Celebrating Community at the Joint Partners Alumni Networking Event


The Joint Partners Alumni Networking Event in Minnesota was more than just a gathering—it was a celebration of community, connection, and the incredible work being done by BIPOC leaders in the Twin Cities. Created as a dedicated space for Black, Indigenous, Asian and people of color in MN, the event offered an opportunity to discover impactful local organizations and strengthen professional networks.


This special evening was made possible through the collaboration of three powerhouse partners: The Wilder Foundation, Nexus Community Partners, and Citizens League—all of whom are known for their work in advancing racial equity in Minnesota.

Multiple dark matte coffee mugs with lids arranged on a wooden surface in uniform rows.
Multiple teal spiral notebooks with black pens laid out neatly on a wooden surface.
A white canvas bag with Joint Partners branding and multiple company logos sit on a wooden surface beside wine glasses.
Three coworkers engage in animated conversation during a casual meeting in an industrial-style office space with exposed brick walls.
Speaker holds microphone while presenting in front of exposed brick wall in casual business setting.
Someone speaks into a microphone while wearing denim at a presentation with a brick wall backdrop and coffee service behind.
A group of students smiling while sitting on a brown leather couch and displaying their achievement certificates.

Photographed above left to right: Jovita Francisco Morales, Jasmine Epps-Flowers, bao Lee and Yingya Vang

The event was held at The Market at Malcolm Yards in Minneapolis, the venue brought its signature warm, rustic aesthetic and an incredible array of local food and drink. As a Twin Cities photographer, I absolutely love working at this space—it’s always a vibe, and the generous client meals are a sweet bonus!


A major highlight of the night was the recognition of BIPOC community leaders in Minnesota:

  • Jovita Francisco Morales
  • Jasmine Epps-Flowers
  • Bao Lee
  • Yingya Vang


These changemakers were honored by their peers for their continued dedication to uplifting and advocating for diverse communities in Minnesota.

People gather at high-top tables inside a rustic bar with wooden walls and industrial lighting.
People gather around a table with a birthday cake and decorations in a rustic wood-paneled restaurant setting.
Rustic restaurant interior with wooden walls, industrial ceiling beams, and diners seated at communal tables.
Three people standing in a casual restaurant setting with exposed brick walls and autumn decor.
Casual dining scene in a rustic restaurant with exposed brick walls and industrial lighting overhead.
Casual diners enjoy a rustic restaurant interior with wooden walls and metal chairs in an industrial-style space.
People gather around a buffet setup with catering trays at an event decorated with blue and white balloons.
People seated at tables having conversations in a rustic restaurant with wooden walls and industrial decor.
A group gathers for a meal at wooden tables inside a rustic brick-walled restaurant with exposed beams and windows.
Diners enjoy a casual meal at rustic restaurant with weathered wood walls and industrial urban atmosphere.
Visitor browsing through brochures and pamphlets at an information table inside a rustic brick-walled venue.
Two restaurant workers having a conversation in front of an exposed brick wall with greenery and table setup.
Friends gather for drinks at a rustic wooden bar restaurant with balloons in a casual, cozy atmosphere.
Two people having an animated conversation at a rustic cafe with brick walls and colorful flowers in the foreground.
A group of friends having a conversation at a rustic restaurant with wooden walls and ambient lighting.

Events like this show the importance of creating spaces for BIPOC professionals in Minneapolis–St. Paul to share their work, build partnerships, and celebrate one another. When we gather with intention and community-centered values, we move closer to a more inclusive Minnesota.