Black Excellence in Tech: Pioneering the Future We Live In

Black innovators and leaders have ALWAYS been at the forefront of technological advancements! From the hidden figures of NASA to the tech giants shaping our world today, Black Americans continue to defy odds and make history.

Ready to meet some of the incredible minds who are shaping the future of technology? Let’s dive in!

• Building Billion Dollar Dreams: Tope Awotona @tope: – This Nigerian-born tech titan is the CEO and founder of Calendly, a scheduling app used by millions. Awotona’s hustle and innovation landed him a spot on the prestigious Forbes Black Billionaires list, proving that Black excellence knows no bounds!
• From YouTube Star to Tech Guru: Marques Brownlee (MKBHD) – If you’re a tech enthusiast, you already know MKBHD! This charismatic influencer uses his platform to deliver insightful and engaging tech reviews, sparking conversations and igniting a passion for tech in a whole new generation.
• The Real Hidden Figures: Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, Mary Jackson – We can’t talk about Black brilliance in tech without recognizing these pioneering women. Their groundbreaking contributions at NASA, documented in the incredible film “Hidden Figures,” were crucial to America’s space race success.

Deep Dive:

Katherine Johnson

Katherine Johnson’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance. Despite facing racial and gender barriers, her exceptional mathematical mind played a pivotal role in calculating trajectories for NASA’s early missions, including the Apollo 11 moon landing. Her incredible story is a reminder that brilliance can come from anywhere, and that fostering inclusive environments allows all minds to thrive.

Marques Brownlee: From Backyard Reviews to Tech Titan: The Rise of MKBHD

Marques Brownlee, better known as MKBHD on YouTube, isn’t your average tech reviewer. Forget sterile studios and scripted monologues. MKBHD’s infectious enthusiasm and relatable style have catapulted him to the top of the tech influencer hierarchy.

It all started in his New Jersey backyard, where a teenage Marques filmed reviews on a borrowed camera. His genuine passion for gadgets and his knack for breaking down complex tech into bite-sized pieces resonated with viewers. Fast forward to today, MKBHD boasts over 15 million subscribers, making him a tech tastemaker whose opinions can sway consumer decisions.

But MKBHD is more than just reviews. His high-production-value videos delve into the science behind the tech, pushing boundaries with in-depth comparisons and engaging experiments. He isn’t afraid to call out flaws or critique industry giants, earning him respect from both viewers and tech companies alike.

MKBHD’s influence extends beyond YouTube. He’s interviewed tech titans like Elon Musk and graced the covers of prestigious tech publications. But his focus remains clear: to empower viewers with knowledge and ignite their passion for technology. MKBHD’s journey is a testament to the power of hard work, authenticity, and a genuine love for the ever-evolving world of tech.

Tope Awotona : From Savings to Billions: Tope Awotona Builds a Scheduling Empire

Tope Awotona, the Nigerian-born tech titan, isn’t your typical billionaire. He poured his life savings into Calendly, a scheduling app that streamlines the nightmare of email ping-pong. Awotona’s hustle and innovation not only landed him on the Forbes Black Billionaires list, but also transformed the way millions manage their calendars. Calendly’s user-friendly interface and freemium model make it a global success story, proving that billion-dollar ideas can come from the most practical problems.

Challenges and Solutions

While Black individuals are making significant strides in tech, there’s still a long way to go. Lack of access to resources and mentorship during crucial developmental stages can hinder their entry into the tech field.

Organizations like Black Girls Code (https://www.wearebgc.org/) and the National Society of Black Engineers (https://www.nsbe.org/) are working tirelessly to bridge this gap. These organizations provide vital resources, mentorship programs, and scholarships, empowering the next generation of Black tech leaders.

Question

The future of tech is bright, and Black brilliance is a driving force behind its innovation. Here’s how you can be a part of the movement:

Support Black-Owned Tech Businesses! Do your research and invest in the future by using their products and services. Here are a few examples to get you started:

• Colormatics: ( ) This data analytics company uses AI to help businesses understand their audience and optimize marketing strategies. You can learn more about Colormatics on their website: https://www.colormatics.com/
• Lisnr: ( ) Their technology utilizes sound waves to transmit data between devices, with applications in mobile payments and secure data sharing. Visit Lisnr’s website to explore their work: https://lisnr.com/
• PowerVote: ( ) This mobile voting platform aims to make voting easier and more secure. Find out more about PowerVote on their LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/
• Blooom: ( ) Blooom is a fintech company that helps people manage their retirement savings. Read more about Blooom on Newswire: https://www.startlandnews.com/ Blooom company logo
• BotMe: ( ) Founded by Kimberly Bryant, BotMe is a social enterprise that introduces young girls to coding and artificial intelligence. BotMe’s website offers more information on their programs: https://wuzzuf.net/jobs/careers/WideBot-Egypt-2275

Black excellence in tech is not just about celebrating the past. It’s about empowering the present and shaping a future where innovation is fueled by diversity and inclusion. By actively supporting Black-owned businesses, mentoring future generations, and promoting awareness, we can all be a part of building the tech future we deserve – a future brimming with