The Mile High City will shine a spotlight on Black excellence, leadership and legacy during the inaugural B.E.S.T. Black-out Experience, a four-day event held from June 5–8, 2025. 

Organized by the Black Economic Success Trust (B.E.S.T.), this community-driven celebration will unite Black professionals, entrepreneurs, creatives and community leaders across Colorado, under the theme “Collaborate. Elevate. Celebrate: A Vision for Black Success.” 

“This Black-out is not a time to step back, but a time to come forward – BOLDLY,” the organization announced, calling for business and community leaders to stand together in a strategic alliance supporting advancement and sustainability. 

“The Black-out Experience is about legacy, leadership and lifting as we climb,” says Carla Ladd,  B.E.S.T. Executive Director. “It’s an invitation for our community to come together with purpose, power and joy.”

A Weekend of Empowerment and Celebration

Setting the tone for the weekend, the festivities commence on Thursday, June 5, with the “Drive & Thrive” Charity Golf Tournament at CommonGround Golf Course, held in collaboration with Colorado Beautillion-Cotillion, Inc. 

On Friday, June 6, B.E.S.T. will host its signature “Success Summit & Expo” at the Sheraton Denver Downtown Hotel. Held in collaboration with Aya Foundation and Metro DEEP, the full-day summit will feature networking opportunities, enlightening sessions and a Legacy Luncheon. 

Emceed by 9News Reporter, Janelle Finch, the luncheon will honor Bianka Emerson, president of Colorado Black Women for Political Action (CBWPA), and former Denver NAACP President, Sondra Young. Both community leaders will receiveWiLMA Awards, named in honor of Denver’s former First Lady, The Honorable Wilma J. Webb. 

Additionally, Ed Dwight, a renowned sculptor and the first Black astronaut candidate for NASA, will receive the Community F.I.R.S.T. Award. 

Special guest Wanda James, the first Black woman in the United States to own a cannabis dispensary and the first Black woman elected to the University of Colorado (CU) Board of Regents in over four decades, will participate in a fireside chat. Other notable speakers include Simone Ross, CEO of the Colorado Women’s Chamber of Commerce and executive director of the Colorado Women’s Chamber Foundation, and Benny Samuels, CEO of AYA Foundation.

The “Back in the Day Soirée” on Saturday, June 7, will feature an elegant evening celebrating culture and achievement within the Black community. Entertainment will be provided by Duane Taylor Entertainment.

The weekend concludes on Sunday, June 8, with the “Biz Ladies Brunch,” a gathering held in collaboration with CBWPA to honor impactful community members and foster future connections. 

Building Economic Strength and Connectivity

B.E.S.T., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, focuses on convening Black leaders, businesses and organizations to build economic strength and connectivity. Dozens of partners – including nonprofit leaders, funders and community-based organizations are working together to ensure that the first Black-out Experience is a reflection of the community’s capacity for innovation and advocacy. 

From emerging entrepreneurs to legacy leaders, this summit is designed to be a catalyst for intergenerational collaboration and sustainable, Black-led impact.

Registration is Now Open

Registration for the B.E.S.T. Black-out Experience is open at www.bestsuccesssummit.org/2025-agenda, using Discount Code: DUS2025.  Attendees are encouraged to follow @BlackOutDenver on all platforms for updates and information.

Editor’s note: To learn more about B.E.S.T., visit For more information, visit www.bestsuccesssummit.org.