FORT LAUDERDALE — Politics will take center stage at the National Urban League (NUL) Conference July 29-Aug 1 with presidential candidates Hillary Clinton, Jeb Bush, Ben Carson and Martin O’Malley confirmed to speak at the event known for tackling key political, civic, community and business issues affecting African Americans.

The four-day event at the Greater Fort Lauderdale/Broward County Convention Center is expected to attract about 10,000 people and generate nearly $10 million to the local economy.

The conference theme is “Save our Cities: Education, Jobs & Justice,” and will feature several top political, business and community leaders.  Speakers include Susan L. Taylor, Essence Magazine’s editor-in-chief emerita and founder/CEO of National CARES Mentoring Movement’s National Office; U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan and hip hop artist MC Lyte.

“The National Urban League
is dedicated to producing quality programs and high-caliber events with high-profile speakers, panelists and entertainers,” said Marc H. Morial, National Urban League President and CEO, who will deliver opening keynote remarks. “By providing forums that inspire our attendees, we motivate them to continue empowering themselves, their communities and the nation.”

The NUL conference will also host a career and networking fair, expo hall and small business marketplace that will be free to the public.

The next generation will also be involved with the Youth Leadership Summit, “Raise the Bar: Dream It, Believe It, Achieve It!” with more than 600 youth who will learn about college preparations during the summit that will be hosted at Nova Southeastern University in Davie.

Conference attendees can network with industry leaders and successful entrepreneurs while learning strategies to make a profitable business at the Small Business Matters Entrepreneurship Summit.  Participants can also qualify to win $10,000 in prizes for their business ideas.

The Women of Power Awards Luncheon and the Young Professionals Summit are some of the other events scheduled for the conference.  Additional planned activities include the National Council of Urban League Guilds Leadership Luncheon with Essence magazine editor-in-chief emerita Susan L. Taylor and Urban League Live: Flashback Friday – A Salute to Soul Train, hosted by MC Lyte.

Art lovers can enjoy the work of emerging and established artists at the Art Expo at the Urban League of Broward County. The Children’s Services Council of Broward County (CSC) will provide 100 scholarships worth $40,000 for students across Broward County to allow more local youth participate.

“This conference will provide career-shaping opportunities for local artists and small businesses to inspire thousands of visitors from our community and across our nation with their collections, products and services,” said Germaine Smith-Baugh, Ed.D., president and CEO of Urban League of Broward County.

The NUL conference will host the first ever “Taste of Paradise,” a three-day food village showcasing culinary cuisine from local chefs and restaurants in Greater Fort Lauderdale. The conference will also showcase the new Living Well Program, which focuses on diabetes management and prevention and will gather walking groups from local organizations, churches and civic groups to participate in a power walk Saturday, August 1 to promote health and wellness.