Black and Brown Connect
Empowering Professionals of Color Together
Black and Brown Connect was developed with professionals and career-minded folks of color in mind, the Black & Brown Connect is a place to gain connections and build relationships right here in our community—ones you can use to build on your success in a psychologically safe space. This is a time like no other, particularly for Black and Brown folks.
Perhaps you are looking for ways to engage in a more culturally competent and relevant space with folks who can relate to many of your experiences in the workplace. Or, perhaps you are looking to unleash your inner entrepreneur and want to start or scale your business to the next level but could use a boost in the connections department. No matter your station, this mixer is a great place to dig in and create an impact for yourself and our communities.
Who We Are
What We Do
The Black & Brown Connect Mixer is more than a networking event, it’s a movement!
- Engaging and relevant conversations
- Personal and leadership development opportunities
- Insights from community leaders and mentors
- A welcoming, psychologically safe space to be seen, heard, and celebrated In today’s world, being the only person of color in the room can be isolating.
The B&B Connect Mixer offers an alternative culturally competent and affirming environment where your lived experiences are understood and valued. Whether you’re building a brand, leading a team, launching your next big idea, or simply looking to connect with like-minded professionals, this event is for you.
B&B Connect Committee
Bobby Boyd
Bobby Boyd is the true definition of a serial networker and entrepreneur, whose dynamic journey reflects a deep commitment to impact, inclusion, and innovation. As a proud first-generation college graduate, Bobby has carved a remarkable path across multiple industries—from celebrity songwriting and marketing to commercial real estate and government leadership.
Clarence Lloyd
Clarence Lloyd is a Vice President with Southwest Michigan First and serves as the Director of the Chamber of Commerce, covering all greater Kalamazoo County. His business and community leadership spans nearly three decades where he has excelled in repairing under performing teams, building new ones, and providing servant leadership for companies ranging from five employees to Fortune 50.
Gabriel Giron
Gabriel Giron is a multi-award winning, national keynote speaker and poet who has dedicated his life to helping others heal themselves through the art of writing, conscious communication, wellness techniques and mindfulness. Gabriel is the Co-Founder and Executive Director of Speak It Forward, Inc a non-profit dedicated to helping underserved youth.
Katherine Kemp
Katherine Kemp is a versatile business leader who possesses deep experience across multiple key economic sectors—from leading the growth of iconic brands for Fortune 500 companies, to being a highly accomplished entrepreneur, to serving as a senior management professional in the nonprofit world.
Kevin Crittenden
Kevin Crittenden is a devoted husband to Nicole and a proud father in a beautifully blended family of five. With over 25 years of experience in business-to-business sales, he has worked across multiple industries including pharmaceuticals, manufacturing—particularly automotive—municipalities, and nonprofits.
Upcoming Events
Kalamazoo, MI 49006 United States
Join us for an evening dedicated to networking and professional growth. Connect with industry leaders and peers who share your passion for career advancement. Don’t miss this chance to expand […]
Kalamazoo, MI 49006 United States
Engage in meaningful conversations at our mentorship meetup. Whether you’re seeking advice or looking to give back, this event fosters growth and partnership among like-minded individuals.
Past Event Highlights
