Marshalle Favors leads the 5th annual Detroit Black Film Festival (DBFF), continuing its mission to showcase the voices and stories of Black independent filmmakers from across the nation. In this episode, we explore how film production plays a pivotal role in curating the festival and more. DBFF is committed to screening exceptional films from both seasoned and emerging filmmakers, offering a rich spectrum of stories that reflect African American experiences, narratives, and culture. Special thanks to the Ford Foundation for their generous support and our host venues: the Michigan State University Detroit Center, the Carr Center, the Doubletree Hotel, and the Downtown Detroit Boll Family YMCA. This year’s DBFF coincides with The Taste of Black Spirits National Conference, themed “Cinema & Culture over Cocktails,” and will take place from Wednesday, September 25 to Sunday, September 29, 2024, across five locations.

Get ready for a truly unique and exciting experience at the Taste of Black Spirits: National Conference Cocktail Concierge! In this engaging podcast, we explore the role of Black ownership in the liquor industry and what it signifies. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or simply curious to discover new flavors, this event promises something special for everyone. On Saturday, September 28, 2024, from 6:00 to 11:00 PM (Eastern Daylight Time), join us at the elegant 525 West Lafayette Terrace Room in Detroit, MI. This stunning venue sets the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable evening of fine spirits and exceptional company. At the event, you’ll savor a wide variety of handcrafted cocktails, expertly crafted by talented mixologists. From classic favorites to innovative creations, each drink highlights the diverse flavors and cultural richness of Black-owned spirits. Don’t miss this celebration of taste, culture, and community!

Shelby Love is pouring her passion for art and expression into the vibrant Detroit art scene. In this episode, we explore how her creativity was ignited through music and song from her mother, while her father’s love for sketching nurtured her talent for visual art. As the Head Artist and Director of Detroit Does It Better: Art Exhibition, Shelby is bringing the city’s artistic culture to life on September 21st. This event highlights Detroit’s incredible talent through graffiti, paintings, sculptures, photography, makeup, and body painting, all inspired by the city’s rich culture. You’ll discover the unique stories behind each original piece created by Shelby and her team. Whether you’re a collector or simply appreciate art, this exhibition is a must-see. Join us for an evening of inspiration, connect with fellow art lovers, and experience the best of Detroit’s vibrant and positive art community in person! Don’t miss this incredible opportunity—mark your calendars today!

Miss Eva’s is an upcoming speakeasy experience in the Grandmont Rosedale Park community, offering a unique blend of crafted cocktails inspired by the African diaspora, along with exceptional non-alcoholic options. This intimate venue will also serve as a destination for live neo-soul and R&B concerts, creating a cozy yet vibrant atmosphere. The venture is spearheaded by Jay Williams, a construction engineer who grew up in Rosedale Park and draws inspiration from his grandmother, Miss Eva, who was deeply rooted in both business and community work. Jay credits his career in construction engineering and project management with equipping him for this new business endeavor. Learn more about Jay Williams and his vision for Miss Eva’s on Detroit is Different.

Asandi Conner’s journey with the Detroit Equity Action Lab and Wayne State University is one that unfolded in ways she never anticipated. Growing up in the historic Conant Gardens on Detroit’s Eastside and proudly graduating from Osborn High School, Asandi’s early years were steeped in writing and fueled by a dream of becoming a newscaster—a dream that naturally transitioned into a passion for journalism. As a student at Wayne State University, she chronicled the Black student movement’s efforts to establish a Black studies department, honoring esteemed professors like Dr. Gloria House, affectionately known as Mama Aneb.

This period of activism and advocacy set Asandi on a path of leadership, which later saw her contributing to the Nsoroma Institute and eventually stepping into her current role. A dynamic and thoughtful creative, Asandi reflects on how her life’s work has always been about amplifying voices, inspiring change, and championing equity.

Crystal L. Gunn is a Financial Strategist and Women’s Empowerment Coach who has built a career dedicated to empowering others with the knowledge she has gained from her own experiences. Raised in a home where reading and writing were emphasized, she now uses these talents to inspire, collaborate, and uplift others. From her early business education at Cass Tech and Michigan State University to becoming the youngest vice president of a Credit Union in Michigan, Crystal has successfully navigated the corporate world. Her journey through business has seen her develop successful ventures while also understanding the consequences of unmet expectations. This episode of Detroit is Different highlights the valuable knowledge, wisdom, and lessons that Crystal has accumulated and now shares through her work.

Kamau Inaede is a unique blend of roles seldom seen together: Cigar Social and Networking enthusiast, Life Insurance Sales Agent, Curator, Musician, and Board Chairman. His journey of creativity and initiative began at an early age as one of the founding members of the internationally touring Spain Elementary Marching Band, which grounded him in structure and discipline. Music and rhythm have always aligned with his sense of purpose. Kamau shares insights on his community upbringing, his passion for teaching and empowerment, and his years of experience in entrepreneurship and wealth building. On this episode of Detroit is Different, Kamau delves into college organizing, the significance of cigar meetings, and the political dynamics shaping Detroit’s Black legacy.

In high school, running cross country provided Karen Dumas with a competitive edge that she carries with her today. Growing up on the lower Eastside by the Detroit River, where she still resides, Karen found clarity in her career path after one year at Michigan State University, realizing her passion for business. She founded Ideas and Images, a communications firm that has thrived under her leadership. Karen excels at helping clients connect their messages to people, demonstrating her exceptional skills and talent in communication. Her understanding of the intricacies of sender, receiver, response, and feedback sets her apart, turning what many find exhausting into her area of expertise. In this episode of Detroit is Different, we explore how Karen navigates the intersections of business, politics, and public attention, discussing both the benefits and challenges. Meet Karen Dumas on Detroit is Different.