ABOUT US

Our History and Mission : Bridging the Digital Divide

At the Black Broadband Summit, our journey is rooted in a commitment to equitable access to technology. Founded in 2020, we have a history of passionate advocacy and dedicated action in the Twin Cities. Our mission is clear: to bridge the digital divide and ensure that everyone, regardless of their background, has equal access to the opportunities of the digital age. We recognize that equitable access to the internet and technology is not only a matter of convenience but a fundamental right that empowers individuals, families, and communities to thrive in the modern world.

Objectives:

  • We provide a platform for open and honest dialogue where individuals from diverse backgrounds can share their experiences, challenges, and aspirations related to internet access and technology. By amplifying voices often left unheard, we foster empathy, understanding, and a collective commitment to action.

  • Knowledge is a powerful tool in dismantling barriers. We empower individuals with the knowledge of how the internet works, its significance in our daily lives, and the impact of digital inequity. Through workshops, presentations, and interactive sessions, we equip our community with the skills to navigate the digital landscape confidently.

  • The Black Broadband Summit is a hub for innovation. We inspire forward-thinking solutions by bringing together experts, thinkers, and community members. By fostering collaboration and sharing best practices, we catalyze the development of community-owned initiatives that address the digital divide head-on.

  • We advocate for policy changes and investments that prioritize internet equity. By engaging with lawmakers, organizations, and stakeholders, we work to influence systemic change that ensures every individual has affordable and reliable access to high-speed internet.

The Black Broadband Summit is more than just an event; it's a movement. Together, we can write the next chapter in our mission to close the digital divide and build a more connected and inclusive community.

Our Purpose and Goals

The Black Broadband Summit is a catalyst for change. Our purpose is clear: to address the digital divide and foster equity in internet access within the Twin Cities community. We believe that everyone, regardless of their background, deserves equal opportunities in the digital age. Our summit brings together passionate individuals, experts, and organizations to:

Discuss: We create a space for open dialogue, where we share experiences and insights related to internet access, technology, and digital inequity.

  • Educate: We empower individuals with knowledge about how the internet works and its impact on our lives, providing the tools to bridge the gap.

  • Innovate: We encourage innovative thinking and collaborative efforts to develop community-owned solutions that will close the digital divide.

Join us on November 13, 2024, as we take a significant step towards a more connected and inclusive future. Together, we can make a difference.

Over the years, we've convened thought leaders, engaged with communities, and championed the cause of internet equity. Our summit has become a platform for open dialogue, education, and innovation. Together, we explore solutions, share stories, and work towards a future where technology empowers, connects, and uplifts us all.

Committee Members

Chair Ini Augustine

Ini Augustine is a network engineer, social innovator, and serial entrepreneur. She is the CEO of Technologist Computers, a social enterprise that provides affordable laptops, tech, and tech support to underserved communities and small organizations.

Project Nandi, a program of Technologist Computers, provides technical support, laptops, food and broadband assistance to families of color impacted by covid19 & the George Floyd uprisings. Ini is also the founder of the Black Broadband summit, which aims to discuss shared experiences around lack of access, teach how the internet works, and discuss community led solutions to closing the digital divide in the Twin Cities.

Find out more about her projects at http://www.iniaugustine.com, https://www.technologist.computer/, https://www.projectnandi.com/ and

http://www.blackbroadbandsummit.com. Follow her on Instagram at @theblacktechguru.

Vice-Chair Tanika Fears

Tanika Fears is an author, a devoted mother of four, and an active member of various community organizations. As an author, Tanika has found immense joy in crafting captivating stories that transport readers to new worlds and offer unique perspectives.

When Tanika is not immersed in literature, her most important role is being a mother and grandmother. Being a mother has taught her the true meaning of unconditional love, patience, and the importance of nurturing young minds. Additionally, Tanika finds great fulfillment in giving back to the community through my involvement in various organizations. Whether it’s volunteering at local charities or participating in community projects, Tanika believes in making a positive impact and fostering a sense of togetherness. Tanika is passionate about creating, nurturing, and empowering both in her writing and in her personal life.

Treasurer Inie Clement

Inie Clement specializes in the development of affordable housing in poverty-stricken areas of Iowa. She utilized the housing stock. She works with properties from neighborhood threat to neighborhood to provide Iowans with affordable housing. Her areas of expertise include city, state, and housing grants. With a pharmaceutical lens, she has worked to create health equity for indigenous reservations of the Navajo and Tohono Nations in Arizona.