In 2021, Converge Media documented one of Seattle's beloved summer traditions: Jamal Crawford’s annual Pro-Am basketball tournament.

Seattle-based artists Moses Sun and barry johnson, concluded their two-month tandem residency at The Understory in January 2024, a public exhibit space located beneath the Amazon Spheres.

Seattle poet Rajnii Eddins, founder of The Poetry Experience, hosted a book reading and signing event in 2023 at the African Streetwear Gallery TASWIRA.

Reginald Robinson founded Altha’s Louisiana Cajun Store, located in downtown Kent, in 2016 with a vision to bring authentic Southern products to the Seattle area.

Presidential Transportation became a key resource during Seattle’s Central District (CD) Art Walk last year— a monthly celebration of community and creativity.

Tucked away in Seattle’s South End is Emma's BBQ, a culinary cornerstone that serves as a living tribute to generational legacy.

ETC Tacoma's Spring Line launch last year was met with a sweet surprise during Women's History Month as Back2Besa, FOX 13 Seattle, and Molly Moon's hosted an unannounced pop-up.

Marjorie Restaurant, owned and operated by Donna Moodie, is a beloved Seattle institution with a history dating back to 2003.

Besa Gordon took a behind-the-scenes tour of the traveling LEGO exhibit, "Towers of Tomorrow," which was on display at MOHAI (Museum of History and Industry) in 2024.

The Suquamish Tribe maintains a deep, lasting connection to baseball, an athletic tradition passed down through generations. Tribal elder Marilyn Wandrey, a retired Raven Canoe Captain, and Suquamish Tribe Chairman Leonard Forsman shared their insights on the sport's profound cultural role.

Creative Justice programs provide a sanctuary for young people, particularly underrepresented youth, offering sacred spaces where they can be their full selves.

Seattle's history has been profoundly shaped by Black art and culture, serving as a groundbreaking force across various creative mediums including music, dance, and theater.

Steelheads Sunday is back at T-Mobile Park! As the Seattle Mariners gear up for yet another Steelheads Sunday wearing the iconic Seattle Steelheads jerseys, we reflect on the story that was written in the Emerald City streets long before the first pitch was thrown in a stadium.

SpoonFed Training recently celebrated its 10-year anniversary last year by opening a new, larger facility in Tukwila, Washington. This milestone marks a significant new chapter for the fitness center with a clear vision to inspire the Black community to embrace a more active lifestyle.

Deaunte Damper took a self-care day at Red Barn Ranch in Auburn, Washington, thanks to the Buffalo Soldiers of Seattle, a non-profit organization dedicated to upholding the spirit of the historic African-American cavalry, operating for over 20 years across the Puget Sound.

Hip Hop is Green celebrated health and wellness on Cherry Street last year with an event aimed at re-weaponizing hip hop culture to benefit the environment.

Besa Gordon recently visited the new Dignity for Divas headquarters in South Lake Union to learn about how the organization is expanding its approach to women transitioning from homelessness to self-sufficiency. 

Hot Fish House, located in Lakewood, Washington, stands as a culinary tribute to the South, serving up authentic Southern cuisine inspired by the traditional fish houses of South Carolina.

We’re keeping the birthday energy high for DJ O.G. ONE! Last year, we celebrated his birthday on April 20, 2025, at the Ritz-Carlton in Portland, Oregon.

Build 2 Lead, an organization working to empower youth through civic engagement and workforce development, recently hosted a three-day Melanin and Medicine event in Federal Way, Washington.

The Vivid Matter Collective hosted an educational "Skillshop" event at Midtown Square last year, providing students from the Jack and Jill Seattle chapter with a comprehensive introduction to graffiti and mural making. 

During the Takeover: All-Star Edition at Pier 62, Takiyah Ward sat down with artist Damon Brown to discuss the stunning mural he created at Steelheads Alley near T-Mobile Park.

Former NBA Champion Channing Frye has successfully transitioned from basketball star to winemaker, founding Chosen Family Wines in Portland, Oregon.

When Besa Gordon pulled up to Good Day Seattle Thursday morning, she put the community on to some dope events happening around the city this weekend. 

Last year, Besa Gordon met up with Melody Brown, a Portland-based entrepreneur and hairstylist who created a haven for Black hair and beauty with her salon, L&M Hair Company. 

The Bloom Runway Dynasty made a return to The Melody Event Center in Portland’s Central Eastside last year, celebrating fashion, Black creativity, and divine purpose. Founded by Abibat Durosimi, Bloom began as a collective and has successfully grown into a full creative agency rooted in ancestral brilliance and forward vision.

No one is impacting the Portland media scene quite like Tra’Renee, a foundational member of the city’s media landscape for nearly two decades.

The Royal Room in Seattle's Columbia City neighborhood was transformed into a hub for hip-hop history and celebration last year, thanks to Miss Tish Productions and Tish Gallow.

Besa Gordon, Trae Holiday, Deaunte Damper, and Takiyah “T Dub” Ward stopped by Noir Lux Candle Bar, a Black-owned candle-making experience in Downtown Seattle last year.

At Drum Roll Wine in Renton, Washington, the Denkyem Co-op hosted a Third Thursday gathering last year for local Black leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals.

La Cha-Bliss Wines, located in Seattle's Capitol Hill, was founded by Howard Russell to highlight diversity in the wine industry. Officially opened on May 17, 2025, the shop focuses on wines produced by women, people of color, and the LGBTQ+ community.

The Lavender Rights Project's annual Black Trans Comedy Showcase, held at the SIFF Cinema Egyptian on June 8, 2024 was a celebration of Black trans excellence, a statement of resilience, and a showcase of the unwavering spirit of the Black trans community.

Last year, Besa Gordon visited the second annual BIPOC Health & Wellness Fair at the East Side Community Center in Tacoma, produced by Abundance Health LLC.

PJ’s Classic Homemade Ice Cream and Bon Bons, co-owned by sisters Michelle and Danielle Forbes, has brought sweet Black joy and a deep family legacy to Seattle’s Central District.

The Bainbridge Island Museum of Art (BIMA) hosted the Celebrating Black Voices Film Festival last year, offering a platform for Black Seattle-area filmmakers to share their stories.

Molly Moon's Homemade Ice Cream celebrated the opening of its new shop last summer, establishing a major landmark on Seattle’s new Waterfront Park.

In July 2023 during All-Star Week, Major League Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred, Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell, and the Mariners made a promise to the youth of South Seattle: to transform Rainier Playfield into a state-of-the-art facility. 

The historic Grand Central Arcade in Pioneer Square recently hosted a pop-up market, marking the start of a recurring series of events scheduled throughout the spring and summer seasons.

As we gear up for the first Steelhead Sunday at T-Mobile Park this weekend, we look back at "A Salute to the Negro Leagues," a conversation between four leaders in baseball to discuss the profound economic, cultural, and personal impacts of Negro League baseball on Black communities.

The Big O recently joined Good Day Seattle to spotlight a landmark initiative by the Seattle Mariners: the launch of "Steelheads Sundays,” beginning tomorrow, Sunday, March 29.

Seattle’s women in wine shined bright when Converge Media’s own Ashleigh McCurdy of The Sanctuary recently attended the 2026 Women in Wine Taste Experience, hosted by Urban Connoisseurs at Osteria la Spiga in Seattle. 

Seattle Pride Executive Director Patti Hearn and Grand Marshal Deaunte Damper appeared on Good Day Seattle yesterday to discuss the upcoming 2026 Seattle Pride Parade.

Back2Besa and FOX 13 Seattle were honored to be present in the Rose City when the Portland City Council proclaimed November 30th as "DJ OG ONE Day," honoring the legendary David Jackson for his 33 years of leadership and dedication to the Pacific Northwest.

RoJo Juice is a Pike Place Market favorite born from a journey of deep personal purpose. Founder Rhonda "Row" Faison's path to entrepreneurship began after her brother became quadriplegic and was relying on multiple medications. 

There wasn’t a dry eye in the Black Media Matters Studio the moment the news broke. Watching our very own Deaunte Damper learn he’s been named a Grand Marshal for Seattle Pride 2026 is a moment we will never forget.

The Trap Lab, a fitness studio in Federal Way, Washington, is celebrating its fourth year of operation, built on a vision to create a culturally relevant space for wellness. This Black women-owned business has prioritized the emotional, physical, and mental well-being of its community. 

The Seattle hair community recently converged for an energetic display of artistry and innovation at the 12th Annual Reign of Style Hair Show & Competition. The event, held at the Seattle Center Exhibition Hall, was established to provide a platform for creative professionals in the beauty industry. 

Besa Gordon recently joined Good Day Seattle yesterday to discuss her time at the 2026 Mariners food preview at T-Mobile Park earlier this week, where she explored the new culinary offerings for the upcoming season.

One month ago, we lost a giant: iconic civil rights activist Joanne Bland. In 2022, Converge Media had the honor of documenting Bland’s voice in the film “Sankofa Impact,” in collaboration with Obsidian Creative Studios and Choose180.

Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson and Seattle Police Department (SPD) leadership Police Chief Shon Barnes and Deputy Chief of Administration & Investigations Andre Sayles held a press conference to announce the arrest of a juvenile male suspect in the January 30th shooting deaths of two young students in Rainier Beach.

Back2Besa host Besa Gordon sat down with Tiquette Bramlett, founder of Our Legacy Harvested, in 2023, to learn about how Bramlett is transforming the wine industry by creating opportunities for people from all walks of life to get involved.

Jonarra Swanson is the founder and visionary behind MUVA, a unique space in Seattle's Columbia Tower dedicated to empowering mothers who are also artists.

The Prince Hall Masonic Temple opened its doors in 2024 for a community gathering, uniting local vendors and residents to amplify the message of the "100 days of peace against gun violence" initiative.

Besa Gordon joined Good Day Seattle on Thursday to discuss practical self-care strategies for resetting and recharging during dreary winter weather. Gordon emphasized that finding moments of solitude is a necessity rather than a luxury, describing it as a "sacred rendezvous" with one's soul. 

Pizza By Ruffin, one of Washington State’s favorite Black-owned pizzerias, recently opened in Seattle’s South Lake Union, bringing rich, soulful flavors of the Black diaspora to the art of pizza making. Last month, Back2Besa host Besa Gordon stopped by to try the new pizza joint herself.

No one brings community together quite like Double Dutch Divas, a youth enrichment powerhouse centered on building community, confidence, and connection through the sport of double dutch. Last week on Back2Besa, host Besa Gordon celebrated the Double Dutch Divas and threw it back to the times she jumped rope with them.

Black excellence and good vibes recently swarmed the Black Media Matters Studio when Couture Cocktails and Hunter in the Cup hosted a special Cocktails and Charcuterie night.

Black commerce, culture, and community recently took to The Practice Facility in Tigard, Oregon for the second annual Black History Month Market & Celebration.

In 2023, Back2Besa host Besa Gordon checked out a monthly Sync Seattle Mixer at Still Liquor. The event was dedicated to creating space for Seattle’s Black community, highlighting Black businesses and non-profits, and fostering meaningful social connections. 

Members of the Seattle Association of Black Journalists (SABJ) gathered at the Rainier Arts Center in 2023 for an open conversation focused on the importance of Black storytellers and the unique challenges they face in the media industry.

In celebration of Women’s History Month, Back2Besa host Besa Gordon joined Good Day Seattle yesterday to honor the impactful contributions of women across the Pacific Northwest.

Do you have your tickets yet? The HBCU Seattle Series is back this weekend, promising an electrifying showcase of talent, culture, and sound straight from the heart of Historically Black Colleges and Universities' baseball programs. 

Artist, entrepreneur, and mother Jonarra Swanson recently unveiled her first solo exhibition in years, titled "Paintbrush Legacy," at Gallery AXIS in Seattle’s Pioneer Square. Converge creative director and co-founder Erik Kalligraphy took his camera to the gallery and masterfully documented the new collection of Swanson’s never-before-seen pieces.

The second annual HBCU Seattle Series is on deck! This three-game baseball showdown is back, promising an electrifying showcase of talent, culture, and sound straight from the heart of Historically Black Colleges and Universities' baseball programs. 

In celebration of Women's History Month, it is our distinct honor to uplift the legendary journey of TraeAnna Holiday. Trae is much more than a media personality; she is a visionary, a powerhouse, and the heartbeat of our community.

It all started in 2023 when the first HBCU Swingman Classic took over T-Mobile Park, marking a turning point for Seattle baseball and Black representation.

Bookie Gates, founder and president of Baseball Beyond Borders, recently visited Good Day Seattle to discuss the upcoming HBCU Seattle series and its centerpiece event at T-Mobile Park on Sunday, March 8. 

A Unity Walk was held in Renton, Washington in 2024, designed to raise immediate awareness about the escalating issue of gun violence. The event was spearheaded by Dr. James E. Sears III, who has been outspoken about the urgent need for action from community leaders and peers. 

The new Boon Boona Coffee location at the Waterfront Park Overlook recently celebrated its grand opening with an enthusiastic crowd of community members and city leadership, marking a significant expansion for the local coffee staple.

Who’s ready for some HBCU action at T-Mobile Park? The second annual HBCU Seattle Series is returning Sunday, March 8 when the Emerald City’s own Seattle U Redhawks take on the Jackson State Tigers. Get ready for the sound, the culture, and the elite athleticism straight from the heart of HBCU baseball.

With the 12th Annual Reign of Style Hair Show & Competition happening this Sunday, we’re looking back at when Back2Besa captured the event’s magic in 2024. Now for over a decade, Reign of Style has been a dazzling spectacle in the Northwest’s beauty and arts scene, brought to life by the visionary and owner of Life’s Salon Aisha Ellis Asim.

Earlier this month, the community gathered in the name of a legend. The Brothers United In Leadership Development (BUILD206) recently honored Seattle videographer and storyteller Darryl Glover for his 58th birthday at Acts on Stage in White Center, Washington for a night of endearing roasts and testimonials.

Written and directed by the talented Tazewell Thompson, “Jubilee” production delved into the inspiring history of the Fisk Jubilee Singers, a collective who were instrumental in preserving and popularizing Negro spirituals.

Around the Puget Sound, Vibe Bingo is redefining the classic game of bingo with a fusion of music, food, and a high-energy “club element.”

Besa Gordon joined Good Day Seattle this morning to celebrate the grand opening of Boon Boona Coffee's newest location at the Overlook Walk at Waterfront Park. The new cafe, which Gordon described as a "lighthouse on a hill," is intended to serve as a point of connection for the Seattle community.

June 6th, 2025, marked the solemn one-year anniversary of the tragic murder of student Amarr Murphy-Paine at Garfield High School, an occasion that coincided with National Gun Violence Awareness Day.

Back2Besa host Besa Gordon was living her best life out at the Seattle Seahawks Super Bowl celebration last week. First, she walked down from First Hill into downtown Seattle and immediately realized the city was packed. “

Last year, Rainier Beach High School celebrated the grand opening of its beautiful new campus with an open house that featured dedications honoring three pillars of the school's storied history.

A coalition of youth and advocates recently converged on the Washington state capitol in Olympia for Criminal Justice Advocacy Day, elevating the urgency for transformative systemic reform.

For too long, the profound history, culture, and unyielding excellence of Black life in the Pacific Northwest remained a whispered story, largely unetched in the historical record. Converge Media was founded to step decisively into this void, wielding the collective power of photography, video, and film not just as media tools, but as sacred instruments of change and essential community storytelling. 

Do you feel the love in the air? To celebrate Valentine’s Day, we’re throwing it back to 2023 when Ashaunti Martin-Smith, owner of the Seattle-based bartending service Couture Cocktails, hosted a beautiful, love-themed cocktail class at Made Space in the Central District. 

The Culminating Dinner at the Langston Hughes Performing Arts Institute served as the capstone celebration for Langston’s "Create and Thrive" program, an essential initiative developed in partnership with the Central District Forum for Arts and Ideas.

Besa Gordon joined Good Day Seattle this morning to discuss the Empowering Youth Firearm Outreach Program (EYFO), a partnership between the University of Washington and the Seattle Police Department focused on safety and digital literacy for young people. 

“The Day With Trae” host Trae Holiday participated in the first-ever Het Heru Healing Conference in 2023, an event that brought spiritual leaders and healers to the Langston Hughes Performing Arts Institute in Seattle. The conference introduced the ancient practice of the Het Heru Healing Dance to the Pacific Northwest for the first time, a debut which Holiday described as a source of excitement for the hosting community. 

The Central District Art Walk recently transformed the historic Seattle neighborhood into a self-guided celebration of local art, culture, and commerce. The monthly showcase adopted the meaningful theme of "Black Love" for its First Friday event in February. Converge co-founders Erik Kalligraphy and The Big O were on hand, experiencing the creative energy that permeated the district.

Progress Pushers, a non-profit organization operating across Seattle and King County, hosted a backpack giveaway in Seattle’s Alki neighborhood in 2024. Led by founder Eddie Purpose, Progress Pushers actively works to address the public health crisis of gun violence and foster opportunities for young people. To counter this, Progress Pushers offers a range of services, including support, community outreach, and critical youth empowerment initiatives.

Dianna Kennedy is not just a business owner; she is a force of inspiration as the owner and operator of The Makeup Within Beauty Studios in Milton, Washington, and Mrs. Washington Curve' 2025. Her business, which began as an Instagram name to promote inner beauty, has grown into a full-service salon, spa, and Spa Suites—an "incubator space" for other independent beauty specialists. 

Besa Gordon recently appeared on Good Day Seattle to help people find the best local spots to watch the Super Bowl while supporting Seattle-area businesses. Teaming up with social media mogul Mark TellsYa, Gordon  offered a quick tour of game-day venues, including Vinason Pho Kitchen in SODO, Hatback Bar & Grille, Tom's Watch Bar, and Xtadium Lounge. 

Between new friendships and old ones, Besa Gordon loves them all. That’s why she took the opportunity last week on Back2Besa to reflect on her trip to Portland, Oregon with Abby Plaatjes, a radio host from South Africa's 92.5 Mjini FM when she flew into Seattle in 2023.  

#ConvergeOnTheRoad - The energy was high in Mount Vernon, Washington when Converge's own Curtis Delgardo II, aka Cuddy, and Back2Besa host Besa Gordon linked up with DJ Defkawn and DJ Troll King on “The Re-Up” on KSVR 91.7 FM radio. The visit demonstrated Converge Media’s commitment to connecting with communities across the Puget Sound, and showcased Besa and Cuddy’s perspectives as leaders in local Black Media.

With the Kraken and Torrent in full swing, we take a look back at when Besa Gordon visited the National Hockey League's (NHL) United by Hockey Mobile Museum during the 2024 Discover NHL Winter Classic Legacy event in Seattle. This traveling, interactive museum was designed to celebrate the culture and future of the sport, with a heavy focus on the NHL’s growing diversity and inclusion efforts. 

Besa Gordon recently appeared on Good Day Seattle on FOX 13 Seattle to discuss the expansive reach of the Mariners Care Foundation, which led Back2Besa far north to Anchorage, Alaska. As Besa shared, the trip showed how Back2Besa’s mission “Where the Northwest Connects” is more than just a tagline—it’s the spirit that drives the team to find and tell stories of opportunity well beyond the Emerald City.

Seattle holds a distinction no city wants: we are currently the #2 most prolific city for sex trafficking in the United States. Last week at the Summit on Crime Survivors at Seattle City Hall, that grim reality met a wall of collective resistance. This wasn’t just a day for sharing stories; it was a day for demanding systemic change. From the halls of City Council to the frontlines of community advocacy, the message was clear: the time for action is now.

As part of Converge Media’s ever-expanding mission to uplift underrepresented communities, producer Mathew Bermudez took Back2Besa to a new frontier last year: Anchorage, Alaska. The Gamers Alaska program, led by founder Jamar Hill, celebrated the grand opening of a new indoor baseball and softball facility in Northeast Anchorage, offering the next generation of players a beacon of warmth and hope through the long Alaskan winters.

The Steelheads are Back! - As the Seattle Mariners embark on their 50th Season, we are proud to help tell a story that was written in these streets long before the first pitch was thrown in a stadium. The rhythm of baseball in the Pacific Northwest didn’t begin with a modern franchise—it was forged in the dust of the sandlots and the roar of a community claiming its rightful place in the sun.

Opened in 2023, Seattle's Black History Month Museum at Columbia City Theater honors the achievements and resilience of Seattle's Black community and beyond. Marking 100 years since the establishment of Black History Month in 1926, Tony Benton of Rainier Avenue Radio brought the museum to life. It was created for the community to better understand and celebrate their history in Seattle and beyond. 

Seattle Opera debuted the groundbreaking work X: The Life & Times Of Malcolm X in February 2024, composed by Anthony Davis, at McCaw Hall in Seattle. The premiere marked a historic milestone for the company as the first opera by a Black composer ever staged at the Seattle Opera, drawing a crowd that celebrated Blackness, history, and fashion. Trae Holiday of Converge Media caught up with attendees to discuss the significance of this live show.

As a part of Converge Media’s upcoming documentary about the Mariners Care Foundation “Diamond Of Opportunity,” videographer and producer Mat Bermudez traveled to Anchorage, Alaska, to document the grand opening of a new indoor baseball and softball facility. The story he captured quickly evolved beyond a typical sports feature, becoming an emotional and enlightening account of community revitalization, accessibility, and representation for young athletes.

For nearly three years, Back2Besa has held up a mirror to the Northwest’s Black community, reflecting our beauty, excellence, and culture week in and week out. Reflecting on the show’s impact, host Besa Gordon reminded us of the vow we made on day one: to seize the pen, write our own narrative, and make our communities across the Pacific Northwest feel seen. 

Seattle's very first dry cleaner for sneakers, The Re-Sole 206, recently hosted several youth from Northwest Credible Messenger (NWCM) for "Designing the Path,” a custom sneaker workshop. The Re-Sole founder, Takiyah "T-DUB" Ward and Lead Credible Messenger Luther Leonard shared their perspectives on the partnership that built a safe space for the next generation of creatives.

#ConvergePDX - Last month, Besa Gordon and the Back2Besa crew returned to the Rose City—this time, to explore the meaning of Black joy. Continuing to be everywhere like air, Gordon attended the The Mixer: Making P(OR)tland Home at The Evergreen in Portland, Oregon where Black joy was abundant and deeply rooted in community.

Besa Gordon recently joined Good Day Seattle to  highlight the impactful work of Northwest Credible Messenger, a Federal Way-based organization dedicated to providing mentorship, behavioral health, and community-centered programming to youth and young adults. The focus was a creative wellness workshop held in partnership with The Re-Sole 206, Seattle’s first sneaker dry cleaner. 

Did someone say Bloody Mary? Fresh off their five-year anniversary, Communion Restaurant & Bar in Seattle’s Central District welcomed our own Curtis Delgardo II, aka Cuddy, to try Chef Damon Bomar’s house-made Bloody Mary with all the fixings. While Delgardo famously was not a fan of Bloody Marys on a recent episode of “Almost The Weekend!,” he was up for the challenge to push his palette to new heights. 

Happy National Beer Can Appreciation Day! To celebrate, Besa Gordon pulled up to Métier Brewing in the Central District to chop it up with multi-disciplinary artist Damon Brown, aka Creative Lou, and Métier owner Rodney Hines. Brown designed many of the iconic Métier Brewing cans, and he’s all about telling the story of culture, Blackness, and the soul of Seattle’s Central District.

For one month, the Garfield High School student body and Amarr’s Heart Foundation joined forces for the second annual drive collecting socks, blankets, and other winter supplies. In a surprise reveal, Arron Murphy-Paine, Amarr’s father and founder of Amarr’s Heart Foundation, was met with an overwhelming amount of supplies collected through the drive, including 2,000 pairs of socks that quadrupled the effort’s initial goal. 

The recent Reclaiming the Village Summit brought together community leaders, parents, and educators in the Garfield High School library to focus on deep-seated problems and tangible solutions for supporting Black families and students in Seattle’s Central District. Co-led by Garfield Principal Dr. Tarance Hart and 100 Black Parents Executive Director Chukundi Salisbury Sr., the summit addressed what Salisbury described as a "state of emergency” at Garfield.

#ConvergeMediaPresents - We’ve recently had the opportunity to expand our storytelling into Seattle’s cannabis culture, thanks to producer and cannabis enthusiast Curtis Delgado II, aka Cuddy. Tapping into his own expertise, Cuddy visited a private loft in Interbay for an infused Game Night hosted by LUVN Social Club. As Cuddy made clear, the atmosphere felt like home, creating a truly intentional space where good food, flower, and fellowship converge.

Back2Besa host Besa Gordon recently visited Marjorie Restaurant in the Central District for a much-needed taste of elevated Seattle soul. Gordon sat down with owner Donna Moodie, affectionately known as Miss Donna, to get the full rundown on the restaurant's distinct menu and culinary philosophy.

The Scope Screenings season finale, dubbed the “Met Gala Edition,” successfully merged the worlds of fashion and film for a night of creative excellence at the Langston Hughes Performing Arts Institute in the Central District last month. The screening marked the conclusion of the festival’s fourth season, celebrating yet another year of uplifting creatives making heat in the streets but often go overlooked. 

Last week, Back2Besa host Besa Gordon made her return to Good Day Seattle to talk about where Back2Besa is headed in 2026, and more importantly, why her work continues to matter to her on such a personal level. 

Communion Restaurant & Bar just celebrated its five-year milestone with a magnificent anniversary bash, transporting guests straight to the Harlem Renaissance for a night of pure glamour and togetherness. In this story, Chef Kristi Brown takes us through her journey in her own voice, focused on a resounding love for her Communion family and the culinary spirit that keeps her going. 

Quincy Henry, co-owner and CEO of Campfire Coffee, opened his Tacoma-based shop out of financial necessity. After he and his wife both lost their jobs in the span of a few months in 2018, Henry leveraged his marketing background and their mutual passion for the outdoors. From their engagement to their honeymoon, they built a brand centered on the relatable idea of enjoying coffee around a campfire.

At Sweetpea’s Cakes, founder and cake artist Jennifer Jones is all about remixing simple ingredients into literal works of edible art that taste as delicious as they look. Jones and her team have unequivocally mastered their cake flavors from mixed berry and carrot to tiramisu and cookies and cream, plus delectable french macarons, cake pops, chocolate covered strawberries, and their neverending rolodex of custom cakes. If you can dream it, they got you covered. 

Before the Seahawks take on the 49s on Seattle turf this Saturday, we’re taking it back to when host of Back2Besa Besa Gordon toured the Seahawks Pro Shop, featuring iconic throwback jerseys and all the Seahawks drip you could ask for. Joined by Jeremiah Whipper from the pro shop, Besa basked in the sea of legacy jerseys featuring legends like Steve Largent, Walter Jones, and other players from the 70s and 80s.

Lil Red's Takeout & Catering made Besa Gordon’s Fan Foodie tour on Back2Besa last week, serving up slow-smoked Jamaican BBQ with real smoke flavor in Seattle’s Columbia City. Infused with the heart and soul that owner Chef Erasto "Red" Jackson brings to his craft, Lil Red’s mouth-watering brisket and ribs, fish plate with greens and mac and cheese, snapper topped with eskovitch sauce, and the rest of the stacked menu are perfect for your next culinary adventure or upcoming get-together. 

Head to Beau Legs Fish 'N' Chips in Lacey, Washington, to experience a taste of the South that has become a local favorite for over 15 years. Known for their signature "South in your mouth" flavor, they bring authentic Southern comfort to the Northwest using beloved family recipes. While they are famous for their fish and chips, be sure to try other soul-satisfying dishes like their gumbo and jambalaya. 

Besa Gordon’s Fan Foodie tour took a trip down I90 East for a blast of Southern flavors at Fresh Soul in Spokane, Washington on Back2Besa last week. Owner Michael Brown is all about satisfying the soul, serving up classics done right like his signature gumbo, slow-cooked collard greens, and the highly-praised, light and crispy deep-fried catfish meal.

In the heart of Kent, Washington sits Altha's Louisiana Cajun Store, the ultimate pilgrimage for anyone seeking authentic Southern and Bayou flavors. Altha’s is a specialty market brimming with Cajun and Creole products imported directly from the South, including hard-to-find items like Blue Bell ice cream, specialty spices and meats, and classic brands like Tony Chachere’s and Slap Ya Mama.

The Big O recently joined Seattle News Weekly on FOX 13 Seattle to discuss the upcoming Reclaiming the Village Summit at Garfield High School and ongoing King County nonprofit fraud. 

The AI House officially opened its doors at Pier 70 with a grand opening celebration last year. This joint initiative involves the City of Seattle Office of Economic Development, the AI2 Incubator, and the Ada Developers Academy. The space is designed to attract, grow, and retain top-notch AI talent in Seattle, which already boasts one of the world's highest concentrations of AI jobs per capita.

Few things compare to the sense and soundness of family. At Converge Media, we’re lucky to have a family of our own, connected through the walls of the Black Media Matters Studio and a shared mission to tell better stories in our community. Before the year ended, we made sure to come together as one, celebrate our accomplishments, sing, dance, take some fly pics thanks to photographer Jordan Somers, and rejoice in each other’s energy and brilliance.

As we close out a joyous 2025, we are ecstatic to share the first look at our upcoming documentary “Diamond of Opportunity” following the Mariners Care Foundation, premiering Spring 2026 on FOX13 Seattle. From Jacksonville, Mississippi to Anchorage, Alaska, to home plate in the Emerald City, the Mariners have committed to making baseball and softball more accessible, more visible, and more inspirational to underrepresented youth who lack reliable resources to play the game they love.

November’s “Scopesgiving” edition of Scope Screenings at LANGSTON in Seattle's Central District was flowing with the weight of gratitude for artistic excellence, creative community, and inspiration through darkness. Converge Media premiered the trailer for the upcoming documentary “Diamond of Opportunity,” following the immense impact of the Mariners Care Foundation and its programs that have literally transformed the lives of youth around the country. 

The opening night of Scope Screenings Season 4 earlier this year brought together independent filmmakers in Seattle and celebrated Converge host Trae Holiday’s Emmy win in June 2025. Trae’s iconic show intro for “The Day With Trae” landed her the Emmy win, and her Seattle community pulled up to Scope Screenings to watch the sensational intro on the big screen at the SIFF Cinema Egyptian in Capitol Hill, alongside other local filmmakers making the Emerald City’s creative world tick. 

At SIFF Cinema Egyptian in August 2025, Deaunte Damper screened a story on the monumental grand opening of the new Rainier Beach High School campus. Produced by Converge Media, the story represented the decades of unwavering advocacy and collective vision coming to life in the name of uplifting youth in Rainier Beach. 

The opening night of Scope Screenings Season 3 in 2024 featured Converge Media’s Emmy-nominated documentary “Nooksack 306” at the Egyptian Theatre, alongside other independent voices in Seattle film. 

July 2025’s edition of Scope Screenings in Ballard featured Besa Gordon and Darryl Foto’s collaboration “Black Joy.” This project brought together Gordon’s beautiful narration and a moving poem by Foto, celebrating and exploring the essence of Black joy across the Pacific Northwest. 

When it comes to hard-hitting informative impact, Converge hit gold with “The Morning Update Show,” spearheaded by the personalities and passions of hosts Trae Holiday and Omari Salisbury in 2020. Looking back at the early days of the show beginning at its conception in response to the pandemic, “The Morning Update Show” quickly transformed from a short-term project focused on informing people about the health crisis to a pillar of street-level coverage of local and national news in Seattle.

In celebration of winter, Besa Gordon visited the Woodland Park Zoo in 2023 to experience the magic of the WildLanterns. Gordon took a personal tour with Public Relations Specialist Craig Newberry, and took in all the mystical sights of the zoo's annual holiday lights experience while wandering the illuminated pathways.

Last year, Portland hip-hop legend Cool Nutz took it back to his roots and celebrated his birthday bash at Alberta Street Pub in NE Portland just blocks from his original studio where he started making music years ago. Family, friends, fans, and  supporters from across Portland and as far away as Seattle and Eugene all showed up and showed out to literally give the Rose City rap legend his flowers.

The street luxury brand Mediums Collective hosted a fashion show earlier this year that celebrated legacy, community, and art through clothing design and beyond. On East Pike St & 11th Ave in Seattle, the collective sought to honor its journey and the people who have supported them after recently opening a store, marking nearly a decade. The event served as a creative protest, with designers, models, and art enthusiasts expressing their passions for fashion and storytelling.

The Big O recently joined Seattle News Tonight to reflect on his recent interview with Mayor-elect Katie Wilson on “The Big O Show.” He focused on the new administration’s structural changes, including the decision to appoint only one Deputy Mayor, Brian Surratt, and Wilson’s strategies at alleviating issues in the Chinatown International District.

This morning, Converge Media’s Omari Salisbury “The Big O” joined Good Day Seattle to discuss his recent interview with Mayor-elect Katie Wilson on “The Big O Show.”  Salisbury shared his perspective on what Seattleites should expect from Wilson's administration, including a new approach to City Hall, public safety, and homelessness. 

Yesterday, Converge Media joined hands with the Seattle Public Library and the Black Heritage Society of Washington State to celebrate the 50-year anniversary of the name change of Douglass-Truth Library. Part of that celebration was an informative discussion about the Soul Pole. A story that Converge Media documented in 2022 captured the reinstallation of the Soul Pole and its enduring legacy and representation of the Black community and their pursuit of freedom. 

From the PNW to the midwest, Seattle-born alternative hip hop star Oblé Reed performed for the first time in Chicago in October as a part of the Groundwaves open mic and mentorship program founded by hip hop legend MURS. The open mic has become a launchpad for artists nationwide, and for the first time, it made its debut in Chicago, featuring Reed representing the Emerald City. 

Black joy, representation, and holiday spirit were in full swing when Surge Reproductive Justice hosted their annual Black Santa event last week, bringing together Black families for a fun-filled day of community at the Original Selfie Museum in Seattle. The event was an opportunity for Black families to gather, eat, and play, with free food, hot cocoa, and a chance to take a picture with a Black Santa.

Omari Salisbury recently sat down with Libby Denkmann and Will James on KUOW's “Soundside” to discuss recently rediscovered footage from the Capitol Hill Occupied Protest (CHOP) in June 2020. This video, filmed by Salisbury, captured the words of sixteen-year-old Antonio Mays Jr. just days before he was tragically shot and killed in the zone.

Last month, Sole Food: For the Community, presented by The Re-Sole 206, was more than just a sneaker gathering; it was a powerful combination of footwear culture and dedicated community service. Sparked by The Re-Sole’s founder Takiyah Ward’s simple belief that her team could bring the neighborhood together around food, music, and generosity to create something meaningful for the people who need it most.

The stage is set once more for the triumphant return of "Black Nativity," the celebrated holiday production originally conceived by the legendary poet and playwright Langston Hughes. Presented by Intiman Theatre from Dec. 10 to 28 at Seattle’s Broadway Performance Hall, this revival has established itself as a powerful annual touchstone, re-igniting a sense of community, faith, and cultural pride in Seattle.

Earlier this year, Back2Besa host Besa Gordon met up with two of her day one fans Lanakila Washington and Reggie Ross, at Beau Legs Fish ‘N’ Chips in Lacey, Washington. Lanakila and Reggie initially introduced Besa to Beau Legs via email, which was the show's first piece of fan mail Back2Besa ever received back in July of 2023.

The Martin Luther King Jr. Scholarship Fund, founded in 1985 by a group of neighbors in Seattle's Mount Baker community, is dedicated to helping deserving students achieve the dream of higher education. This scholarship, a sponsored activity of the Mount Baker Community Club, supports high school seniors who demonstrate financial need, academic promise, have overcome obstacles, and actively contribute to their community.

On World AIDS Day in Dec. 2024, the African American Reach and Teach Health Ministry (AARTH) partnered with several health organizations to present “Take The Rights Path” at the Langston Hughes Performing Arts Institute. The event sparked passionate words and conversation from major community figures working to end HIV through a human rights agenda.

The heartbeat of the Spokane Black Joy Uplift is celebrating the people of East Central Spokane who fight every day for community, for legacy, and for this essential Black Joy. This is the spirit within: Black Joy, a strength that need not wait for permission. We create it ourselves, a warmth comparable to soul food that revives the soul.

On Blended Knee (OBK), the first Black-owned winery in Pierce County, opened the doors to its new tasting room last month, serving not only high-quality wine but also forging communities as they celebrated the start of a new beginning. Their official opening was celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony that united friends, family, and neighbors, demonstrating what can be achieved when community wraps around you.

Jamal Wilson established Zara Jo Beauty Supply with Director of Events and Community Development Autumm Coles in Seattle’s Central District to create a beauty supply store that truly represents and serves the Black  community. Their motivation stemmed from the belief that many available products aren't made with the hair and skin of their community in mind, often lacking the necessary experience and understanding of their unique needs. 

October’s Scope Screening brought together compelling independent storytelling in Seattle at the Langston Hughes Performing Arts Institute. The monthly film festival, helmed by founder Lex Scope, provided a crucial big-screen platform for local artists and underrepresented voices.

The 8th Annual Black College Expo kicked off at Rainier Beach High School earlier this month, introducing students and their families to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and other higher education institutions from around the country. The event attracted over a thousand students from Seattle Public Schools who could see and learn about colleges for free, with the goal of filling in the gap between students and their access to opportunities.

Have you ever met someone who just gets your vision without having to explain it? That has been Besa Gordon’s experience with Seattle-based photographer Jordan Somers. Over the years, he has captured everything from Besa’s professional milestones to the most candid behind-the-scenes moments, and his work feels like a visual diary of her growth.

This morning, Besa Gordon joined Good Day Seattle to uplift Zara Jo Beauty Supply, a new beauty supply store in Seattle’s Central District. Besa shared that her recent trip to Zara Jo’s exemplified Black representation in the beauty industry, with 95% of the store’s products being from Black-owned companies. She also said that owner Jamal Wilson and company made her feel like family. 

In honor of Transgender Day of Remembrance, we look back at when Omari Salisbury chronicled the pivotal Taking B(l)ack Pride event at Jimi Hendrix Park in Seattle's Central District in 2021. The festival, which centered on the city's Black Trans and Queer community, sparked national attention and unfortunately resulted in threats against organizers and attendees.

In support of men’s mental health, we look back at Willis Walker’s conversation with Trae Holiday on "The Day with Trae" last year to discuss the Black Men Run initiative in Seattle and the importance of centering Black men's health and wellness. The organization, which started in Atlanta, Georgia, has fostered a sense of community that goes beyond just fitness, with members gathering for "Black boy joy," jokes, and music on their Sunday runs.

For too long, the history of Black life, culture, and excellence in the Pacific Northwest remained uncaptured. Converge Media steps into this void, using the power of photography, video, and film as instruments of change and community storytelling. Our mission is to ensure the voices of the underrepresented are not only heard but immortalized, etching their stories forever into the historical record.

As Native American Heritage Month continues, Converge reflects on Native American and First Nations night at a University of Washington (UW) volleyball game in November 2022 with non-profit Rise Above. Dedicated to uplifting Native youth, Rise Above helped connect kids with the inspiring talent and athleticism of the UW volleyball team, including player Emoni Bush. 

In honor of Native American Heritage Month, Converge looks back at an interview on the Morning Update Show with Executive Director of the human services agency Chief Seattle Club Colleen Echohawk in November 2020. Alongside hosts Omari Salisbury and Trae Holiday, Echohawk discussed the significance of Native American Heritage Month and the resources for Indigenous people she passionately worked to create and share at the Chief Seattle Club.

Who knew a day trip across the Sound was so easy? Last week on Back2Besa, Besa Gordon hopped on the King County Water Taxi’s newly added Saturday schedule to Vashon Island. Thanks to the new Saturday schedule, Besa could dip out of the city on the weekend to take a much-needed deep breath, bask in the hometown vibes, and recenter her spirit before starting her week strong. 

In light of Katie Wilson’s win of the Seattle mayoral race over the incumbent Bruce Harrell, Converge looks back at her interview with host Trae Holiday on The Day With Trae in April, 2025. As a Seattle mayoral candidate, Wilson centered her campaign platform primarily on addressing Seattle's critical issue of housing affordability and accessibility, she explained. 

We are deeply saddened by the passing of Mattice Hoyt, the powerhouse behind Mattice Beauty Supply in Tacoma. We were fortunate to catch up with Mattice earlier this year, where she shared her powerful journey and the heart behind her work. Emboldened by her fight with cancer, she never stopped showing up with love, purpose, and joy.

As we turn the corner in the final months of 2025, what better time for a jolt of Black Joy? Today, we are taking a look back at Besa Gordon and Darryl Foto’s collaboration earlier this year that captured the true essence of Black joy in the Pacific Northwest. 

It wouldn’t be Besa Gordon’s birthday week without professional wrestling. That’s why we’re throwing it back to when she was the ring announcer at the DEFY Wrestling WC Spirit event earlier this year. Filling the Central District’s Washington Hall with kicks, punches, and electricity, the event showcased the strength and spirit of women in wrestling, and their skills as athletes and entertainers. 

Today, we celebrate Besa Gordon, the host of Back2Besa and a true Queen of Converge on her birthday. Last week on Besa’s Back2Besa birthday special, she gave us a look behind the scenes into not just shooting her beloved show in the FOX 13 Studio, but into her reflections, hopes, and manifestations as she closes out her most recent trip around the sun. 

To celebrate National Go To An Art Museum Day, we take a look back at when Back2Besa collaborator GZ Radio covered The Creative Advantage Summer Institute at the Seattle Art Museum (SAM) last year. Local artists, art educators, administrators, and community partners took part in professional learning through panels, workshops, and community-building activities, with the goal to make arts more accessible to all grade levels.  

Curtis Delgardo II, aka Cuddy, recently teamed up with King County Metro to highlight their new campaign encouraging the community to ride the bus, light rail, and water taxi more often. The commercial, featuring Cuddy shot by Erik Kalligraphy, showcases just how easy it is to explore the Emerald City with Metro. Let’s roll together, Seattle!

Chef Trey Lamont, the owner of Jerk Shack Kitchen and host of the new series Food with Melanin, recently interviewed Chef Erika White at her restaurant, Fats Chicken and Waffles in the Central District. In the first installment of the series airing in 2026, the chefs talked about Fat’s historic location and significance as a Black-owned restaurant bringing Southern soul to the Pacific Northwest. 

This morning, Besa Gordon joined Good Day Seattle to share her recent trip to Vashon Island, made possible by the King County Metro water taxi. After taking the water taxi to the island, Gordon was picked up by Chef Dre, owner of the restaurant Gravy, who took her to his favorite spots and served up a taste of Southern soul.

Every first Thursday of the month, the Pioneer Square Art Walk serves as a vital showcase of Seattle's creative community and local businesses. Recently, the event took over Pioneer Square for yet another free gathering where artists, musicians, and entrepreneurs converged throughout Occidental Square, local art galleries, street corners, and storefronts in an explosion of Pacific Northwest excellence. 

A Space Inside recently hosted an open mic night at River Seattle, creating a hub for music, poetry, rap, singing, and underrepresented voices in local art to be heard. Hosted by Deaunte Damper, the event fostered a supportive and loving atmosphere and created a safe haven where individuals could be vulnerable, express themselves, and overcome fears often associated with public expression. 

Wally's Northwest Soul opened its new storefront in Seattle’s Central District last month, bringing delicious Pacific Northwest soul food and a welcoming atmosphere to the historic Seattle neighborhood. The grand opening marked a major development in the community, filling the former space of the beloved Jackson’s Catfish Corner after its closure earlier this year. 

Do you worry your vote doesn’t have an impact? Trae Holiday is here to remind you just how much it does. Local elections are all about setting policy from the ground up, and as community members, that means those decisions affect you the most. These choices aren’t made in a vacuum—they’re made by the people you elect with the intention that you put behind your vote.

Besa Gordon took her annual road trip to Terrain in Spokane, Washington, the Inland Northwest's largest multimedia art and music festival that celebrated its "sweet 16" last month. Featuring nearly 500 artists showcasing close to 900 pieces, the event showcased a wide array of visual art, performance art, dance, and a full musical lineup, highlighting the rich creative spectrum of the region. 

Have you stopped by the ballot box yet? Besa Gordon has some honest words to share about why you need to get out and vote. This election isn’t just about checking a few boxes—it’s about harnessing your power as a citizen of Seattle, King County, and the State of Washington, putting your ballot where your voice is. It’s like Besa said, your voice is the loudest in the city, but only if you use it.

Dignity for Divas, a non-profit organization helping women transition out of homelessness in Seattle, launched a fridge and pantry program at the Diva Dream Academy in 2024. Made possible with the support of Champions of Change and One Love Foundation, Dignity for Divas opened a food pantry that offered much-needed support to women in need as financial access to food in Seattle continues to decline. 

To celebrate the start of National Native American Heritage Month, Converge takes a look back at the Eighth Generation, a Seattle-based arts and lifestyle brand owned by the Snoqualmie Tribe. In 2024, the tribe hosted a powerful event celebrating the release of the Huy butterfly blanket.

To celebrate the spirit of Halloween, we’re throwing it back to when Besa Gordon attended Couture Cocktails' Halloween-themed cocktail class in 2023. This seasonal class was a part of owner Ashaunti Martin’s holiday-themed cocktail series where she taught participants how to create an exciting array of delicious drinks. 

This morning, Besa Gordon joined Good Day Seattle to preview Chef Trey Lamont’s new series Food With Melanin, highlighting the stories and history behind local Black chefs. The first installment featured Chef Erika White of Fat’s Chicken and Waffles in Seattle’s Central District.

WeRise Wines celebrated the joy of wine and inclusivity with a Pour and Explore anniversary celebration for its wine club and the launch of a new private-label wine. As a Black LGBTQ-owned business in Downtown Seattle, WeRise is a platform for underrepresented wineries and winemakers to connect their products with a community that prioritizes purchasing and appreciating wine with intention.  

SpoonFed Training recently celebrated its 10-year anniversary with a grand opening, marking the second chapter for the Tukwila fitness center after outgrowing its previous location. The opening brought together SpoonFed’s devoted community to commemorate this monumental milestone, with love to share about the organization’s impact on the Black community. 

Seattle’s Central District was alive with Black artistic excellence last month when Wa Na Wari put on its annual Walk the Block Festival. Walk the Block transformed the historic streets into a celebration of Black art and culture through moving expression and commitment to letting local artists shine brightly.

Celebrating the creative prowess of local women in filmmaking, Scope Screenings held its Queen of the Screen showcase at the Langston Hughes Performing Arts Institute in Seattle’s Central District last month. The event aimed to shed light on the often-unseen contributions of women behind the camera, showcasing their immense talent and invaluable perspective in the industry.

Deaunte Damper, host of Converge Media’s We Live in Color visited the PNW Black Pride's 2023 "One Community, One Voice" event at the W Hotel. The Black Pride weekend focused on uniting the Black LGBTQ+ community and fostering love among individuals, especially given the dispersed nature of the Pacific Northwest's Black population.

Seattle jazz has creatively defined the history of the Central District and Jackson Street, and in October 2024, its legacy and prominence was properly preserved with the launch of the Jackson Street Jazz Trail.

The Eastside Community Center in Tacoma, Washington lit up last summer when “The Change Movement” took over the stage. Created by Innovative Changemakers and Northwest Credible Messenger, the event included rapper D Smoke, seen on Netflix's "Rhythm + Flow" and a teacher at Inglewood High School, who uses his art for community benefit and promoting hip-hop culture.