What does it mean to design for liberation... not just aesthetics?

In this episode of My Black Space, host Paul Bauknight sits down with acclaimed architect and developer Jamil Ford Sr., founder of Mobilize Design & Architecture (MDA), to explore how design intersects with equity, land, and legacy in Black communities.

Together, they unpack the challenges and opportunities of community-rooted development, the role of Black architects as cultural stewards, and why design must go beyond buildings to create systems of care, ownership, and voice.

Jamil shares real stories from two of his most powerful projects:

• A mixed-use development in North Minneapolis designed to address affordable housing and food access in historically disinvested areas
• The Hennepin County Social Services Center, where deep community engagement shaped every design decision despite major site constraints

When stadiums rise, who gets left behind?

In this episode of My Black Space, Paul Bauknight is joined by architect Nicole Bauknight and communications strategist Stan Alleyne to unpack the deeper story behind America’s stadiums—those gleaming arenas we cheer in, but rarely question. From Allianz Field in St. Paul to SoFi Stadium in LA, this conversation explores how stadiums reshape cities, displace communities, and often leave behind the very people they promise to uplift.

Through local and national examples, the trio dives into the political trade-offs behind stadium construction, the broken promises of economic benefit, and the cultural disconnect between pro venues and the communities that surround them. They also confront the inequities between HBCU stadiums and high school arenas in wealthier districts—offering a powerful lens on race, representation, and what equity in design really means.

This episode isn’t just about sports—it’s about space, power, and the stories our cities choose to tell.

In this episode of "My Black Space, Place, Power, and Justice," Paul Bauknight hosts Sarah Bellamy, the president of Penumbra Theater. The conversation delves into the history and mission of Penumbra, a theater founded by Sarah's father, Lou Bellamy, to present work by, for, and about Black people. Sarah shares her journey from growing up in the theater to leading it, emphasizing the importance of creating spaces that honor Black culture and history. The discussion touches on themes of community, spatial justice, and the role of art in racial healing. Sarah and Paul explore the challenges and opportunities of maintaining cultural sanctuaries in a rapidly changing world, highlighting the need for spaces where Black people can express their authentic selves.

Connect with Penumbra:

• Instagram: @penumbratheatre

In this engaging conversation, interdisciplinary artist PaviElle French shares her journey from the vibrant Rondo neighborhood of St. Paul, Minnesota. Growing up in a community rich with Black culture and activism, PaviElle reflects on how her parents' dedication to social justice shaped her artistic path.

The discussion delves into the profound impact of George Floyd's murder on her work, exploring the essence of Black music and its role in fostering community and justice. PaviElle emphasizes the need for healing and liberation through creative expression, while candidly addressing the challenges faced by Black artists in predominantly white spaces like Minnesota.

Listeners will gain insights into the significance of collaboration between artists and architects, the role of space in art, and PaviElle's exciting upcoming projects aimed at preserving Black history and culture.

Connect with PaviElle:

• Instagram: @pavielle_music 
• Facebook: @PaviElle
• YouTube: PaviElle French 
• LinkedIn: @PaviElle French

Upcoming projects: The Sovereign Residency book and a documentary series. Stay tuned on PaviElle's social media for updates!

Join us for an enlightening conversation with Omari Souza, a visionary designer, professor, and author, as we delve into the transformative power of design in shaping communities. Omari shares his inspiring journey from New York to academia, highlighting the challenges and triumphs in diversifying the design field. Discover how the State of Black Design Conference is reshaping perceptions and creating opportunities for underrepresented voices. 

Gain insights from Omari's upcoming book, "Design Against Racism," which addresses critical blind spots in design practices. Learn about the importance of co-design and community engagement in driving meaningful change, and explore the challenges and opportunities within academia and the design industry.

Don't miss Omari's book release in October and join us at the next State of Black Design event at Prairie View. Let's continue the conversation on how design can transform communities.

Connect with Omari:

• Instagram: @omari.souza
• Facebook: @Omari Abijah Souza 
• LinkedIn: @Omari Souza
• X: @OmariSouza