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Vision:8291 SXSW Four Day Cultural Experience
March 14 - March 17
DAWA (Diversity Awareness and Wellness in Action), the Austin-based nonprofit dedicated to investing in BIPOC community and culture, will present Vision:8291, a four-day cultural experience during SXSW, March 14–17, 2026 at 916 Springdale Road, in partnership with Venice Music. From Saturday, March 14, through Monday, March 16, the Almost Real Things Gallery will be transformed into a space for BIPOC innovators, leaders, creatives, organizers, and entrepreneurs to tell their stories and share their knowledge. On Tuesday, the 5th Annual UNITY Showcase takes place at Riviere from 7 pm-1 am with Cure For Paranoia headlining. The entire event is FREE with RSVP to the public.
The immersive series will feature live podcasts, panels, keynotes, film screenings, networking activations, and showcases exploring music, organizing, technology, and the future of community-centered creativity. Opening with industry heavy-hitters like Mauricio Ruiz (Founder of the Manager’s Playbook) on Saturday, and closing with business leaders like Troy Carter (Venice Music Founder) and Dan Runcie (Founder of Trapital).
Each day of the series centers a distinct theme (full schedule below):
Saturday, March 14 — The Music Blueprint
A deep dive into the evolving music industry, including conversations on independent touring, artistic growth, sync licensing for film and television, and artist management strategy. Featured speakers include podcaster Mauricio Ruiz, Austin artist Jackie Venson, multidisciplinary creative Zeale, and industry leaders in music supervision, production, and management.
Sunday, March 15 — The Culture Catalyst
Exploring corporate partnerships, grassroots organizing, narrative power, food justice, and transformative storytelling. Programming includes a screening and discussion led by Richie Reseda, alongside conversations with cultural organizers and community leaders shaping BIPOC futures and equitable systems.
Monday, March 16 — The Future Is Always Now
Focused on infrastructure, sustainability, and technology in the arts. Sessions include rollout strategy, direct-to-fan engagement, and a keynote titled Community Is Our Greatest Technology delivered by DAWA Founder, Chaka Mahone. The day also features a headline conversation with Troy Carter (Venice Music) and Dan Runcie (Trapital), exploring AI, algorithms, and authenticity in a rapidly shifting industry landscape.
Tuesday, March 17 — UNITY Official SXSW Showcase
An official SXSW music showcase featuring headliner Cure for Paranoia, with additional performances from DAMOYEE, Shanay Morant, Nic The Cig, Vintage Jay, The Smooth Nature, and DJ Wyldflower.
