Elevating Black Voices, Creating Opportunities, Leading Change

Founded in 2020, The State of Black Design was created in response to a world that demanded our attention and our action. It was born out of a need to create space—real, intentional space—for Black designers and those who support them.
  • We remain committed to:
    • Exploring the intersection of race and design practice
    • Introducing aspiring creatives to accomplished Black designers
    • Providing professional development and networking opportunities
    • Holding space for honest conversations about the challenges and possibilities in our field
Our conferences, both virtual and in-person, have drawn over 10,000 participants to date. The SoBD network has grown into a dynamic community of leading Black designers, educators and students. 

We invite you to be part of this community of visionaries, changemakers, and industry leaders as we challenge the status quo, foster innovation, and create tangible career opportunities for Black designers worldwide.

Looking Ahead

The State of Black Design aims to host symposiums and conferences on the campuses of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and in cities with high Black populations that are often overlooked by corporate recruiters and design conference organizers. We will focus on communities in cities such as St. Louis, Detroit, Cleveland, Nashville, Memphis, Prairie View, and beyond.

We invite you to join us, support us, and be present at our upcoming events as we continue building a more equitable, inclusive, and empowering design industry.

FOUNDER

Omari Souza is an accomplished Assistant Professor of Communication Design. With a diverse background and wealth of experience, he has made significant contributions to various industries and academic institutions. Omari's journey as a first-generation American began in the vibrant borough of the Bronx, New York. His cultural heritage traces back to his Jamaican roots, adding a unique perspective to his work and worldview. Before his academic career, Omari held pivotal roles at esteemed organizations such as VIBE magazine, Capital One, CBS Radio, and Case Western Reserve University. These experiences gave him invaluable insights into media, broadcasting, and higher education.

Omari co-hosts the highly acclaimed podcast, "The Design of Business | The Business of Design minisode." This engaging platform delves into the intricate workings of design within complex organizations, influencing decisions, products, and more. As a co-host, Omari brings together industry experts and designers from diverse fields to explore the impact of design on various aspects of business.

Recognizing the importance of representation and inclusivity in design, Omari is the visionary founder of the State of Black Design conference. This groundbreaking conference aims to celebrate, promote, and amplify the voices and contributions of Black designers, fostering a more equitable and diverse design industry.

In his research pursuits, Omari focuses on methods of decolonizing design practices and conducting ethical research. His exploration of these critical areas challenges existing norms and strives to create a more inclusive and responsible design landscape. With his multifaceted background, Omari Souza brings a wealth of knowledge, passion, and a commitment to positive change in communication design. His contributions and insights continue to shape the industry and inspire the next generation of designers.