Zoe Oli, CEO of Beautiful Curly Me, will be the keynote speaker as Black Girl Magic Educational Services hosts its 2025 Black Girl Magic Conference on Thursday, May 29, at Madison College Truax Campus.
Now in its 8th year, the Black Girl Magic Conference is a gathering that unites Black girls from across Dane County for a day of empowerment, leadership, and inspiration. The conference celebrates and supports Black girls through interactive workshops, mentorship, wellness activities, and community building. The conference provides an affirming and joyful space where girls in grades 4–8 can dream big, build confidence, and envision themselves as leaders of today and tomorrow.
“We are thrilled to welcome Zoe Oli to Madison,” said Rosa Thompson, executive director of Black Girl Magic Educational Services, in a press release. “Zoe embodies the spirit of Black Girl Magic — she is bold, brilliant, and committed to changing the narrative for girls everywhere. Her story will undoubtedly inspire our attendees to own their magic and lead with purpose.”
Black Girl Magic Educational Services is a Black women-led nonprofit organization, founded in Madison, that cultivates safe, affirming, and liberating programming where Black girls’ gifts and brilliance can shine. Through events, mentorship, and community engagement, Black Girl Magic cultivates confidence, leadership, and joy.
Zoe Oli founded Beautiful Curly Me at just 6 years old after noticing a lack of dolls that looked like her. Today, her company has sold thousands of dolls, books, and hair care accessories, all designed to uplift and empower young Black girls. Her work has been featured by major media outlets including Forbes, Good Morning America, and The Kelly Clarkson Show.
The 2025 conference theme, “Destined to Dream, Lead, and Shine,” will host 650 girls from over 40 schools. The event will include breakout sessions led by local and national Black women leaders, a book fair curated and hosted by Madison Reading Project and the Madison Public Library, a student talent showcase, DJ Gemini Gilly, giveaways, and more.
