Revolt World 2024: A Celebration of Culture, Innovation, and Empowerment in Atlanta

ATLANTA — Revolt World made its triumphant return to Atlanta this past weekend, uniting prominent voices in Black entertainment, entrepreneurship, and culture.

The event, which took place from September 20 to 22 at Pullman Yards, marked a significant milestone for Revolt Media, now an employee-owned company since June 2024. Organizers reported that this year’s festival attracted thousands of attendees.

“This year is special because it’s our first event as an employee-owned company,”

said Detavio Samuels, CEO of Revolt Media, in an interview.

“Transitioning to employee ownership in June is a key milestone for us.”

Revolt World focused on mental health, entrepreneurship, and education, aiming to address gaps in historically underserved Black communities.

“We’re channeling our ‘Black Panther energy,’” Samuels said. “Just like the Panthers filled in where society neglected Black people, Revolt is stepping in to fill those gaps.”

Celebrating Black Creators and Talent

The event featured panels, workshops, and performances designed to empower attendees and showcase Black excellence. The lineup included influential figures from the music, sports, politics, and fashion sectors.

“I couldn’t be more excited,” Samuels said. “The talent lineup is phenomenal, featuring the biggest tastemakers, changemakers, leaders, educators, and musicians from diverse backgrounds.”

Revolt World also included live tapings of popular shows like “Drink Champs” and “Big Facts,” alongside day parties and festival-style performances.

A Focus on Black Entrepreneurship

A central theme of the weekend was Black entrepreneurship, which Samuels believes is essential for Black liberation. He cited a McKinsey & Co. report suggesting it could take 300 years for Black Americans to achieve economic parity with their white counterparts.

“We see entrepreneurship as a crucial path for Black liberation,” Samuels stated. “We fund entrepreneurs without requiring any equity in return.”

Samuels emphasized Revolt’s commitment to supporting Black entrepreneurs through its pitch competition and ecosystem, stressing the importance of community backing for these businesses.

“The only way our Black entrepreneurs will thrive is if we unite as a community to support them,” he said.

A Vision for Global Impact

Looking ahead, Samuels envisions Revolt evolving into a global platform that significantly influences Black storytelling and culture. He noted that the goal is to reshape how Black people are represented in media, ensuring their stories are told through a Black perspective.

“To get better treatment, we must be seen in a better light,” he explained.

“We should be the ones green-lighting the narratives about our people and culture, ensuring the world views us through our lens, not theirs.”

Samuels also mentioned plans to take Revolt World global, with future events potentially held in cities like Paris, London, and throughout Africa and the Caribbean.

What’s Next for Revolt World?

Samuels expressed his enthusiasm for the future of Revolt World and its continued growth. This year, tickets were offered for free as a way to give back to the culture.

“Tickets are free this year. We’re doing this as a service and a gift to the community,” he said. “There’s no excuse not to be there.”