Experience the 40th Annual Conference

The future of the 100 Black Men network was on full display throughout the 40th Annual Conference as youth from across the country demonstrated the knowledge, confidence, leadership, and determination that define the next generation of changemakers.

From the opening day of conference through the final day of awards presentations, youth development and empowerment remained at the heart of the conference experience. Every competition, workshop, mentoring session, and recognition opportunity reflected the organization’s enduring commitment to preparing young people to lead in their schools, communities, careers, and beyond.

One of the conference’s most inspiring moments came during the Salute to Our Youth Luncheon, where nationally recognized author, activist, and journalist Kevin Powell challenged mentees to embrace their purpose, use their voices, and lead with courage. His message reinforced the mission that has guided the organization for four decades: investing in young people today to strengthen communities tomorrow.

Throughout the week, mentees showcased their talents and hard work in a series of highly competitive academic, STEM, financial literacy, investment, public speaking, career readiness, and leadership competitions. These experiences challenged participants to think critically, communicate effectively, solve real-world problems, and develop skills that will serve them long after conference concludes.

Celebrating Excellence

The following chapters and students earned top honors during this year’s national competitions:

African American History Challenge

Junior Division

• 1st Place — 100 Black Men of Savannah
• 2nd Place — 100 Black Men of Madison

Senior Division

• 1st Place — 100 Black Men of South Metro
• 2nd Place — 100 Black Men of Metro Baton Rouge

Inaugural Oratorical Competition

• 1st Place — Niles Haymer II, 100 Black Men of Metro Baton Rouge, Inc.
• 2nd Place — 100 Black Men of DeKalb
• 3rd Place — 100 Black Men of South Metro Atlanta

STEM Competition

• 1st Place — 100 Black Men of South Metro Atlanta
• 2nd Place — 100 Black Men of South Florida
• 3rd Place — 100 Black Men of Bay Area

Wells Fargo Jr. Investment Competition

• 1st Place — 100 Black Men of Long Beach
• 2nd Place — 100 Black Men of Los Angeles
• 3rd Place — 100 Black Men of Long Beach

Dollars and Sense Competition

• 1st Place — 100 Black Men of North Metro Baton Rouge
• 2nd Place — 100 Black Men of South Metro Atlanta
• 3rd Place — 100 Black Men of Bay Area

Collegiate 100 Career and Leadership Competition

• 1st Place — Fort Valley State University
• 2nd Place (Tie) — Texas Southern University and University of Houston
• 3rd Place — University of Nevada, Las Vegas
• 4th Place — Alabama State University

T-Shirt Design Contest

• Winner — 100 Black Men of South Florida, Inc.
• Designers — Charles Moore, Jr. and Zayd Sallahudin

Beyond the youth competitions, the conference celebrated excellence across the entire 100 Black Men of America, Inc. ecosystem. Members, volunteers, mentors, partners, chapters, and community leaders were recognized for their extraordinary contributions during the Salute to Our Youth Luncheon, State of the 100 Breakfast, Chairman’s Awards Luncheon, and the 100 Black Tie Gala and Awards Ceremony. These celebrations honored those whose dedication continues to strengthen the organization while inspiring the next generation to pursue excellence in every aspect of their lives.

As the organization concludes its 40th Annual Conference, one message rings louder than ever: the future is bright because the next generation is already preparing to lead. Through mentoring, education, leadership development, and meaningful opportunities to excel, the 100 Black Men of America continues to ensure that young people are not simply ready for tomorrow—they are helping shape it today.