Schedule

8:30 am - 1:00 pm

CARICON Speakers in Area Schools

Marcus Garvey School

1:00 pm -

"¡Viva la República Dominicana!"

Central Library, DTLA

Join us at the Central Library in Downtown LA for a vibrant showcase celebrating the rich culture and heritage of the Dominican Republic. Experience the sights, sounds, and flavors of this beautiful Caribbean nation through engaging displays, performances, and more. Don't miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the spirit of the Dominican Republic!

6:00 pm -

VIP Welcome Party

Barbara Morrison Performing Arts Center
4305 Degnan Blvd #101, Leimert Park, Los Angeles

Join us for a red-carpet-worthy meet & greet with this year's CARICON all-star speakers.

7:30 pm -

CARICON Poetry Slam

Barbara Morrison Performing Arts Center
4305 Degnan Blvd #101, Leimert Park, Los Angeles

Join us for an evening of slam poetry as 15 poets vie for the CARICON Crystal Trophy and other prizes.

7:30 am -

Breakfast

Gold Ballroom - First Floor

8:00 pm -

Registration

Registration is open from 8 am

9:00 am -

MC Welcome

9:15 am -

Beyond the Page: Constructing an Author Platform, Brand, and Team

Join us for a session that goes beyond writing to explore the essential elements of your authorial career. Learn how to create a robust author platform, develop your unique brand, and assemble a supportive team to help you excel in the literary world. This session is your roadmap to becoming a well-rounded and successful author.

10:15 am -

Coffee Break

10:30 am -

Elevating Performance: How to Identify Your Target Audience. Drive Direct Book Sales

In today's content-driven landscape, understanding your audience is paramount for achieving impactful results. Join us to explore how pinpointing your target audience can significantly enhance your performance, whether in marketing, writing, speaking, or any creative endeavor. This session promises valuable insights into aligning your message with your audience's needs for more meaningful and fruitful outcomes. Don't miss this opportunity to elevate your performance and drive remarkable results through audience-centric strategies.

10:30 am -

Breakout Session - Deep Dives: Adapting Your Book for Television & Screen

This session is your backstage pass to the art of transforming your book into a captivating television or screen production. Explore the intricacies of adaptation, from storyboarding to casting, and get ready to take your literary creation to the next level. Dive into the world of screenwriting and turn your book into a visual masterpiece.

11:15 am -

From New Book To Agent Representation: A Step-by-Step Guide To Landing a Literary Agent

This session is your roadmap to securing literary agent representation for your new book. Follow our step-by-step guide to navigate the agent-hunting process successfully. Gain insights, tips, and strategies to make your manuscript stand out and capture the attention of top literary agents. Don't miss this opportunity to take the next crucial step in your authorial journey.

11:55 am -

Lunch Send Off [mediation, inspirations or music]

12:00 pm -

Power Lunch + Learn: Mastering Social Media - A 100-Day Plan

Join us at a location to be announced for a dynamic lunch and learn session. Discover the secrets of navigating the ever-changing social media landscape with a comprehensive 100-day plan. From Instagram to TikTok and YouTube, this session will empower you to harness the full potential of these platforms. Don't miss out on this opportunity to boost your social media presence and connect with your audience effectively.

1:30 pm -

Exploring New Trends in Audiobooks and Digital Publishing

Dive into the ever-evolving world of literature with this session. We'll dissect the latest trends in audiobooks and digital publishing, offering insights into the future of reading and storytelling. Stay ahead of the curve in the digital age of literature and discover exciting opportunities for authors and readers alike.

1:30 pm -

Breakout Session - Partnering with Scriptwriters for Success

Learn the art of collaboration in this session. We'll explore how authors can join forces with scriptwriters to unlock the potential of their stories across various media, from film and television to theater and beyond. Discover the magic that happens when the written word meets the visual and auditory realms, and pave your way to success through innovative partnerships.

2:00 pm -

Crafting a Foundation for Long-Term Success with a Literary Agent or Publisher

Join our expert panel for a conversation on how to establish a rock-solid groundwork for enduring success in your authorial journey. Delve into the key strategies and considerations when working with literary agents or publishers to ensure your career flourishes in the long run. Don't miss this insightful discussion that will guide you in building lasting and prosperous relationships in the literary world.

2:30 pm -

Demystifying Copyright, Contracts, and Royalties

Unlock the mysteries behind the legal and financial aspects of your writing career. In this session, you'll gain a comprehensive understanding of copyright, contracts, and royalties in the world of publishing. Equip yourself with the knowledge to protect your work, negotiate contracts, and ensure you receive fair compensation for your literary creations.

3:00 pm -

Coffee Break

3:15 pm -

Turning Children’s Books Into Profits: Mastering the Art of the Licensing Deal

Discover the lucrative world of transforming children's books into thriving ventures. This session will delve into the art of licensing deals, showing you how to turn your beloved stories into profitable opportunities. Unleash the potential of your children's books and embark on a journey towards successful licensing and monetization.

3:45 pm -

Rising Above: Resilience in a Challenging Literary Market

Are you a budding author looking to thrive in a highly competitive literary world? We understand the hurdles you face in an industry brimming with talent. That's why we've curated an exclusive panel discussion just for you! Join us as we bring together a group of seasoned authors who have made their mark in the literary realm. These accomplished writers have faced the very challenges you're navigating, and they're here to share their invaluable insights, strategies, and inspirational success stories to guide you toward literary triumph. Led by the renowned moderator, xxx, this discussion promises to be a goldmine of knowledge, offering you a roadmap to excel in today's dynamic literary landscape. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from the best and steer your literary career towards unprecedented success!

4:15 pm -

How to Break into the Speaking Circuit as an Author.

Are you an author with a passion for sharing your words beyond the pages of your book? This empowering session is your key to unlocking the world of public speaking and taking your authorial journey to the next level. "Breaking into the Speaking Circuit as an Author" is your essential guide to becoming a dynamic and sought-after speaker. Discover strategies, skills, and insider knowledge to captivate audiences and elevate your author brand. Whether you're seasoned or just starting, equip yourself to inspire, inform, and entertain through the art of public speaking. Don't miss your chance to shine in the spotlight!

4:45 pm -

Pitching Your Book or Adaptation to Studios, Networks, and Streaming Services

Unlock the secrets of crafting a compelling pitch for your book or adaptation in this session. Learn the art of selling your story to studios, networks, and streaming services. Discover the strategies, techniques, and best practices that can make your pitch irresistible to decision-makers in the entertainment industry. Whether you're a writer or author looking to bring your work to the screen, this session is your gateway to success.

7:00 pm -

Voices of the Street: CariCon Soundclash Showdown

Leimert Park Village
4300 Degnan Blvd, Leimert Park, Los Angeles, CA 90008

Prepare for an electrifying battle as four DJs go head-to-head, each aiming to claim the coveted title of CariCon Soundclash Winner. Get ready to witness a clash of sounds that will leave you spellbound!

7:30 am -

Breakfast

8:00 am -

Registration

9:50 am -

MC Welcome

10:00 am -

Thriving in a Crowded Market: Stand Out on Amazon with Bestselling Authors’ Insights

Join us for an enlightening session where bestselling authors share their secrets for not only surviving but thriving in a competitive market. Learn how to set your book apart in the crowded world of Amazon, gaining valuable insights to distinguish your work and elevate your success.

10:30 am -

Perfecting Your Pitch: Winning Over Literary Agents

In this session, learn the art of crafting and delivering compelling pitches to literary agents. Discover the strategies and techniques that can make your book stand out, and gain valuable insights into what agents are looking for in a pitch. Equip yourself to leave a lasting impression and increase your chances of securing representation for your literary work.

11:00 am -

Fireside Chat With [ Junot Diaz ]

11:30 am -

Fundraising Strategies for Your Book or Publishing Venture

Unlock the art of raising funds for your book or publishing business with this insightful session. Learn about effective fundraising strategies, whether you're a budding author seeking support for your next project or an entrepreneur looking to invest in your publishing enterprise. Discover the financial avenues available to bring your literary dreams to life.

11:45 am -

Coffee/Snack Break

12:00 pm -

Selling Foreign Rights for Your Book: Principles and Processes

Explore the intricacies of selling foreign rights for your book in this informative session. Uncover the principles and processes behind successful foreign rights deals, expanding the reach of your work to a global audience. Learn how to navigate the international publishing landscape and maximize the potential of your literary creation.

12:45 pm -

Bridging the GAP - Uniting Cultures and Breaking Linguistic Barriers through Literature

Join our panel of experts as they explore the transformative power of literature in bridging cultural divides and overcoming linguistic barriers. Gain insights, strategies, and real-life examples of how stories can foster understanding and unity in our interconnected world. Get ready for an inspiring discussion on using literature to create positive change.

1:45 pm -

Fireside Chat With [ Hulu ]

2:30 pm -

Lunch: Savor the Flavors of Dom Rep

Embark on a delectable adventure with CARICON's Caribbean Extravaganza. Delight your taste buds with an array of authentic Caribbean flavors and culinary delights. Immerse yourself in the vibrant and diverse world of Caribbean cuisine, all in one extraordinary event.

3:00 pm -

Join Us for the Grand Finale - CARICON AWARDS

Don't miss the crowning moment of CARICON - the grand finale where we celebrate outstanding contributions to Caribbean literature. Join us for the CARICON Literary Awards to honor exceptional authors and their remarkable works. It's an evening of recognition and inspiration that you won't want to miss.