By KEILE CAMPBELL

Tribune Staff Reporter

kcampbell@tribunemedia.net

THE Morehouse College Alumni Association Bahamas Chapter is set to host the International Black Men’s Empowerment Summit at Margaritaville Beach Resort in the heart of New Providence.

The organisation’s goal will be breaking down stigmas.

The summit will gather black male leaders, educators, and innovators to discuss leadership, empowerment, and personal growth.

Fabian Fernander, a past president of the association and an organiser, highlighted the summit’s importance in addressing the unique challenges Bahamian men face. He pointed to concerns about single-parent households, where young boys may lack positive male role models.

“We realised that the only way to reduce that stigma is by showing them strong black role models,” he said, emphasising the need for visibility and guidance.

The summit will feature a distinguished lineup of speakers, including renowned scholar Dr Cornel West, Dr David Thomas, president of Morehouse College, and Dr Rashad Richey, a multimedia expert. These speakers, along with Bishop Neil Ellis and Carlos Palacious, will address key topics, from breaking stigmas to fostering leadership within black communities.

Recognising that financial barriers can hinder access to such opportunities, the organisers have partnered with the Ministry of Education to secure sponsorships for underprivileged young men.

Mr Fernander confirmed about 30 to 50 students from various schools have already been identified to attend the summit, ensuring that those who need it most can benefit. “We want to reach those boys who need this the most,” he asserted, underlining the event’s commitment to inclusivity.

Beyond the summit itself, Mr Fernander emphasised that this initiative marks the beginning of a long-term commitment. “We’re building an endowment fund to provide scholarships for Bahamian young men to attend Morehouse College,” he noted, aiming to offer three to four scholarships annually. This initiative supports education and fosters ongoing mentorship through partnerships with organisations like Toastmasters Club 1600, ensuring that young men receive the guidance they need on their journey to leadership.

With the summit poised to attract a diverse global audience, Mr Fernander expressed optimism about its potential impact on the Bahamian community. “This is a moment for Nassau to shine, for the world to see what we can offer — not just in terms of tourism, but in terms of talent, leadership, and empowerment,” he stated, framing the event as an opportunity for local talent to be showcased on a larger stage.

Dr Cornel West’s involvement is seen as a key addition to the summit’s mission of inspiring change. Mr Fernander shared how Dr West was a natural choice for the event, given his commitment to uplifting young black males. “For Cornel West, it became a no-brainer because he is very big on how we grow and impact our African Americans and young black males,” he said, highlighting Dr West’s dedication to education and advocacy.

Mr Fernander noted that Dr West’s presence is expected to generate significant interest, with attendees eager to hear his insights and experiences. “He knew the draw would be big; people would attend to hear his thoughts and how he could inspire them to do more,” Mr Fernander added.