05/08/2026
: Setting Our Standard, Shifting Our Strategy, Saving Our Scene!
AMPLIFy 2026: Ballroom Advocacy & Mobilization Conference
📅 August 19–22, 2026
📍 Orlando, Florida
Theme: SOS - Setting Our Standard, Shaping Our Strategy, Saving Our Scene
AMPLIFY was created as a space for Ballroom leaders, organizers, and community voices across the South to come together and do real work. Not just talk about what’s needed, but build it together. This is not a spectator event. It is an immersive working conference focused on strengthening leadership, building strategy, and creating solutions that move our communities forward.
Developed in partnership with the Black AIDS Institute, this work continues to evolve. This year, they remain a strong supportive partner as we center the voices of the Ballroom community and those working alongside us to advance the culture and drive meaningful systems change.
Participants can expect:
* Panel discussions that speak directly to what we’re seeing and dealing with in our communities
* Hands-on workshops focused on real skills and tools you can use
* Full group sessions where we come together to set direction
* Small group and collaborative spaces to work directly with other Ballroom leaders and community partners
This is an opportunity to sit at the table, share your experience, and work alongside others to strengthen and improve the culture in ways that are practical and lasting.
This space is built for people who are already doing the work and ready to take it further.
The goal is simple: what happens in the room does not stay in the room. It should return to communities stronger, clearer, and ready to be put into action.
While AMPLIFY is intentionally focused on the South, we will reserve a limited number of spots for applicants outside the region to support broader national connection and impact.
Applications are being accepted through June 8, 2026. The deadline to submit your application is by 11:59 PM Eastern.
Please read carefully:
* This is a closed, invitation-based conference.
* To protect the integrity of this space, there are no walk-ins, no on-site registration, and no self-funded attendance outside of the application process.
* If you do not apply, you will not be invited. This application is your opportunity to be considered.
Selected applicants will be eligible for travel scholarships that include:
* Airfare for those traveling more than 100 miles
* Hotel accommodations
* Select meals
* Conference registration
Additional guidelines:
* No +1s — every individual must apply and be selected
* If you are open to sharing a room, all individuals must apply and indicate that in the application
* We are intentionally curating a group that reflects a range of lived experiences, leadership, and perspectives across the community
Incomplete or late applications will not be considered.
If you have questions, feel free to reach out to Marcus at 704 900 0714.
🔗 Apply here:
Please complete this application in full. All sections are required. Applications will be accepted until 11:59 PM Eastern on June 8, 2026. Submitting this form does not guarantee acceptance, and late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
