Portland to host second African American Footwear Forum

03/07/2019
The African American Footwear Forum (AAFF), which is co-organised by the Footwear Distributors and Retailers of America and the Pensole Footwear Design Academy, will take place for the second time on August 10 in Portland. 

The inaugural edition of the event was held in Washington DC in mid-February. It aims to serve as a forum to discuss issues and opportunities for African Americans in the global footwear industry.

"The is a celebration of people of colour who have impacted the footwear industry in significant ways in many different areas," said D’Wayne Edwards, founder of Pensole. “But we're also amplifying a conversation about diversity in the industry while shining a light on career paths and opportunities that need to be available to the consumers of the products the industry creates."

The one-day event will feature brands, industry professionals, entrepreneurs and influencers. The keynote address will be delivered by DJ, author and filmmaker Bobbito Garcia. There will also be industry panels and expert talks. 

In addition, the Portland Art Museum, the venue for this edition, will host an installation that highlights African American designers who have contributed to the sneaker industry.