The Black Excellence Brunch brought its signature program to AfroTech Week on Oct. 30, 2025, at Soirée Event Venue in Houston.
The internationally celebrated brunch was founded by media expert and culture curator Trell Thomas. This edition was powered by Amazon Security and centered on the theme “Securing the Future—AI, Innovation & the New Era of Black Excellence.”
Executives, engineers, creatives, and community leaders gathered for a family-style meal and discussion focused on the intersection of culture and technology.
The program opened with a live performance by Tierra Kennedy, who performed “Blackbird,” the song she is featured on from Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter album. Thomas then welcomed attendees and reflected on the mission to secure the future of Black excellence through innovation and unity. An Amazon Security executive also spoke on Amazon’s commitment to empowering Black leaders shaping the digital landscape.
The fireside chat, moderated by Kourtney Hayes, featured aerospace engineer, entrepreneur, and Blue Origin astronaut Aisha Bowe and AI and innovation leader Precious Tate. They shared reflections on how Black women are shaping the fields of AI, aerospace, and cybersecurity, and bringing cultural and ethical awareness to the forefront of tech.
The event closed with an honoree moment recognizing leaders advancing excellence and security in the digital era, followed by a symbolic “giving of flowers,” music, and community connection.
“This brunch was a reminder that innovation without inclusion isn’t progress,” Thomas said. “Our goal is to ensure that as the future unfolds, through AI, data, and design—Black voices, stories, and leadership state rooted at the heart of our mission.”
The Black Excellence Brunch has scaled into a global movement and is known for celebrating the collective brilliance of Black leaders through the tradition of Sunday Dinner, including a White House edition in 2024.
