Global Black Economic Forum Centers Black Women’s Health Through Powerful ESSENCE Festival Conversation

At the intersection of culture, community, and advocacy, the Global Black Economic Forum brought one of the ESSENCE Festival of Culture 2026’s most impactful conversations to the forefront by creating space for Black women to speak openly about their health, healing, and empowerment.

During the festival, the Global Black Economic Forum (GBEF) presented “Sistas, Say It Louder: Reclaiming Power, Pleasure, and Protection in Black Women’s Health,” a candid discussion designed to challenge stigma, encourage self-advocacy, and elevate the importance of equitable healthcare for Black women.

The powerful panel featured GRAMMY-nominated singer and television personality Tamar Braxton, actress, author, and advocate Amiyah Scott, community leader LaDeia Joyce, and faith leader Dr. Karri Bryant. The conversation was thoughtfully moderated by Dr. Toyin Nwafor, who guided an honest dialogue centered on health, relationships, self-worth, and the importance of creating culturally responsive spaces for Black women.

Opening the discussion was Rashad Burgess, Vice President of Corporate Responsibility at Gilead Sciences, who emphasized the importance of advancing health equity and supporting meaningful conversations that empower communities through education, awareness, and access to care.

Sponsored by Gilead Sciences, the panel encouraged attendees to move beyond silence surrounding topics that have historically carried stigma. Rather than avoiding difficult conversations, panelists challenged participants to embrace transparency, advocate for themselves within healthcare systems, and prioritize both physical and emotional well-being.

Drawing from their personal experiences and professional expertise, the speakers explored the realities many Black women continue to face when navigating healthcare, including issues surrounding trust, representation, education, and access. The discussion reinforced that informed decisions begin with open dialogue and that community plays a vital role in breaking cycles of misinformation and fear.

More than a panel discussion, the event reflected the Global Black Economic Forum’s broader mission to address the social and economic challenges impacting Black communities through year-round programming focused on equity, opportunity, and collective advancement.

By hosting conversations alongside one of the nation’s largest celebrations of Black culture, GBEF continues to demonstrate that health equity is not separate from economic empowerment. The two are deeply connected.

The conversation also served as a reminder that wellness extends beyond medical appointments. It includes having trusted voices, supportive communities, and safe spaces where Black women can ask questions, share experiences, and advocate for their own health without judgment.

As ESSENCE Festival continues to celebrate Black excellence across entertainment, business, culture, and leadership, discussions like “Sistas, Say It Louder” remind us that one of the most powerful forms of empowerment begins with knowledge.

Because when Black women are informed, supported, and empowered to prioritize their health, entire communities become stronger