A Taste of Melanin Returns in February 2025

The Zay Project a community-focused nonprofit organization dedicated to celebrating and uplifting Black culture through impactful programs and initiatives announces the return of its 2nd annual A Taste of Melanin in 2025. A series of engaging educational and inspiring events and programs takes place throughout the entire month of February aligning with Black History Month.

A Taste of Melanin was launched in 2024 by Michael Jackson president of The Zay Project and founder of Mya Kai Creative Agency Phoenix’s only Black-owned full-service digital marketing agency dedicated to recreating brands’ images and building their future through its unique approach to design experiences that connect today’s brands to tomorrow’s culture. The event was designed to create inclusive spaces where people can learn about and acknowledge the profound influence of Black people on American culture.

“Our goal is to showcase the rich history art music and traditions of Black culture and to help people gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of its many facets. We believe that by sharing these stories we can create a more just and equitable world for all” said Jackson. “We were blown away by the response attendance and feedback after our inaugural series in 2024. We look forward to presenting an even bigger and better A Taste of Melanin in 2025 with the introduction of added events and workshops.”

The A Taste of Melanin 2025event schedule is as follows:

Silent Disco | 18+

Saturday Feb. 1

ASU Art Museum

Attendees will discover the transformative impact of Black culture on contemporary music and deepen their understanding of protest music.

Miles & Melanin | All ages

Saturday Feb. 8

Tempe Town Lake

The transformative power of movement and community takes center stage at Miles & Melanin an event in collaboration with BLK AZ RUN CLUB. This celebration focuses on embracing healthy lifestyles through energizing workouts engaging activities and more. Participants will explore the profound connection between fitness wellness and unity inspiring a journey toward holistic health and vitality.

Hip-Hop Karaoke | 21+

Saturday Feb. 8

Location to be announced see website for details

The profound influence of the spoken word and poetry on the evolution of modern day hip-hop will be unveiled during this event. Participants are encouraged to embark on a captivating exploration of the interconnectedness between these expressive art forms in shaping the vibrant landscape of hip-hop today.

Taste of Melanin Restaurant Week | All ages

Monday Feb. 10-Sunday Feb. 16

Phoenix and Tucson

For a full week participating Black-owned restaurants throughout Phoenix and Tucson will pull out all the stops to showcase their finest representations of traditional cultural cuisine.

Roller Bounce (Skate) | 18+

Saturday Feb. 15

Zoni Girls Roller Rink

Much more than a pastime in the Black community roller skating has long symbolized resistance and unity. Guests are invited to learn more about why roller skating runs deep in the Black community while they roll with pride skate with joy and celebrate the beauty of Black history.

This is Melanin | All ages

Saturday Feb. 22

The Archwood at Eastlake

The grand finale of A Taste of Melanin this unforgettable evening is filled with engaging games vibrant markets complimentary haircuts enlightening workshops and thought-provoking panel discussions focused on empowering the community in areas such as finance home buying and beyond. This event concludes with a music concert to remember!

Throughout the month A Taste of Melanin will also present a variety of weekly workshops each Thursday that are focused on STEAM finance workforce development and more. These workshops will take place at various venues around the valley. Schedule is as follows:

The Color of Art: A Deep Dive into Culture Collecting and Philanthropy

Thursday Feb. 6

Explore the dynamic intersection of art hip-hop sports and philanthropy in this compelling panel. “The Color of Art” delves into how influential figures—like hip-hop icons Jay-Z and Swizz Beatz as well as athletes—are reshaping the art world. Discover the ways they champion diverse voices build powerful collections and use their influence to drive cultural and philanthropic impact. This event promises to be an insightful conversation on the modern art collector’s role in a changing world where passion for art meets purpose and community impact.

Love in the Mix: Exploring Relationships Mental Health and Modern Culture

Thursday Feb. 13

Love and mental health are deeply connected especially in today’s fast-paced culturally diverse world. “Love in the Mix” is a dynamic workshop that dives into how modern culture shapes relationships and emotional well-being. Through interactive discussions and activities young people will explore the challenges and joys of love in the digital age learn strategies for maintaining mental health and discover how to build meaningful resilient connections. This is where self-care meets soul care!

Level Up: Unlocking Your Potential in the Modern Workforce

Thursday Feb. 20

In an ever-changing job market it’s essential to stay ahead of the curve. Designed for young professionals and those entering the workforce “Level Up” is an engaging workshop focusing on the skills needed to succeed in today’s competitive environment. From mastering effective communication and teamwork to exploring personal growth and resilience this event provides practical tools and insights to help participants excel in their careers. Whether launching their first job or leveling up this workshop empowers attendees to take charge of their professional journey with confidence.

Secure the Bag: Building Wealth and Investing in Your Future

Thursday Feb. 27

This workshop inspires attendees to take control of their financial journeys. “Secure the Bag” is an empowering workshop that dives into strategies for building wealth investing smartly and creating a legacy. Designed with young professionals and entrepreneurs in mind this event will break down the basics of money management demystify investing and help participants set actionable goals to grow their financial futures. Turn ambition into assets starting with the “Secure the Bag” workshop!

A Taste of Melanin is an educational program under the 501(c)(3) nonprofit The Zay Project. The organization is dedicated to promoting social justice through art culture and STEAM.

For more about A Taste of Melanin as well as final event locations times and details visit atasteofmelanin.org.

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