The Fearless Global Initiative (FGI), founded by entrepreneur, philanthropist, and CEO & Founding Partner of the Fearless Fund, HM Queen Wa Arian Simone, made its historic debut during the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York. The event, held on September 22, 2025, at the Glasshouse Chelsea, gathered over 150 influential global leaders, cultural icons, policymakers, and changemakers under the theme “Designing the Future of Global Black Power.”
The gathering aimed to catalyze bold conversations and strategic collaborations focused on building a 100-year blueprint for economic inclusion and empowerment within Black communities worldwide. Queen Wa Arian Simone emphasized the importance of transitioning dialogue into tangible action: “FGI is where the follow-through finally happens. For too long, we’ve discussed equity without building the systems to sustain it. Today marks the beginning of shaping the next century of global Black economic power.”
The event featured notable speakers such as CNN anchor Abby Phillips, U.S. Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett, civil rights attorney Ben Crump, UNHCR ambassador Kat Graham, and Liberian Foreign Minister Sara Beysolow Nyanti, among others. Key sessions included “What Can I Do for You? What Can You Do for Me?”, which explored the relationship between Africa and Black America, and “The 100-Year Plan,” a collaborative effort to design a long-term strategy for economic, cultural, and political transformation.
A fireside chat with Kat Graham highlighted storytelling’s role in fostering economic growth, complemented by a cultural activation featuring Yoruba art by Laolu Senbanjo, symbolizing freedom and empowerment.
FGI positions itself as a continuation of the unfinished work begun during the civil rights movement, echoing Malcolm X’s call to see civil rights as human rights. With its launch, the initiative commits to accelerating progress toward global Black economic empowerment.
To stay connected and be part of this global movement for economic inclusion, join the mailing list at https://fearlessfreedom.com and follow the conversation at @fearlessfreedommedia.
