The Greater Manchester Black Tech Expo was an electrifying event that brought together tech innovators, entrepreneurs, and community leaders at the Millennium Windrush Centre in Moss Side. Over two action-packed days (January 31st – February 1st), the expo set out to create a UK version of a tech-powered Wakanda—a thriving, inclusive, and innovative Black tech ecosystem. Here are five key takeaways from this groundbreaking event.

1. A Celebration of Black Tech Excellence

The expo was a melting pot of talent, featuring freelancers, consultants, specialists, and professionals from all corners of the tech industry. Organised by The Moss Side & Hulme Community Development Trust, Switch Futures, Adanian Labs, and The Salam Project, the event showcased how Black-led initiatives are driving the future of technology in the UK.

Speakers like Mary Fashanu (The Maverick Group), Michael Livingstone (Dusti D), and Dr. Emilee Simmons (Dundee Business School) inspired attendees with their personal stories and industry insights.

2. Powerful Panel Discussions & Workshops

From funding opportunities for Black entrepreneurs to tech careers in Africa and the Caribbean, the discussions were practical, engaging, and forward-thinking. Attendees got valuable insights on breaking into the tech industry, overcoming barriers, and leveraging global opportunities.

One highlight was Dr. Samantha Lubanzu, who had the crowd singing “This girl/guy is on fire”, capturing the movement towards more diversity and representation in tech.

3. An Unstoppable Energy & Demand for More Events

The high-energy atmosphere was palpable, with networking sessions buzzing and people calling for the expo to expand to other UK cities. Michael Ekpechue, UK Director of Adanian Labs, revealed that people have already asked for the event to go nationwide—and he’s all in.

Organisers Otis Thomas (Switch Futures), Ismael Lea South (The Salam Project), and Leanna Cameron (Moss Side & Hulme Development Trust) confirmed that this will now be an annual event—with “Part 2” already in the works!

4. Tech Internships to Boost Young Talent

One major outcome was the launch of a work experience internship programme. Led by Switch Futures, Adanian Labs, The Salam Project, and Making Education a Priority (MEaP), this initiative will help young people gain real-world tech experience by working with community businesses, social enterprises, and charities.

As Ismael Lea South put it, this programme will “create better work experience and CV content for applying for future opportunities.”

5. Could This Be the Start of a UK ‘Tech Wakanda’?

The expo proved that the UK’s Black tech community is full of talent, ideas, and ambition. The question now is: how do we build on this momentum?

With growing partnerships, new opportunities, and an annual event now confirmed, the Greater Manchester Black Tech Expo might just be the catalyst for a long-overdue transformation in the UK tech industry.

The Greater Manchester Black Tech Expo was more than just an event—it was a movement. It provided a platform for learning, networking, and change, and showcased that Black-led tech innovation isn’t just thriving—it’s the future.