For three vibrant days, Jacksonville became the epicenter of celebration, empowerment, and community during the third installment of the Florida Black Excellence (FBX) festival. Once known as the Black Expo, the reimagined FBX continued its legacy, offering the Duval community a rich tapestry of experiences designed to uplift, inspire, and connect residents around the pillars of business, culture, and heritage.
The festival unfolded with a packed agenda that mirrored the success of previous years, yet elevated the experience with new energy and excitement. Events included the Top 20 Under 40 Business Recognition Awards, the Taste of Black Excellence and the culminated Vendor Fair – a bustling marketplace, hosted hundreds of local businesses and entrepreneurs. Attendees explored an array of products, services, and community resources, meeting face-to-face with creators and visionaries. The anticipation for celebrity appearances added a special buzz, drawing guests eager for entertainment and discovery.
FBX was more than an event it was an immersive journey through the arts, wellness, education, and cultural heritage on the First Coast. The Arts and Culture Zone presented interactive painting sessions, and a thriving local artisan market invited creativity and self-expression. The Health and Wellness Village offered resources and workshops on holistic well-being, providing practical tools and inspiring stories to encourage healthy living. Other zones onsite included the Education Zone and Greek Village and Divine Nine Showcase.
Star power illuminated FBX, with appearances from celebrated actors Kamael Hassan and Tyler Lepley, as well as the charismatic influencer Van Van—whose resume now includes actress, comedian, and host. Their presence underscored the festival’s commitment to honoring Black talent and providing aspirational role models for attendees.
Despite a smaller crowd, the event thrived on genuine camaraderie, meaningful interactions at vendor booths, and the shared excitement of discovering new products and trends shaped by Black entrepreneurs and creators. Attendees left inspired, many with newfound insights or ambitions—like Lisa Fort, who used the occasion to debut her catering business and connect with the Florida Black Excellence vision, “this is an amazing atmosphere, I will be ready next year with my business booth,” she said. The festival’s ability to spark entrepreneurial spirit and community involvement was palpable throughout the weekend.
For three years, FBX has flourished under the leadership of Mincey Pollock, a longshoreman and insurance claims businessman by trade. His commitment to the event has helped cement FBX as a cornerstone event, focused on outreach and support. As Pollock affirmed, “We are here for the Duval community and today we made a statement to stay in place and serve the community with outreach opportunities.” By weaving together business recognition, cultural celebration, and opportunities for community gathering, Florida Black Excellence continues to set the standard for what a festival can mean to a city. Even as it honors the past, FBX looks to the future—nurturing dreams, fostering connections, and affirming Jacksonville’s commitment to Black excellence in all its forms.
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