Black Educated Lesbians (BEL), a global nonprofit organization founded by LaJoya Johnson in 2014, is proud to announce the return of the Black Queer Women’s Conference, taking place Thursday, September 18 through Saturday, September 20, 2025, in Forest Park, Georgia (Metro Atlanta).
This dynamic three-day experience is dedicated to uplifting, empowering, and uniting Black queer women through a range of interactive workshops, wellness activations, leadership development sessions, and intentional community-building initiatives. Following a successful inaugural event, this year’s conference is anticipated to draw an even larger crowd with expanded programming and powerful moments of connection.
The theme of the 2025 conference centers on joy, resilience, and liberation, reflecting BEL’s ongoing commitment to creating sacred spaces where Black queer women can be their full selves—loved, affirmed, and empowered.
Workshops & Panels Centered on the Lives of Black Queer Women:
- Healing Out Loud – Prioritizing mental health in the Black queer experience
- Real Love, Real Talk – Navigating relationships with honesty, boundaries, and care
- Our Bodies, Our Power – Advocating for reproductive rights and body autonomy
- Masculine Lesbians: Identity & Advocacy – Exploring visibility, leadership, and workplace dynamics
- Secure the Bag & the Legacy – Financial literacy, wealth-building, and legacy planning
In addition to its enriching educational content, the conference will feature a welcome reception, a live auction benefiting the BEL Scholarship Fund, professional headshot opportunities, a community vendor fair, and a Family Fun Day to close out the weekend in celebration and fellowship.
“This conference is more than just an event—it’s a movement,” says LaJoya Johnson, founder of Black Educated Lesbians. “We’re creating a sacred space where Black queer women can rest, rise, and reclaim our power—together.”
Sponsorship and Partnership Opportunities
BEL invites mission-aligned brands, organizations, and community partners to support this groundbreaking event. Sponsorship benefits include on-site and digital visibility, vendor access, and recognition throughout the weekend. Proceeds will help fund scholarships, wellness programming, and showcase opportunities for small Black queer women-owned businesses. SwagHer Magazine is proud to be the official media sponsor for this event.
To explore sponsorship packages or partnership opportunities, contact admin@blackeducatedlesbians.com or visit:
👉🏾 https://blackeducatedlesbians.com/black-queer-womens-event
About Black Educated Lesbians (BEL)
What began as a single Facebook group has grown into a global nonprofit with over 67 online communities and 20 local chapters worldwide. BEL’s work is rooted in five core initiatives:
- SoulRoot Collective – Cultural sustainability and spiritual grounding
- BEL Wealth & Legacy – Economic empowerment and financial education
- Be Strong & Healthy – Physical health and wellness promotion
- Mind, Body & Soul – Mental health awareness and healing support
- EmpowerHER – Youth leadership development for Black queer youth ages 16–21
The 2025 Black Queer Women’s Conference is not just an event—it’s a celebration of identity, an investment in community, and a call to action for the healing and growth of Black queer women everywhere.
