Organized by The Zay Project – a community-focused nonprofit dedicated to celebrating and uplifting black culture through impactful programs and initiatives – A Taste of Melanin has returned. This series of engaging, educational and inspiring events and programs will take place throughout the month of February, aligning with Black History Month.
Now in its second year, A Taste of Melanin was launched by Michael Jackson, president of The Zay Project and founder of Mya Kai Creative Agency, Phoenix’s only black-owned full-service digital marketing agency committed to recreating brands’ images and building the future through its unique approach to design experiences that connect today’s brands to tomorrow’s culture.
“We were blown away by the response, attendance and feedback after our inaugural series in 2024. We look forward to presenting an even bigger and better A Taste of Melanin in 2025 with the introduction of added events and workshops,” Jackson said.
Designed to create inclusive spaces where people can learn about and acknowledge the profound influence of Black people on American culture, the events will be free to community members.
“Our goal is to showcase the rich history, art, music and traditions of Black culture and to help people gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of its many facets. We believe that by sharing these stories, we can create a more just and equitable world for all,” Jackson said.
Featured events include:
The Color of Art on February 6
“The Color of Art” delves into how influential figures – including athletes and hip-hop icons such as Jay-Z and Swizz Beatz – are reshaping the art world.
Hip-Hop Karaoke on February 8
This 21-and-over event is an exploration that connects the dots between the spoken word, poetry and the pulsating rhythms of hip-hop.
Restaurant Week from February 10-16
Black-owned restaurants across Phoenix and Tucson showcase cultural cuisine at its finest.
Love in the Mix on February 13
Through interactive discussions and activities, attendees will explore the challenges and joys of love in the digital age, learn strategies for maintaining mental health and discover how to build meaningful, resilient connections.
Find the full event calendar at atasteofmelanin.org.