This isn’t just a panel — it’s a vibe. And a declaration.
Join us for an evening of real talk, cocktails, culture, and connection at SETTING THE STANDARD, the official panel discussion mixer kicking off the 7th annual LOCnificent Fest. Now in its second year, this signature event brings together dynamic speakers, creative leaders, and a curated crowd of natural hair lovers, beauty professionals, and cultural changemakers.
In 2025, with DEI on the defensive and Black narratives under pressure, SETTING THE STANDARD is more than an event—it’s an act of cultural preservation. Under this year’s theme — We Are the Blueprint — we’ll unpack what it means to shape, protect, and elevate Black culture on our own terms. From hair and heritage to business, branding, and beyond, this conversation will explore the power of setting our own standards — and building new ones rooted in legacy and liberation.
What to Expect:
✨ Main Panel: We Are the Standard: Shaping Culture on Our Terms — a bold discussion with visionaries.
✨ Fireside Chats:
> "My Crown, My Career” — Authentic identity in professional spaces
> “The Culture is the Brand” — Building culturally-rooted brands under scrutiny
✨ Plus: Music, networking, signature cocktails, and interavtive experiences that keep culture in motion.
Protect and elevate our legacy—this isn’t just an evening. It’s our standard.