B.L.A.D.E. Initiative
Proudly Sponsored By
What is B.L.A.D.E.?
B.L.A.D.E. (Blerds Learning and Advancing Diversity in Education) is the educational cornerstone of Blerdcon, thoughtfully established to nurture connection, well-being, and collective growth within the Blerd (Black nerd) community. As a founding committee, we shape dynamic programming, guide content direction, and craft engaging experiences that encourage open, intentional dialogue. Each year at Blerdcon, we facilitate in-person interactions that bridge fans with a wide range of experts and changemakers. Our mission is to elevate black voices and narratives, fostering enriching conversations that challenge boundaries, spark curiosity, and build lasting community impact.
Our Motivation
B.L.A.D.E. was created to extend Blerdcon’s mission beyond black visibility and into something that reaches beyond the sanctuaries of the Blerd space. We recognized the importance of not just gathering, but sharing resources within the community and fueling tangible growth. We have built a platform for education that amplifies black educators, encourages interdisciplinary and alternative learning, and sparks meaningful, nuanced conversations that can be inaccessible to all. B.L.A.D.E. exists to deepen the impact of Blerdcon by cultivating spaces where knowledge is exchanged, perspectives are broadened, and the Blerd community is equipped with tools for both personal and collective advancement.
Through intentional programs, community initiatives and vital dialogue, B.L.A.D.E. ensures that the intellectual, emotional, and cultural needs of our community are not only acknowledged but championed.
Meet the Team
Javon Goard
Director of B.L.A.D.E. and Department Head
Blerdcon | Slam! | March 5-7, 2027
Yazmine Hawkins
B.L.A.D.E. Marketing Director
Blerdcon | Slam! | March 5-7, 2027
Dr. Bryant Best
Co-Founder
Blerdcon | Slam! | March 5-7, 2027
Veronica Christie
Co-Founder
Blerdcon | Slam! | March 5-7, 2027
Jay Deshong
Co-Founder
Blerdcon | Slam! | March 5-7, 2027
Alvin Hannon
Co-Founder
Blerdcon | Slam! | March 5-7, 2027
Rhys Hall
Co-Founder
Blerdcon | Slam! | March 5-7, 2027
Dr. Nick Smith
Co-Founder
Blerdcon | Slam! | March 5-7, 2027Our Mission
To empower the Blerd community by fostering education, engagement, and practical application across a wide range of topics and conversations. We aim to connect members with diverse experts and professionals, exposing them to new perspectives and ideas that transcend individual silos. Through intentional dialogue, we create a space where black thought and experiences are prioritized, driving meaningful discussions that inspire growth and understanding.
Our Outreach
As Blerdcon’s first educational initiative, we strive to connect with local educational institutions, such as but not limited to, public schools, private schools, and universities. B.L.A.D.E. openly invites schools within the local DMV to our programming at Blerdcon. Students can listen to and engage with our speakers as well as participate in the numerous activities at Blerdcon. We are seeking scholastic leaders (administrators, coaches, team leads) who have students that would benefit from participating in our one-of-kind events which integrate the structure of academics into the innovative creativity of geek and nerd cultures.
Please reach out to [email protected] for more information and to get involved.
