Picture this. Atlanta 2019. A friend sends you a post from 21Ninety’s page asking for volunteers. You’re a photographer. You have followed Blavity for a few years so you shoot your shot. What could happen right? The story begins. I had one of the BEST experiences volunteering for Summit 21 this year in Atlanta.

Photo: LaSundra Davis

I had a rough week and was almost ready to throw the whole weekend away. I am SO HAPPY that didn’t happen. It started with shooting for the RNB House Party Kickoff. It was great meeting Morgan DeBaun and her team. The professionalism and appreciation of the team was the first thing that stood out to me. The House Party was a blast to shoot and be a part of. The people. The style. The music. The dancing. A great kickoff for what was going to be an amazing weekend!

Photo: LaSundra Davis

Photo: LaSundra Davis

The Summit. I have never seen so much beautiful Black girl magic in one place. The atmosphere and vibe were so electric and welcoming. The details! Oh, the details! They were so on point! You could really tell a lot of thought and work went into putting on this Summit. From the Summit 21 decals leading up the escalators to the empowerment messages on the walls to the MANY photo ops to the beautiful floral walkway to the vendors and sponsors! You were visually reminded you were there for uplifting and leveling up with every turn!

Photo: LaSundra Davis

Most of the classes I attended were on the Entrepreneurship Stage. The speakers were AWESOME! They were so knowledgeable yet relatable. I got my life many times over in those classes and it sounded like I definitely was not the only one. We let the speakers know we were listening by the many sister girl shouts of approval and truth ringing out.

Photo: LaSundra Davis

One of my main takeaways from the weekend was to not be afraid to go after what you want however you must be prepared when you do. Have specific questions or points you need help with when reaching out to people. Preparation is key!

Photo: LaSundra Davis

As a budding entrepreneur, Summit 21 was the place to be! We listened. We learned. We laughed. We danced. We were poured into. I left the conference feeling energized and ready to turn my side hustle into a business. This is a small snapshot of the weekend and it all happened while volunteering at this year’s Summit 21 in Atlanta. I know California is going to be AMAZING!

Photo: LaSundra Davis

Photo: LaSundra Davis

Photo: LaSundra Davis

Photo: LaSundra Davis

Photo: LaSundra Davis

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