IN ARIZONA:

We are

5.5%

of the population. Imagine the 100% impact we can make together in the events industry!

Who We Are

At Black Event Professionals of Arizona (BEPA), we are a committed community of Black event professionals dedicated to fostering growth, connection, and representation in Arizona’s events industry. As a nonprofit organization, we aim to create a supportive network that champions professional development, advocacy, and collaboration.

In a state with a smaller Black population, our mission is to amplify the voices, talents, and contributions of Black professionals in event planning, ensuring they are celebrated and valued. BEPA is passionate about building a thriving community where Black meeting professionals in Arizona can connect, grow, and leave a lasting impact.

Our mission

At Black Event Professionals of Arizona (BEPA), our mission is to empower Black professionals in Arizona’s events industry through education, mentorship, and community engagement. In Arizona, where Black residents comprise approximately 5.4% of the population (source: U.S. Census Bureau, Arizona QuickFacts, 2023), the need for representation and support is critical. We are dedicated to breaking down barriers by providing resources, scholarships, and networking opportunities to help our members thrive professionally and personally.

Nationally, the events industry generates over $1 trillion annually (source: Events Industry Council, Global Economic Significance of Business Events Report, 2020), yet Black professionals are significantly underrepresented in leadership roles. BEPA addresses this disparity locally by fostering diversity, inclusion, and representation within Arizona’s events industry.

Through our efforts, BEPA advocates for the recognition and celebration of Black professionals’ skills and contributions. By building a thriving and supportive network, we aim to empower the next generation of Black event leaders, ensuring their voices are heard and their impact is felt in Arizona and beyond.

Sources:

U.S. Census Bureau, Arizona QuickFacts (2023): https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/AZ

Events Industry Council, Global Economic Significance of Business Events Report (2020): https://insights.eventscouncil.org

Our vision

At Black Event Professionals of Arizona (BEPA), we envision building a self-sustaining and thriving community of Black professionals in the events industry, where we create our own opportunities, resources, and recognition. We believe that by investing in ourselves—through collaboration, mentorship, and collective growth—we can cultivate the next generation of leaders and innovators in event planning, without waiting for external validation or acceptance.

The Black community’s buying power has surpassed $1.8 trillion (source: Selig Center for Economic Growth, 2023), proving that we already possess the strength, influence, and capability to transform industries. By leveraging our collective expertise and uplifting one another, we can redefine what success looks like and tackle diversity, equity, and inclusion from within.

BEPA is committed to creating a network that fosters shared growth, professional development, and empowerment. Through our initiatives, we aim to build an industry where Black professionals don’t just participate but lead, set trends, and innovate. Together, we will create a future where our excellence drives the industry forward, proving that diversity isn’t an obligation—it’s a standard we set for ourselves and those we inspire.

Sources:

Selig Center for Economic Growth, "Multicultural Economy Report" (2023): https://www.terry.uga.edu/about/selig

APPLY FOR A BEPA BOARD OF DIRECTORS OR VOLUNTEER POSITON TODAY!

You didn’t come this far to stop!

Empower Your Events

Join a community dedicated to enhancing the success of black meeting professionals through networking and development.

Networking Opportunities

Connect with industry leaders and peers to expand your professional network and discover new opportunities.

Professional Development

Participate in workshops designed to enhance your skills and advance your career in event planning.

Who is considered a meeting professional?

A meeting professional is anyone who plays a pivotal role in the meeting and events industry, contributing their expertise to create successful gatherings. This broad category encompasses a diverse range of professionals, including real estate agents who secure venues, contractors who provide essential services, marketing agents who promote events, and many others. Each individual's skills and contributions enhance the overall experience, making them an integral part of the vibrant meeting industry landscape.

Get in Touch

Contact us to network, explore opportunities, and enhance your professional journey with BEPA.