The 2026 African American Golf EXPO & Forum will take place January 21–24 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida, co-located with the PGA Show. The event will officially begin with a highly anticipated opening ceremony designed to energize and motivate attendees for the days ahead. This kickoff celebration marks the tone of inspiration, empowerment, and purpose that defines the EXPO experience.
A highlight of the opening ceremony will be a keynote message from Jeffrey Lee, author of the transformational book Welcome to Rock Bottom University. Lee is known for his powerful insights on resilience, reinvention, and personal growth. Drawing from real-life experiences, his message focuses on achieving success in spite of adversity and overcoming obstacles that often derail progress. His story and perspective are expected to resonate deeply with attendees navigating personal, professional, or entrepreneurial challenges.
Rock Bottom University
The African American Golf EXPO & Forum has emerged as one of the most influential platforms dedicated to expanding awareness, access, and opportunity within the multi-billion-dollar golf industry. Founded in 2021 by Jim Beatty, CEO of Jim Beatty Golf Ventures, the EXPO was created to educate, inform, and inspire African Americans and people of color about careers, business opportunities, and pathways into an industry where African American representation remains under three percent.
Since its inception, the African American Golf EXPO & Forum has steadily grown in reach and impact. The event has been hosted in major cities including Atlanta, Georgia; Charlotte, North Carolina; Louisville, Kentucky; and West Palm Beach, Florida. Over the years, more than 2,000 attendees have participated, with the EXPO generating an estimated economic impact approaching $2 million. Each edition brings together industry leaders, educators, entrepreneurs, students, and professionals who share a common goal of increasing diversity and inclusion in golf.
Jim Beatty’s vision for the EXPO was rooted in his belief that exposure leads to opportunity. With decades of experience in the golf business, Beatty recognized that many individuals were unaware of the vast range of careers available beyond playing the game, including roles in management, media, manufacturing, turf, technology, marketing, and ownership. Through panels, workshops, exhibits, and networking sessions, the EXPO continues to serve as a gateway for meaningful engagement and long-term advancement.
Lee’s address will emphasize that setbacks are not the end of the journey but often the beginning of reinvention. His message aligns seamlessly with the EXPO’s mission of empowerment, encouraging participants to confront challenges with clarity, confidence, and determination. The opening ceremony will also set the stage for additional programming designed to equip attendees with tools, connections, and inspiration to succeed within and beyond the golf industry.
As the African American Golf EXPO & Forum continues to grow, it remains committed to being more than an event. It stands as a movement focused on education, access, and sustained opportunity. The opening ceremony serves as both a celebration and a call to action, motivating attendees to embrace possibility, pursue excellence, and take meaningful steps toward success.
