It can be hard to meet new people, especially in New York City. The hustle and bustle of city life, the constant updates on social media, and the introduction of A.I. Sometimes you just want to meet people the old-fashioned way, in person. Many people share similar sentiments, but what are some places where you’re not just networking —you’re meeting the right people? My answer: CULTURE CON! Culture Con brings together some of the city’s best and brightest for multiple days of fun, education, self-care, and community. You are just a few feet away from some of your favorite celebrities and one conversation away from a new friend or opportunity.

Why is Culture Con becoming one of the biggest festivals to hit New York City? The answer is simple: Imani Ellis and her team at The Culture Collective (theccnyc). Their promise is “not just a seat at the table” but the tools to build your own table with confidence. Imani is the Founder & CEO of CultureCon and The Creative Collective. She has worked with some of the biggest brands and stars, including Andy Cohen, Jordan, Max, Google, and this year’s sponsors, Chase.

1. Panels – Listening + Learning = Connection

Primarily, CultureCon panels are some of the best in the business. Covering everything from TV/Film, culture, mental health, and finance, they have some of the most qualified people to speak on each topic.

Panels at CultureCon are more than talks—they’re conversation starters. Imagine listening to Cynthia Erivo, Yara Shahidi, or Law Roach share how they balance creativity with advocacy (Ebony). After the talk, approach a speaker or fellow attendee with a thoughtful comment: “Your point about maintaining creative joy while managing burnout really resonated with me—can you share how you implement that habit daily?” This opens the door for meaningful exchanges and future collaboration.

2. Red Carpet – Capture Moments, Start Conversation

The red carpet is more than photo ops—it’s a convergence of media, photographers, and content creators. Whether you’re behind the lens or in front, use it as a networking opportunity. A photographer may ask about your outfit—reply with what inspired your look and pivot to asking about their creative process. Exchanging Instagram handles or portfolios here can lead to collaborations down the line.

The red carpet is for media, influencers, and content creators, but it is a great way to put your best foot forward while meeting other people in your field. I was able to get some great interviews and content on the red carpet while rubbing shoulders with news outlets, blogs, and photographers. My highlight on Teyana Taylor in 2023 got picked up by FashionBombDaily and reposted by the Queen Teyana Taylor herself. My 2024 interview with Yara Shahidi made its way to her team!

3. Networking In The VIP Lounge

The VIP lounge (sponsored by Max) allows event goers (with the VIP wristband) to unwind with an open bar, passed appetizers, and comfortable seating. VIP is your curated meeting space where you can connect with speakers, sponsors, and leaders in a relaxed setting. Prepare a concise intro: your name, what you do, and what you’re looking for (e.g., mentorship, collaboration, creative partnership). Lounge conversations can blossom into career-changing connections through shared creative values or future projects.

In addition, he VIP lounge offers a more intimate space for meaningful networking. Try opening with: “I’ve been inspired by [speaker/topic], and I’d love to hear more about what’s fueling that passion for you.” It’s a clear yet gracious way to steer conversation toward mentorship or collaboration.

4. Networking At The Afterparty

The Afterparty takes place once the activations slow down, and then the panels and workshops are finished. Guest DJs play music, and special guest performers surprise the crowd for an electric close to an eventful day.

In fact, afterparties are where you trim your professional barrier and allow relationships to deepen organically. Chat over music and refreshments—exchange ideas about what moved you in earlier sessions, or bond over shared favorite moments. These spontaneous conversations often lead to strong professional friendships—or even more…

5. Common Areas

At the activations, waiting in line, that transition between speakers, the hallways, bar areas, and casual seating zones are silent goldmines for connection. Spot someone working on notes or chatting enthusiastically about a session—approach them: “You seemed really energized by that speaker—what do you think was the most valuable takeaway?” From these casual encounters often come the most meaningful relationships.

Let’s be real, making friends can be difficult but ice breakers are easy. I’ve once made friends with people by asking them if they had a piece of gum or a pen. Asking them relatable questions like: 

“Have you been waiting here long?’ 

 “ Do you know where ___ is?” 

“Do you know when ____ is speaking?”

— opens the door for you to continue the conversation once you have their attention. Ask more questions, give them a compliment or see where they are from. Using what you have in common allows you to bond further. This leads me to another important stable of CultureCon; The Fashion!

Fashion Hot Spot

Equally as important, as you walk around the streets of Duggal Greenhouse, you can not help but see all the styles and trends. Vogue covered the event last October where the theme was CAMP and the conferences goers did not disappoint.”In fashion, ‘camp’ refers to an aesthetic characterized by exaggeration, theatricality, and irony, often embracing the absurd and the unconventional.” (Think of “Alice in Wonderland”). 

Handing out compliments is easy to do and a easy way to get someones attention. Ask them if they are a stylist, designer, fashion enthusiast or maybe they just know how to put it on!

Finally, friends, mentorships, potential collaborations—CultureCon is a living networking ecosystem. When you show up as you are—stylish, curious, and brave—what you discover at CultureCon can change both your career and your life.

Click Here For More Information About This Year’s CultureCon Happening Saturday, Oct 4th and Sunday, Oct 5th 2025!

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