The summit will feature an inspiring keynote address by Zamaswazi Dlamini-Mandela, a renowned humanitarian and entrepreneur, and the granddaughter of the late Nelson and Winnie Mandela. Zamaswazi has dedicated her life to advocating for social justice, education, and the empowerment of marginalized communities. Her work has spanned continents, focusing on youth leadership and the importance of emotional intelligence in personal and community development. As a powerful voice for change, she will share insights drawn from her experiences and the legacy of her grandfather, inspiring attendees to harness the power of SEL in their own lives and communities.
In addition to the keynote address, the summit will offer a series of breakout sessions led by experts in the health, wellness and mental health realm, who will explore nurturing resilience and empowerment within Black families and communities. Participants will engage in discussions on best practices, innovative strategies, and collaborative approaches to enhance SEL initiatives in schools and community organizations.
Black SEL, powered by the Dangers of the Mind Education Fund and SVA, has been at the forefront of advocating for social change in the South. With a mission to build a more equitable society through grassroots organizing and leadership development, the Southern Vision Alliance has successfully funded numerous projects and initiatives that empower communities, elevate voices, and inspire action. Their commitment to social and emotional learning reflects their belief that fostering emotional well-being is essential to creating resilient communities.
The summit will culminate with an evening gala on Thursday, September 26 and a Community Block Party on Friday, September 27 at Durham Central Park from 7:00pm – 11:00pm, to celebrate the achievements of individuals and organizations committed to advancing social and emotional learning within the Black community. This will be a night of inspiration, connection, and recognition of the incredible work being done across the region.
For more information about the Black SEL Summit, including registration details and a full agenda, please visit blacksel.org or contact communications@blacksel.org.
