Graduate student Natalie Nedd recently attended the second annual Black Sports Symposium in Atlanta, Ga., from May 29 to June 1. Hosted in the Mercedes-Benz Stadium, the convention gathered numerous organizations within the sports sector to motivate students from various HBCUs to consider careers in the sports industry. The conference featured several notable sports industry professionals who have made significant contributions to the space, including Cari Champion, a broadcast journalist and TV personality; Baron Davis, a former professional basketball player; and others.
Nedd, a graduate student pursuing a Master’s degree in business administration at Talladega College, and her team were invited to attend the conference after winning second place in the Battle of the Brains competition, an experiential diversity recruiting showcase of top Black talent from colleges and universities nationwide. Although she wasn’t exactly sure what to expect, she decided to leverage the platform to connect with as many peop
le as possible.
“This experience was unbelievable, but I didn’t know what exactly I was signing myself up for. I came to understand the power of creating a place where professionals can
come and share their experiences with college students and even their peers. It was about putting yourself out there and connecting to people who might have the same background as you,” Nedd said.
The Georgetown, Guyana native is a lifelong athlete who plays soccer for the Talladega College Tornado Soccer Team. She feels that sports is a universal language that transcends borders and cultures and brings people together with a shared passion. Her interest in the sports industry derives from the exhilarating moments of victory that follow as a result of the lessons learned in teamwork and perseverance from her own personal experiences as a scholar-athlete.
“I have been involved in sports since I was a child, and it has always been a part of me. I understand that sports can be a gateway of opportunities for many people who are seeking to better their lives and families,” she said.
The event, sponsored by the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation, is known for its focus on empowering Black athletes and fostering diversity in sports. It was a significant opportunity for Natalie and a testament to her dedication on and off the field. She encourages students interested in the sports sector to consider attending next year.
“I would recommend this event to other students interested in the sports industry because there are not a lot of opportunities where you are in the same room with Presidents, Vice Presidents, Chiefs, or someone offering an internship you are interested in getting. The networking opportunity is huge, even if it’s just connecting with others right now. You never know in 2-5 years, these are people you might cross paths with again.”
Natalie’s attendance at the Black Sports Symposium is a moment of pride for Talladega College and underscores its commitment to excellence, diversity, and the holistic development of its students. This prestigious opportunity marks a significant milestone in Natalie’s career and serves as a reminder of the power of education, sports, and community in shaping the leaders of tomorrow.
To learn more about the Black Sports Symposium, visit blacksportsbiz.com for more information.
