The Residency launches cultural hub for Black travelers on Martha’s Vineyard

Kellie Pean, co-founder and co-CEO of the marketing agency Brand New: A Collective, launched The Residency, a five-day cultural and social hub on Martha’s Vineyard from August 11–15. Designed as a cultural “third space,” the initiative aimed to provide Black travelers, creatives, and entrepreneurs a dedicated environment to connect, network, and relax without the need to code-switch.

Running alongside the Martha’s Vineyard African American Film Festival, the programming included wellness experiences, panels, networking opportunities, and live performances. The event was hosted at locations including The Harborside Inn in Edgartown and Eleven Circuit in Oak Bluffs. The initiative attracted various brand sponsors, such as Diageo, Peloton, and Hers, and featured contributions from organizations like Femme It Forward, led by CEO Heather Lowery.