HM Queen WA Arian Simone Unveils Fearless Global Initiative with a 100-Year Plan for Economic Inclusion
The Fearless Global Initiative (FGI) made its historic debut on September 22, 2025, during the United Nations General Assembly week in New York City. Founded by HM Queen WA Arian Simone, celebrated entrepreneur, philanthropist, and CEO and Founding Partner of the Fearless Fund, the initiative marked a bold step toward building a century-long roadmap for Black economic empowerment worldwide.
Held at the Glasshouse Chelsea, the event brought together more than 150 global leaders, policymakers, cultural influencers, and changemakers for a powerful gathering themed Designing the Future of Global Black Power. It was not just a launch but a declaration that economic inclusion must move from conversation to concrete action.
From Conversations to Lasting Change
In her keynote, HM Queen WA Arian Simone reminded the audience that progress requires commitment beyond words.
“FGI is where the follow-through finally happens,” she said. “For too long, we have spoken about equity without building the systems to sustain it. Today, we begin shaping the blueprint for the next 100 years of global economic inclusion.”
This declaration set the tone for an agenda that blended dialogue with cultural and strategic action, creating an atmosphere charged with urgency and hope.
A Gathering of Global Voices
The event featured an outstanding lineup of thought leaders and changemakers, including Abby Phillips, CNN News Anchor; Jasmine Crocket, U.S. Representative for Texas’s 30th Congressional District; Ben Crump, Civil Rights Attorney and Advocate; Rachel Noerdlinger, Partner at Actum; Alphonso David, CEO of the Global Black Economic Forum; Kat Graham, Actress and UNHCR Ambassador; Minister Sara Beysolow Nyanti, Liberia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs; Lexi Underwood, Actress and Activist; and Sam Vaghar, Executive Director of the Millennium Campus Network.
Other notable figures included Chris Kirigua, Deputy Chief of Mission and Chief Treasury Representative of Kenya; Gwen Madiba, Editor-in-Chief of Rolling Stone Africa; Simi Nwogugu, CEO of Junior Achievement Africa; Dr. Jatali Bellanton, International Economist and Founder of Brilliant Minds Collective; Pops Mensah-Bonsu, President of SEED Academy Ghana and retired NBA player; and Barkue Tubman-Zawolo, Global Envoy for Cultural Diplomacy for Liberia and CEO of MBL Intl Group.
Their combined presence underscored the global reach and urgency of the mission.
Highlights of the Fearless Debut
One of the most anticipated sessions, What Can I Do for You? What Can You Do for Me?, reframed the narrative of exchange between Africa and Black America. It positioned partnership and reciprocity as the foundation for shared progress.
The centerpiece of the program, The 100-Year Plan: Designing the Future of Global Black Power, launched the development of a framework for long-term economic, political, and cultural transformation.
In an intimate fireside chat, Kat Graham explored how storytelling can fuel economic growth, emphasizing the power of narratives in reshaping markets and mindsets. A live Yoruba art performance by world-renowned artist Laolu Senbanjo added depth to the experience, offering a symbolic expression of freedom, empowerment, and cultural pride.
A Continuation of Unfinished Work
The Fearless Global Initiative situates itself as a response to unfinished business. More than sixty years ago, Malcolm X called on the world to view civil rights as human rights. That call was never fully answered. FGI has picked up the mantle, signaling that the time for delay is over and the global stage must now witness sustainable inclusion.
With its launch, the movement is not only setting a precedent but creating an enduring commitment that future generations can inherit.
Join the Movement
FGI invites individuals and organizations to join its vision of shaping the next century. To become part of this global movement for economic inclusion, visit fearlessfreedom.com and follow the conversation on social media at @fearlessfreedommedia.
The future of global Black power is no longer a distant vision. With FGI, it is a blueprint in motion.
