BIMS WEEK 2023 RECAP

ATTENDEES

SESSIONS

SPEAKERS

ATTENDEE COUNTRIES

SPONSORS

EXHIBITORS

​"It is amazing to see so many Black scientists come together and share knowledge with each other."

WHAT IS

BIMS WEEK?

WHEN: Nov. 26 – Dec. 02, 2023

WHERE: Norfolk, VA

BIMS Week was an inaugural conference like no other—a transformative experience that seamlessly blended professional development with personal well-being. As we look back, we're excited to share the highlights and memories from this extraordinary week.

 "BIMS week has been a lifetime opportunity where I’ve been able to meet other Black Marine scientists not only living in the US but on an international scale."

- Anthony Johnson II

"Being surrounded by so many Black marine scientists who all specialize in different fields is very inspirational."
-Kian James

About BIMS Week

BIMS Week was not just a conference; it's a revolution in professional and personal growth. It sets itself apart by emphasizing a holistic approach that integrates professional networking, personal well-being, and self-care into a single, cohesive experience. 

The conference's program included a luxurious kick-off dinner cruise, a well-curated blend of sessions focusing on mental health, stress management, and industry-specific discussions, and enriching wellness activities like yoga and mindfulness workshops. Attendees were treated to a unique learning experience with interactive, hands-on workshops and outdoor excursions, all while nurturing connections within a supportive community.

​The week's festivities reached their zenith with the Inaugural Sneaker Ball, an evening of style and celebration, encapsulating the spirit of BIMS Week as a pivotal retreat for growth, empowerment, and unity.

"The focus on wellness is awesome and the programming fantastic. From the cruise to the keynote speakers this event is well worth attending!! "
​
-Leslie Gaynu

BIMS Week Theme​

The theme for BIMS Week 2023 was centered on the intersection of environmental conversation, self-care, and community. It was a call to action to engage with our surroundings thoughtfully, foster authentic connections, and empower our personal and collective journeys.

BIMS Week opened with a welcoming group walk to the pier, followed by an elegant welcome dinner cruise, setting the stage for a week of community, growth, and discovery.

Day 2 launched with a focus on mental wellness, featuring an invigorating session by Dr. Tiara Moore and Lynnette Adams, and self-care activities ranging from massages to engaging workshops on branding.

Emphasizing diversity in marine science and sustainability, the day offered inspiring talks from Queen Quet Goodwine and Dr. Raven Baxter, alongside interactive sessions on branding and success.

Day 4 unfolded with an enlightening Litty Café session, a compelling National Marine Sanctuary Foundation keynote, followed by insightful grant opportunity discussions and a rejuvenating sound healing experience.

The day kicked off with a community-driven beach clean-up, followed by interactive educational workshops, and concluded an engaging educator workshop to cultivate the next generation of marine science enthusiasts.

The day was packed with a keynote on success and self-care, collaborative Blue Table Talks, a film fest spotlighting wildlife conservation, and wrapped up with community care chats and a lively karaoke session.

BIMS Week culminated with the signature BIMS Ball, celebrating the achievements of the Black In Marine Science community with Dr. Tiara Moore as the keynote speaker.

View Highlights

A Visual Journey of 

BIMS Week 2023

"I never thought these opportunities would be possible for me. I will leave here feeling and knowing that I can do all the things I have dreamed of!"
– Adrianna Johnson ​