The Black Footwear Forum: A Celebration of CommUNITY in Detroit's Design Scene

The highly anticipated seventh annual Black Footwear Forum (BFF) is set to take place in Detroit from September 10 to 13, 2026. This year's event promises to be a dynamic gathering of more than 1,000 industry professionals, creatives, and aspiring students, all united under the theme of "Rooted in commUNITY." Hosted at the Pensole Lewis College of Business and Design, better known as PLC Detroit, this forum highlights the intersection of fashion, culture, and community engagement in the footwear industry.

BFF is specially designed to celebrate the rich contributions of Black and Brown individuals to the creative field. Dr. D'Wayne Edwards, the college's president, elaborates on the significance of this year's theme, emphasizing the importance of creating spaces where underrepresented voices can flourish. The event aims not only to inform attendees but also to inspire the next generation of leaders in the footwear industry.

Key Highlights of the Event

The forum will feature an impressive lineup of speakers and panelists, including influential figures from various sectors such as Colin Kaepernick, renowned for his social activism and contributions on and off the football field, and Jemele Hill, an esteemed journalist and cultural commentator. Other notable speakers will encompass industry experts, designers, and executive leaders who will share their insights during masterclasses and discussions. Jacques Slade, a prominent host and content creator, will lead the sessions that explore essential topics ranging from diversity in the creative process to current innovations in retail and footwear.

One of the most exciting components of the forum is the celebration of BLACKLIGHTS Homecoming on September 11. This special event is set to honor the achievements of PLC Detroit alumni and current students, offering them a platform to reconnect and celebrate their legacy. Participants can look forward to various engaging activities, including alumni roll calls, a ceremonial class handoff, and an immersive fashion runway experience highlighted by the phrase, "The Sole Walk."

Additionally, attendees can engage with the cultural history of Idlewild, Michigan, famously known as Black Eden, through the Merrell-sponsored program, Look Again at MI Black Eden. This two-day activation encourages participants to explore and reflect on the historical significance and cultural narratives of this region, tying together community storytelling and awareness.

Day-by-Day Programming

The forum's schedule is packed with numerous events designed to facilitate networking, education, and community building. On Saturday, September 12, attendees can look forward to a one-on-one conversation between legendary hip-hop artist DMC and Dr. D'Wayne Edwards that delves into DMC’s profound impact on the music and fashion industries. Later, Colin Kaepernick will join Jemele Hill for a poignant discussion surrounding his memoir, "The Perilous Fight," offering valuable insights into his journey and the importance of activism in sports.

The forum will conclude on Sunday, September 13, with the highly anticipated Sisters in Sole Brunch, featuring networking opportunities and the Rising Star Awards. Here, emerging talents will be recognized for their achievements, while attendees engage in meaningful dialogue about building lasting wealth in their careers. The BRO Give Your Permission Workshop led by Dr. George James aims to inspire participants towards self-care and purposeful living, reinforcing the critical interplay between personal well-being and professional success.

A Platform for Progress

As the Black Footwear Forum continues to grow into a national platform, it actively seeks to amplify Black voices within the footwear industry and create stronger connections among emerging talents and industry leaders. Matt Priest, CEO of the Footwear Distributors and Retailers of America, emphasizes the importance of this approach, stating that BFF fosters relationships that ultimately benefit the entire industry. By continually pushing the conversation forward, the forum plays a crucial role in shaping the future landscape of footwear and creative industries.

Don't miss your chance to be part of this inspiring event! For more information, visit www.blackfootwearforum.com to register for attending the forum or learn more about the daily schedule and featured speakers.

Join the conversation and witness how the Black Footwear Forum cultivates a community rooted in creativity and collaboration.