of Exceptional Leaders
The African American Leadership Institute invites you to submit a proposal to present at the 2024 Black X Conference in Austin, TX on Tuesday, June 18th. We invite experts, thought leaders, workshop facilitators, and other dynamic individuals to pitch their most unique and insightful sessions, panels, firesides, and solos.
Last year, exceptional black leaders told us they want to go even deeper into topics that help prepare them to navigate the rapidly-changing cultural landscape. For 2024, our conference theme is “Rise to Xcellence: Empowering Black Futures”
Austin offers numerous economic, educational, and social opportunities just waiting to be discovered. Black leaders, wealth builders, entrepreneurs and professionals from all across the state and beyond will gather for an inspiring day of uniquely curated professional and personal development and networking opportunities designed to refresh, restore, educate, and maximize connections.
Attendee Composition: This conference is anticipated to host 300+ attendees. Black X Conference attendees are adult professionals to retirees in the Central Texas area and beyond.
Submission Considerations
If you are selected as a presenter, you will receive a complimentary registration for the Black x Conference. Although we wish we could help defray the costs of presenters, AALI cannot reimburse conference presenters for speaking, travel or hotel expenses.
If selected as a presenter, you will be required to share your intended session details: ROS, Description, Presentation Slides for review by the programming committee.
Creating Presentation Materials and Choosing Audio-Visual Equipment
Presentation materials are welcome! As a selected presenter, you will be responsible for providing any materials for use or distribution in your presentation. AALI will provide A/V costs to support your presentation [Projection for presentation slides, microphone and sound system].
Commercial Solicitation
Commercial solicitation is prohibited at all presentations. If you are representing a commercial interest, your presentation must be educational in nature. If the essential purpose of a proposal is to promote books, materials, or services for sale, it will not be accepted. It will be considered as an informational session. Proposals of a sales nature can be submitted as an exhibitor session.
Submission Deadline
Proposals are due 8:00 a.m. CDT Friday, April 19, 2024. All applicants notified of selection decisions by Wednesday, May 15, 2024.
Presentation Guidelines
Tips & Guidelines
Here are some tips and additional information to help you when planning your Black x Conference presentation proposal.
Presentation Types
The following presentation types are planned for the 3rd Annual Conference. The programming committee may help you choose the format that fits your content and presentation style.
Session. A 60-minute traditional session solo led or panel style. Panels should focus on specific subjects, comprising three speakers maximum and a moderator.
Power Session. A 60-minute session that is a short presentation over a topic, resource or tool.
Workshop. A 60-minute workshops should include in-depth learning and exploration.
Teacher Take. Short individual TED-style presentations.
Receiving Notification “You Have Been Selected to Present”
Acceptance/rejection notification will be sent via email to the primary presenters. It is the primary presenter's responsibility to relay that information to all co-presenters. If you do not receive notice by the end of April 2024, please contact events@aaliaustin.org.
Proposal Review Process
The current acceptance rate for sessions and power sessions is approximately 40-60 percent.
Please keep in mind that presentation slots are limited. For this reason, presenters may not appear on the program in more than two presentations at any point.
Multiple reviewers score each proposal using a blind review process. Reviewers use the following questions when scoring proposals. Keep these in mind while drafting your proposal.
How well does the title and approach match the presentation description?
Are the objectives and purpose statements of the session clearly stated?
Is the content highlighted in the presentation relevant to the intended audience?
Can the objectives be met and participant experience described be accomplished in the type of presentation selected?
Do the presentation strategies include opportunities for audience interaction?
Does the proposal present an instructional method or strategy that one would like to learn more about?
Does the proposal present a new topic or instructional practice?
Is this a session that you would want to attend?
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I submit my proposal?
All proposals must be submitted via our submission form.
Do I have to be an AALI Fellow/Alumni to present?
No, you do not. We encourage speakers from all backgrounds and experiences to contribute to our collective conference. Diverse perspectives help enhance the quality of discussions and ensure a comprehensive and inclusive exploration of all of our conference themes.
Is there a fee to submit a proposal or participate in the conference?
No. If selected to present, your conference registration will equally be waived.
Can I submit more than one proposal?
Yes. However, it is unlikely that multiple proposals will be accepted.
When do I need to complete my submission?
The deadline for submitting proposals is April 15, 2024.
How will AALI amplify my involvement?
Opportunity to speak to the audience in form of a Panel, Fireside Chat or Lecture
1 IG/FB/LK Feed Post between May-June
1 Feature in E-blast anytime between May-June
1 Registration Ticket to Attend Black X Conference
Professional photography coverage of the session
2024: Primary Focus Areas
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The Arts, Culture & Entertainment track at our conference celebrates the vibrant intersection of creativity, media, and cultural expression. This track welcomes proposals that explore the role of arts, culture, and entertainment in shaping society, fostering creativity, and promoting diversity. We invite submissions from artists, cultural leaders, media professionals, and creatives who are redefining the cultural landscape. Share your artistic vision, cultural insights, and creative strategies. Submit your proposal now to showcase how arts, culture, and media are shaping our world!
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The Technology track at our conference is designed to explore the latest trends, innovations, and challenges in the ever-evolving world of technology. This track welcomes proposals that discuss emerging technologies, digital transformations, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and more. We invite submissions from technology experts, researchers, and industry leaders who are at the forefront of technological advancements. Share your knowledge, insights, and best practices with our audience.
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This track is dedicated to financial literacy, wealth building, and economic empowerment within the Black community. It aims to provide attendees with knowledge and tools for personal finance management, investment strategies, and understanding the financial markets. Sessions on navigating the challenges of wealth accumulation, estate planning, and generational wealth transfer are crucial. The impact of this track lies in its potential to foster financial independence and economic growth among attendees, contributing to the broader goal of closing the racial wealth gap.
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The Government, Policy & Public Safety track at our conference focuses on the intersection of governance, policy-making, and ensuring public safety. This track welcomes proposals that explore innovative strategies, best practices, and challenges faced in these critical areas. We invite submissions from experts, practitioners, and researchers who are shaping the future of government and public safety policies. Share your insights and contribute to the dialogue that shapes our communities. Submit your proposal today!
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The Education track at our conference is dedicated to advancing discussions on educational practices, policies, and innovations. This track welcomes proposals that explore cutting-edge approaches, transformative initiatives, and challenges in education today. We invite submissions from educators, administrators, researchers, and policymakers who are driving change and excellence in education. Share your knowledge, insights, and best practices to inspire and shape the future of education. Submit your proposal now to be part of this impactful conversation!
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The Employment & Workforce Equity track at our conference centers on promoting inclusive workplaces and equitable opportunities. This track welcomes proposals that delve into strategies, initiatives, and policies aimed at achieving workforce equity and fostering diverse, inclusive environments. We invite submissions from professionals, advocates, and researchers who are driving change in employment practices and workforce equity. Share your expertise, insights, and successes in advancing workplace equity. Submit your proposal today and be a part of this crucial conversation!
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The Health & Wellness track at our conference focuses on promoting holistic well-being and exploring innovative approaches to healthcare. This track welcomes proposals that address physical, mental, and emotional health, as well as strategies for promoting wellness and preventing illness. We invite submissions from healthcare professionals, researchers, wellness experts, and advocates who are dedicated to improving health outcomes and quality of life. Share your expertise, insights, and best practices in the field of health and wellness. Submit your proposal today to contribute to a healthier future for all!