The Soko Mrkt Stage at the 2024 Essence Festival Of Culture is back with more entrepreneurs and retail shops to experience. Whether you are looking to learn about taking your business to the next level, growing your numbers, or figuring out where to start, this is the destination for you. The stage will feature panel discussions delving into topics spanning from developing a personal brand to building community. There will also be an opportunity to shop and support more Black-owned brands.
This interactive experience will commence on Friday, July 5, with a “Real Talk: The Art Of Being You” panel moderated by Master Manifestation artist Melissa Mitchell. The panel will touch on how to transform your personal brand into a successful venture or empire if you desire. The discussion will also reference influential authors, designers, and influencers to guide you in achieving your goals, monetizing them, and carving your own path.
Day two of Soko Market will feature a panel discussing the challenges faced by entrepreneurs who are also mothers. This panel, titled “Empowering Mompreneurs: Navigating Entrepreneurship While Nurturing Family Bonds,” will be moderated by Arielle Brown, who is an Aveeno X Essence grant winner. Leading entrepreneurs Saria Hawkins-Banda, Lakiesha Turner, and LaToya Stirrup will share valuable tips and strategies for mothers to succeed in both their professional and family roles.
On day three, there will be a panel for entrepreneurs looking to scale their business online. The panel, “Empowered Commerce: Elevating Black-Owned Brands Online with Amazon’s Black Business Accelerator,” will provide insights into how Black-owned businesses are building successful online presences. Attendees will discover strategies and resources to help grow their businesses.
Additional panels on mentorship, inclusive fashion, networking tips, and turning your passion into profit will be available for those who want to gain more knowledge in entrepreneurship. Throughout the weekend, successful business owners like Irene Bekoe of That Good Good Shea, Alexandria Alli of F&W Style, and Selina Zinchuk of S-Secret will be speaking at these informative sessions.
There will also be a daily live shopping segment called “Shop ESSENCE Live” in partnership with New Voices. This segment will feature products available at SOKO MRKT, Beautycon and Food & Wine Festival. Viewers will have the chance to get their questions answered and shop live during the stream.
The ESSENCE Festival of Culture™ presented by Coca-Cola® will take place July 4-7. For more information and updates on the festival, visit our website and follow us on social media @ESSENCEFest on X, Facebook, and Instagram.
