EXPO founder and organizer Jim Beatty is asking all attendees to please bring socks to the EXPO as was done last year. Socks are being accepted daily, January 21-24, during the African American Golf EXPO and Forum hours at the Orange County Convention Center, Orlando, Florida.
In 2025, the EXPO donated 200 pairs of socks to the Salvation Army for the homeless. The EXPO strives to make a difference in the community. Bring your socks to Room W108 A/B, the newly named Denise and Nate Howard Exhibition Center where you can meet 2026 Co-chairs of the 2026 African American Golf EXPO and Forum Sock Drive Malachi and Essie Knowles at their table ICYG/AAGHOF in room W108A/B or W110A.
Malachi Knowles, known for his passion to celebrate the historical accomplishments of the African American Golfers and advocate for the success of youth in golf and education and his wife, Essie, established the African American Golfers Hall of Fame in 2004. Their vision was to create an organization that honors the past and inspires future generations of African Americans in golf. The Knowles’ dedication to this cause stems from their deep love for the game and their desire to see it become more inclusive and representative of all persons.
ABOUT THE EXPO
The mission of this event is to educate and inform African Americans about the jobs, careers, and business opportunities in the $102 Billion Golf industry. African Americans represent less than 3% of the industry. The EXPO started in 2021 and has been held in Atlanta, GA, Charlotte, NC, Louisville, KY and West Palm Beach, FL. Over 2000 people have attended with an economic impact approaching $2M. The EXPO founder and organizer is Jim Beatty, CEO of Jim Beatty Golf Ventures. The EXPO 2026 dates are Jan 21 – 24, in Orlando, Fl at the Orange County Convention Center collocated with the PGA Show and at the Dubsdread Golf Course. Free to attend the EXPO. Free for those wanting to go to the Exhibits only. Adults 21 and over. Everyone must register. Website: www.aagolfexpo.com, Information is updated daily
