New Savannah summit turns Black culture into conversation and opportunity

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - Airbnb has been named the official destination partner for Savannah’s inaugural Tourism in the Black: Culture & Currency Summit.

Discover Black Savannah will host the summit Sept. 4 as part of Soul & Flavor Weekend, a two-day celebration of Black culture, cuisine, entrepreneurship and tourism.

The event will bring together tourism leaders, entrepreneurs, hospitality professionals, policymakers, content creators, cultural organizations and community stakeholders. Discussions will focus on how Black culture influences tourism, strengthens communities and creates sustainable economic opportunities.

As the summit’s official destination partner, Airbnb will present the Airbnb Culture & Community Exchange. The forum will explore authentic travel experiences, responsible tourism, community partnerships and ways tourism can support inclusive economic growth.

“We are honored to welcome Airbnb as our Official Destination Partner,” said Katina Wheeler, co-founder and CEO of Discover Black Savannah. “Together, we are creating a platform that celebrates culture while exploring innovative ways tourism can strengthen communities, support entrepreneurs and create lasting economic impact.”

Scheduled sessions include:

• Tourism in the Black: Culture as Currency
• The Airbnb Culture & Community Exchange
• The Influence Exchange
• Destination AI: The Future of Tourism
• Funding the Vision
• Legacy Conversation: Preserving Culture While Creating Commerce

Organizers said attendees will receive practical strategies, funding resources and technology insights to help transform cultural assets into sustainable economic opportunities.

The Tourism in the Black summit will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, Sept. 4. Soul & Flavor Weekend will continue Saturday, Sept. 5, with the Soul & Flavor Food Truck Fest at Eastern Wharf.

The summit is free, but advance registration is required. For more information or to register click here.