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Voices That Matter
“Buscando Alma”: A Heartfelt Journey of Love, Loss, and Reunion
Melissa Fisher’s Buscando Alma isn’t just a film; it’s an experience that stays with you long after the credits roll. As a mother, and as a Latina whose own mother is an immigrant, this story resonated deeply with me. With its exploration of the emotional complexities of love, loss, and the immigrant experience, Buscando Alma moved me…
Welcome to DG Speaks – Living Out Loud
At DG Speaks, Living Out Loud isn’t just a tagline—it’s an invitation for you to step into your boldest, most authentic self. Here, it’s all about celebrating diversity, sharing stories that connect us, and sparking meaningful change. Whether it’s diving into film reviews, savoring food adventures, exploring cultures, or uncovering the latest in tech, every story is crafted to inspire you to embrace life fully, unapologetically, and on your own terms.
Meet Mercedes
Did you know I’ve sat on a live crocodile? Wild, right? That fearless, adventurous spirit is what fuels my mission to inspire others to “live out loud and have their say.”
Hey y’all! I’m Mercedes Diane Griffin Forbes, but most folks just call me Mercedes. I wear a lot of hats—writer, educator, entrepreneur, mom, and proud nerd. Whether I’m sharing my love for food and culture, diving into the latest film at a festival, or spotlighting the changemakers shaping our world, my goal is always the same: to give voice to the voiceless and bring a little more truth, joy, and empowerment into the mix.
I’ve collected stories, flavors, and inspiration from every corner of the world. DG Speaks is where my passion for storytelling meets a commitment to diversity, equity, and sustainability. It’s a space to celebrate the beauty of culture, the power of innovation, and the art of just being human.
Every voice every story….
“Buscando Alma”: A Heartfelt Journey of Love, Loss, and Reunion
Melissa Fisher’s Buscando Alma isn’t just a film; it’s an experience that stays with you long after the credits roll. As a mother, and as a Latina whose own mother is an immigrant, this story resonated deeply with me. With its exploration of the emotional complexities of love, loss, and the immigrant…
Wicked: A Spellbinding Spectacle That Delivers on All Fronts
As a longtime fan of Wicked on Broadway, I couldn’t wait for this movie adaptation to hit the big screen. Part one of the two-part series is finally here, and let me tell y’all—it’s everything I hoped for and more. From start to finish, it’s a stunning mix of dazzling visuals, powerhouse…
Hella Nuts: Redefining Vegan Eating with Walnut Meat and Bold Flavors
When it comes to plant-based eating, Hella Nuts stands out as a brand that’s rewriting the rules. Founded in 2018 by two dynamic women, this Black female-owned company is all about creating delicious, wholesome, and unprocessed vegan options. From humble beginnings as a pop-up to becoming a dual-brand powerhouse, They have proven that…
Do Anything: Revolutionizing Weeknight Meals with Juicy, Thick, Veggie-Packed Sauces
When it comes to quick, delicious, and nutritious meals, Do Anything is changing the game. This innovative brand has created a line of veggie-based sauces designed to simplify weeknight cooking without sacrificing flavor or health. With allergen-free, plant-based ingredients and bold flavors, these sauces are a must-have for any kitchen. From Family…
Etosha Cave Inspires at Web Summit 2024: Transforming Carbon and Shaping the Future of Sustainability
At Web Summit 2024 in Lisbon, Etosha Cave, Co-founder and Chief Science Officer of Twelve, brought a bold vision to life: transforming carbon into everyday products to build a sustainable, carbon-neutral future. Seeing her on stage—an African American scientist and leader—was a moment of pride and inspiration. Her pioneering work…
Pharrell Williams on Culture, Commerce, and Closing the Wealth Gap at Web Summit 2024
Lisbon buzzed with energy as Web Summit 2024 opened its doors to over 70,000 visitors from around the world, and on the first night, Grammy-winning artist, producer, and philanthropist Pharrell Williams took center stage. Alongside Frank Cooper III, CMO of Visa, Pharrell’s “Culture x Commerce” panel explored the unique intersection…
