In partnership with Word is Bond, Sneaker Week and the Portland Art Museum present an evening of shared storytelling between Word is Bond youth ambassadors and Portland-based designers. Inspired by In My Shoes walking tours, this Juneteenth program uses the shoe as a medium to amplify the creative voices and visions of Black men and their communities. Join us on June 20th for a retelling of two recent tours: Hidden Truths, a tour of the Woodlawn neighborhood led by Wiley College freshman, Jahad Hudson, and Steppin through the Ville, a tour of the New Columbia neighborhood led by Lincoln High School sophomore, Ayman Ali. Moderated by Word is Bond Founder and Executive Director Lakayana Yotoma Drury, this discussion sheds light on the connections and learnings shared between Jahad Hudson, Ayman Ali, Herbert Beauclere and guest designer Esaie Witherspoon.
Word is Bond is a Portland-born, Black-led nonprofit leadership incubator for young Black men sprouted in 2017. Word is Bond empowers young Black men ages 15-19 years as they transition from boys into young men and find themselves navigating a world that provides very few answers to unlocking their highest selves. We harness the soul force of Black boy joy and the power of narratives to create dynamic programming focused on identity development, storytelling, and global leadership.
Herbert Beauclere, CEO and Co-Founder of Sneaker Week PDX, can be best described as an experiential marketer and educational disruptor. Early in his career as a marketing director, Herbert led several global outreach programs for the top 3 footwear brands. He is a dynamic force and wields an impressive track record of innovation and impact with every project he takes on. With expertise in DEI program development, brand marketing, and creative consulting, he has demonstrated a commitment to fostering inclusive environments and pushing boundaries within the industry. Beauclere’s multidimensional approach makes him a true visionary, driving forward progress and redefining standards in his field.
This program is generously supported by the Portland Art Museum’s Contemporary Art Council. Program admissions is included with a Museum general admissions ticket purchase. We encourage early arrival, as seating is limited.