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MULTICULTURALMIAMI

April 2026

MULTICULTURAL

Welcome to our monthly newsletter!

This newsletter consists of GMCVB collaborations and business resources available on a local and national level. In addition, it contains a sampling of past department activities and upcoming in-person and virtual events in Greater Miami and Miami Beach.

What's New

 

Autism Acceptance Month

April is Autism Acceptance Month. It primarily focuses
on raising awareness, promoting understanding, and advocating for the rights and inclusion of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). It celebrates the unique perspectives, strengths, and contributions of individuals with autism and serves as a platform to promote acceptance, support, and appreciation for neurodiversity within society. Click here to learn more about the sensory-friendly museums, attractions and accessible travel in Greater Miami and Miami Beach. We are dedicated to ensuring that everyone can enjoy the wonders of our destination with comfort and ease.

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National Poetry Month

Launched by the Academy of American Poets in April 1996, National Poetry Month honors the vital role poets play in shaping our culture and reminds us that poetry truly matters. O, Miami Poetry Festival invites you to discover a vibrant lineup of literary events and celebrations taking place throughout Greater Miami and Miami Beach. Click through to explore a curated selection of happenings and immerse yourself in the power of words.

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Miami-Dade 250: Celebrating Community, Culture and Country

Miami-Dade County has launched planning for Miami-Dade 250, a countywide initiative commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States while honoring the people, cultures and ideas that define the community. Chaired by Mayor Daniella Levine Cava, the Miami-Dade 250 Advisory Committee unites civic, cultural and business leaders to shape a year of programming, culminating in a Fourth of July celebration at Tropical Park. Residents, artists, students, veterans and organizations are invited to share their stories and submit events to be part of this meaningful 2026 commemoration. Get the details here. 

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David C. Driskell & Friends 

On view through October 11, at the Patricia & Phillip Frost Art Museum Florida International University, David C. Driskell & Friends: Creativity, Collaboration and Friendship explores the lasting impact of Driskell through the relationships that shaped his life and work. The exhibition highlights how friendship, mentorship, and collaboration have been vital forces in shaping African American art across generations. Rather than centering individual achievement alone, the show reveals the power of shared creative exchange and community in driving artistic innovation. 

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Miami Film Festival

Experience the excitement of the 43rd Miami Film Festival, presented by Miami Dade College. This year’s dynamic lineup features more than 100 feature narratives, documentaries, and short films from 40 countries. Screenings and activities take place at more than 10 cultural and historic landmarks across Greater Miami & Miami Beach. From captivating screenings to lively parties and engaging conversations with industry talent, it’s a cinematic celebration not to be missed. Explore the program here. See you at the movies April 9-19!

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Get Game-Ready: Miami Launches World Cup Community Toolkit

With the FIFA World Cup 2026 on the horizon, the Miami Host Committee has introduced a Community Engagement Toolkit to help local businesses, nonprofits and community leaders tap into the excitement. Designed as a practical playbook, the resource offers strategies to boost visibility, drive foot traffic and create memorable fan experiences while fostering community pride. 

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Save the Date! H.O.T. Challenge Golf Tournament
Mark your calendar for the 33rd Annual H.O.T. Challenge Golf Tournament, hosted by the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau on May 8 at the JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Isle Resort & Spa. Enjoy a day of premier golf, exclusive networking with hospitality leaders, and standout culinary experiences—all in support of the Visitor Industry Council (VIC) and our vibrant hospitality community. Whether you’re playing, sponsoring, or donating auction items, your participation makes a meaningful impact. Click here for further details, and thank you for your continued support of the GMCVB and the hospitality industry.

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Featured Festival: Sankofa Jazz Concert 

An evening of rhythm, legacy and innovation returns to the Marshall L. Davis Sr. African Heritage Cultural Arts Center with the annual Sankofa Jazz Concert on April 11. This dynamic showcase features an impressive lineup of musicians across jazz traditions. Rooted in the West African concept of Sankofa—looking to the past to inform the future—the concert honors jazz’s rich history while celebrating its continued evolution. Presented by one of Miami-Dade’s leading cultural institutions, the event offers a powerful tribute to the enduring influence of jazz on American music and culture. Click here for more details about this wonderful event.

MORE FESTIVALS & EVENTS

Hospitality Industry Education

 

FIU Shines in Global Rankings for Hospitality

Florida International University (FIU) continues to rise on the global stage, with its hospitality program ranked No. 3 among U.S. public universities, No. 23 worldwide and No. 1 in Florida in the 2026 QS World University Rankings by Subject. These accolades, alongside strong showings across multiple disciplines, underscore FIU’s academic excellence and the global reputation of its Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management, recognized for industry connections and accomplished alumni. The 2026 rankings evaluated more than 55 subjects across 6,273 programs at 166 institutions worldwide, reflecting FIU’s expanding global impact and continued commitment to excellence. Click here to read more. 

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Art of Black Miami Logo
Artwork by Jamea Richmond

Art of Black Miami Podcast Unveils Season 6 

Season 6 of the Art of Black Miami Podcast continues its commitment to elevating voices from Miami’s vibrant creative community. Each episode highlights authentic stories from artists and organizations whose work is rooted in culture, collaboration, and bold expression. Through shared perspectives and real experiences, listeners connect with the creatives helping shape the city—where art, identity, and community intersect. The new season launches April 20, with monthly episodes through September. Discover more at Art of Black Miami.

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Business Development & Resources

 

Leveraging Tourism to Expand Your Business Workshop 

Tourism continues to power the local economy across Miami and Miami Beach, drawing millions of visitors each year to experience its vibrant culture, cuisine, arts and small businesses. Discover how to tap into this growing market at an upcoming Tourism & Business Opportunity Workshop, where you’ll learn strategies to attract visitors, build partnerships and capitalize on increased economic activity. Hosted by the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau’s Multicultural Tourism & Development team as part of its Tourism Business Enhancement program, the session takes place April 14 at the Little Haiti Cultural Complex. Ideal for small business owners, artists, vendors and service providers, the workshop features presenter Ed Ponder, a hospitality trainer, entrepreneur and founder of RedNop Management Group. Click here for more details and to register.  

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Community Highlights

 

SongKran Thai Festival

Celebrate Songkran, the vibrant Thai New Year also known as the “Water Festival,” with a day of meaningful rituals and joyful cultural traditions. Rooted in the belief that water washes away misfortune and brings blessings for the year ahead, this lively celebration invites guests to partake in the playful tradition of water splashing while embracing its deeper spiritual significance. Don’t miss this festive experience and come get wet on April 12 at Wat Buddharangsi Thai Temple of Miami—click here to learn more.

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Visitor Industry Council (VIC)

Artwork by Jamea Richmond

Pictured Left to Right:  Widler Boucher, Aviation Management  at Florida Memorial University  and Vernon K. Chipman, VIC Program Manager, M.S.Ed.

 

St. Thomas Fashion, Food & Wine Festival

VIC was proud to serve as a sponsor of the 5th Annual Fashion, Food and Wine Festival hosted by St. Thomas University, led by VIC Board Member Dr. Samer Hassan. The event was a true showcase of talent, energy, and leadership. VIC Scholars took center stage, demonstrating their culinary skills and professionalism across multiple food stations. St. Thomas student and VIC Scholar Mondesy Nicolas served as Executive Chef at the VIP station, while Miami-Dade student and VIC Scholar Monique Williams led operations at the Lorna’s Caribbean Restaurant tent, showcasing exceptional leadership. Additional VIC Scholars were on-site sharing information about VIC’s mission and impact. The event was filled with great vibes and powerful moments, highlighting what’s possible when students are given the opportunity to lead. 
The future of the industry is bright—and it’s already here.

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Conventions, Leisure & Travel

 

Next Month:  The American Black Film Festival

Mark your calendars! The American Black Film Festival (ABFF) returns to Miami Beach from May 27–31 to celebrate its 30th anniversary. Widely regarded as the nation’s largest gathering of Black film and TV enthusiasts, ABFF draws artists, filmmakers, executives and culture lovers from around the world for five days of screenings, engaging conversations, exclusive events and high-powered networking. Proudly sponsored by the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau, the festival continues to spotlight the richness and impact of Black storytelling on a global stage. Click here for further details.

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More Topics

 

Top Deal

 

Sustainable Tourism

MTDD Photo Album

Heritage Month

Gems in History

Explore Miami Deals Program

Adventure awaits across Greater Miami and Miami Beach, where endless experiences meet thoughtfully curated offers designed to enhance every visit. From exclusive admission opportunities and seasonal packages to savings on hotels, attractions, tours and acclaimed dining, enjoying Miami has never been more rewarding—or more unforgettable.

EXPLORE DEALS

More Topics

 

Sustainable Tourism

MTDD Photo Album

Heritage Month

Gems in History

Explore Miami Deals Program

Adventure awaits across Greater Miami and Miami Beach, where endless experiences meet thoughtfully curated offers designed to enhance every visit. From exclusive admission opportunities and seasonal packages to savings on hotels, attractions, tours and acclaimed dining, enjoying Miami has never been more rewarding—or more unforgettable.

EXPLORE DEALS 

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A destination made to be seen from every angle 🌴🌊 #FindYourMiami

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Brought To You By Tourism

Meet the Multicultural Tourism & Development Team

Connie Kinnard

Connie Kinnard

Senior VP, Multicultural Tourism & Development

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Petra Brennan

Petra Brennan

Senior Director., Tourism Business Enhancement, Multicultural Tourism & Development

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Herlinda Lombardi

Herlinda Lombardi

Program Manager, Multicultural Tourism & Development

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Ella Pedre

Ella Pedre

Coordinator, Multicultural Tourism & Development

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Graylyn Swilley-Woods, Ph. D.

Graylyn Swilley-Woods, Ph.D.

Executive Director, VIC, Multicultural Tourism & Development

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Vernon Chipman

Vernon K. Chipman, M.S. Ed.

Program Manager, VIC, Multicultural Tourism & Development

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Connie Kinnard

MULTICULTURAL TOURISM & DEVELOPMENT

Connie Kinnard

Senior VP, Multicultural Tourism & Development

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Petra Brennan

TOURISM BUSINESS ENHANCEMENT

Petra Brennan

Senior Director, Tourism Business Enhancement

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Herlinda Lombardi

MULTICULTURAL TOURISM & DEVELOPMENT

Herlinda Lombardi

Program Manager

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Ella Pedre

MULTICULTURAL TOURISM & DEVELOPMENT

Ella Pedre

Coordinator

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Graylyn Swilley-Woods, Ph. D.

MULTICULTURAL TOURISM & DEVELOPMENT

Graylyn Swilley-Wood, Ph.D.

Executive Director, VIC

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Vernon Chipman

MULTICULTURAL TOURISM & DEVELOPMENT

Vernon K. Chipman, M.S. Ed.

Program Manager, VIC

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