Los Angeles, CA — In its third year, BLACKWEEK debuted in Los Angeles, marking a new chapter for the economic forum and cultural festival.

From October 7-9, entrepreneurs, creatives, and economic leaders gathered for discussions surrounding culture’s economic power and its role in shaping opportunity.

This year’s theme, How To Own It In America, focused on ownership, influence, and long-term impact. Speakers included singer and actor Tyrese Gibson, Blacc Sam of The Marathon, singer/songwriter Ravyn Lenae, and others.

Gibson’s appearance, a panel titled “From Watts to What’s Next” centered his personal journey from growing up in Watts, CA to establishing a music and acting career in Hollywood.

His message was straightforward: the path to economic success and international stardom isn’t always linear.

“All of my losses have created a great sense of urgency,” Gibson said in response to moderator Jason Brown during a discussion about navigating grief and loss during his career.

“You’ve got to hustle, you’ve got to network, you have to be unapologetic about getting it,” he continued.

Later, Blacc Sam, Bino Rideaux, and Samantha Smithappeared together during a panel discussion tied tothe release of Prolific, the posthumous album by Nipsey Hussle.

Sam discussed the curation of the album as well as the incredible responsibility in continuing his late brother’s legacy.

Samantha Smith, Hussle’s sister, reflected on lyrics from Hussle that reminded her of her brother’s honest character and her gratitude for the impact he left.

The conference had over 50 panels, with each sharing their own unique take on ownership in America.

In a session titled “Attention Was Never the Finish Line”, model Salem Mitchell, influencer Toni Bravo, and RareBeauty’s Tyra Booker touched on the importance of maintaining integrity while traversing an evolving beauty industry.

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Article Written By: Julissa Wilson, Inland Valley News