NABJ 2026: Atlanta Hosts a Homecoming for Black Journalism
The National Association of Black Journalists brought its convention home to Atlanta this year, the first time since 2005, and the energy across the Atlanta Marriott Marquis from August 12-16 made it clear this wasn't just another industry gathering. Fresh off NABJ's 50th anniversary celebration, this year's theme, "Our Revolution: Truth, Power, and Black Journalism," set the tone for a week that blended legacy, advocacy, and challenging conversations about where the industry and independent creators within it go from here.
A Record-Breaking Return
NABJ President Errin Haines, an Atlanta native, hosted the convention in her hometown, and the city embraced the opportunity. Between the Opening Reception hosted by the Atlanta Association of Black Journalists, the Scholarship Jam, the Hall of Fame Induction & Luncheon, the Salute to Excellence Awards Gala, an exclusive first look at "Children of Blood and Bone," and the closing Gospel Brunch on Sunday, the week was built around honoring the organization's history while pushing toward its future. Early buzz pointed to the event being one of the largest turnouts in NABJ's history, backed by sponsors including Regions Bank and Kaiser Permanente.
Own the Platform: Thriving as an Independent Journalist in the Creator Economy
The highlight of my week was joining the NABJ Arts & Entertainment Task Force panel, "Own the Platform: Thriving as an Independent Journalist in the Creator Economy," on Thursday, August 13. I sat alongside Anita Bennett (Owner/Publisher, Urban Hollywood 411), Venton Blandin (TV News Manager, NABJ Arts & Entertainment Task Force), and Clayton Gutzmore (Freelance Writer) for a conversation that felt overdue: how journalists build sustainable, independent media brands outside traditional newsroom structures. The panelist gave great insight on the freedom and challenges that one faces being one's own boss.
Beyond the Bars: The Power, Influence, and Responsibility of Hip-Hop Journalism
Panelist Kathia Woods, AllHipHop's founder Chuck Creekmur, and moderator Kalia Richardson discussed the role of hip-hop journalists in paving the way for many of today's prominent Black journalists and culture critics. I also spoke about how many are using hip-hop to spread misinformation and cash in on what is now a multimillion-dollar business.
Career Fair and What's Next
Beyond the panel, I spent time connecting with NBC Academy. The Academy provided great tools from seasoned professionals to help pivot and upgrade careers. The career fair was a little smaller than it used to be, mirroring the current climate of today’s media landscape. However, many were receptive to seasoned journalists who are already doing the work in the field, adding expertise to their newsrooms that younger journalists entering the field can’t provide.
The Bigger Picture
NABJ26 landed at a moment when independent Black media voices platforms like Cup of Soul Show included are increasingly filling gaps that legacy newsrooms leave open. Atlanta, as "the Hollywood of the South" and a hub for Black entertainment and culture, was a fitting backdrop for that conversation. Being able to represent Cup of Soul Show on a national stage, in the city where so much of Black entertainment is shaped, felt like exactly the kind of full-circle moment this platform was built for.