About this Event
Join members of Steelcase and the BeBIG Business Inclusion Group in-person for an inspiring and future-focused conversation with Omari Souza, founder of the conference and thought leader in the intersection of design, culture, and equity. Omari will share stories, strategies, and insights from his newest book— Design Against Racism: Creating Work That Transforms Communities—and unpack how design can be leveraged as a powerful force for justice, belonging, and community transformation. Check out his video,
What to Expect
- A keynote conversation with Omari Souza
- Insights on actionable strategies for embedding equity into design practice and organizational culture
- Opportunities to connect with peers committed to inclusive, justice-centered design
- Space for Q&A and audience dialogue
- Following the conversation will be hosting an afterglow with a Jamaican-inspired meal and non-alcoholic beverages.
Together with Omari, we’ll dive into themes such as:
- Design as a catalyst for equity and systemic change—and how the design industry can evolve to serve more people, more fairly.
- Language as both a barrier and a tool for resistance, shaping narratives and power structures within the built environment and cultural systems.
- Afrofuturism and Hip-Hop Architecture as frameworks that unlock innovation, community-centered design, and new possibilities for justice-oriented work.
- Designing with communities, not just for them, aligning deeply with Steelcase’s mission to create meaningful, human-centered experiences that help all people thrive.
Agenda:
- 5:30-6pm: Welcome
- 6-7pm:Discussion, and Q+A with Omari Souza
- 7-8:30pm: Dinner + Debrief and Networking
- 8:30pm: Depart
Dinner will be provided by the amazing Chef Mayweather with Social Arts!
Menu: Vegetarian Rasta Pasta, Jerk Wings, Fried Plantains, Jamaican Patties, and Ting Soda
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Grand Rapids African American Museum & Archives (GRAAMA), 41 Sheldon Boulevard Southeast, Grand Rapids, United States
USD 0.00












