Controlling the Narrative: Empowerment Through Storytelling

In an era where the digital landscape continuously evolves, and with recent adaptations in NIL laws significantly impacting personal branding opportunities, "Controlling the Narrative" emerges as a critical platform for African American creatives and media entrepreneurs. Scheduled on February 20, 2025, in New York City, this event spearheaded by the BYP Network New York Chapter, seeks to foster an environment of empowerment, learning, and networking for Black artists, storytellers, and media professionals.

"Controlling the Narrative" is designed to delve into the complexities of artistic and personal representation in today's digital age. It aims to provide insights, strategies, and vibrant discussions on how African American creatives can navigate the landscape to maintain sovereignty over their work and image. With the recent changes to NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) laws redefining the contours of personal branding, the event will explore the ramifications for Black artists and media creators striving for autonomy and opportunities to monetize their personal brands.

Why Attend?

• Discover actionable strategies to leverage NIL laws for personal and professional branding.
• Engage with a community of like-minded creatives, entrepreneurs, and influencers.
• Learn from the firsthand experiences and insights of trailblazers in media and the arts.
• Network with industry professionals committed to supporting and advancing Black narratives in the digital space.

Target Audience: Artists, storytellers, media entrepreneurs, influencers, activists, and anyone at the intersection of creativity and digital media looking to control their narrative.

Zhailon Levingston - Storyteller, Director, and Activist.

ZHAILON LEVINGSTON (Director) is a Louisiana-raised storyteller and Director. He is a board member for the Broadway Advocacy Coalition, which received an honorary Tony Award in 2021. Zhailon is also the Artistic Director of the Inheritance Theatre Project. Select credits include: TINA: THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL (Broadway), HADESTOWN (Korea), THE WIZ (Cincinnati Children’s Theatre), CHICKEN AND BISCUITS (Broadway), PATIENCE (Second Stage), LITTLE MISS PERFECT (Goodspeed), CATS: THE JELLICLE BALL (Perelman Performing Arts Center).

Kaya Nova - Musician | Writer | Founder of GROWN Media

Kaya Nova is a musician, writer, and founder of GROWN Media, a digital community and magazine curated for Gen Z to millennial Black women. A graduate of Spelman College and Berklee College of Music, Kaya's career as a creative entrepreneur and digital strategist led to her becoming a rising voice on social media, with her work amplified by The New York Times, Teen Vogue, ESSENCE, and celebrities like India.Arie, Chrissy Teigen, and New York Times Best Selling Author Mel Robbins. Through GROWN, Kaya reaches over half a million social accounts each month, covering topics such as beauty, wellness, career growth, and entertainment. The platform has partnered with brands like Red Bull, T.J. Maxx/Marshalls, and Hulu’s Onyx Collective, and is a member of the Black Owned Media Equity & Sustainability Institute and EBONY Media Group’s EBONY Alliance.

Ciara Ingram; Filmmaker | Content Strategist

Ciara Ingram is a part-time independent filmmaker and full-time digital producer & social media strategist based in NYC with deep roots in Arkansas and Tennessee. Her diverse background has given her a unique perspective that shapes her work. Although she began her journey as a basketball player in both the amateur and collegiate arenas, she is making a significant mark in the film and digital landscape.

Host or Publisher Robert L. Newman III