24th Annual NATJA Conference & Marketplace

Richmond Region, Virginia

May 18–20, 2027

IMPORTANT UPDATES!

Once all tours, dine-around and FAM pre- and post-trip plans are finalized, you can make your selections. You will receive your dine-around and tour at the conference based on availability, in the order of registration. You will receive your pre- or post-FAM trip confirmation in time to arrange travel to or from your destination.

TO SEE A TENTATIVE SCHEDULE, CLICK HERE.

SPEAKERS

Donald Thompson

The Future Doesn’t Come With an Assignment: Why Journalists Must Think Like Entrepreneurs to Thrive in a Changing Industry

The rules of journalism are changing, but the value of great storytelling, trusted relationships, and professional credibility has never been more important. As AI reshapes content creation and discovery, traditional business models evolve, and independent creators compete for attention, journalists must think beyond their next assignment. This keynote explores how media professionals can strengthen their reputations, embrace technology, build valuable relationships, and create new economic opportunities without compromising the integrity of their work. Donald's Bio: Donald Thompson is an award-winning, multi-exit CEO who helps executives connect how they lead to how their companies perform. He became a CEO at 36 and has built and scaled multiple companies to acquisition. He is Managing Director of the Center for Organizational Effectiveness at TELUS Health, formerly Workplace Options, and Board Chair and Lead Investor of ExecBrand Authority, which builds thought leadership programs for executives. He was named EY Entrepreneur Of The Year® 2023 Southeast and to the Forbes Next 1000, and he led Walk West onto the Inc. 5000 three years running. He is the author of three leadership books and hosts the High Octane Leadership podcast.

Nina Zadeh

Topic - Coming Soon

Nina's Bio: Nina Zadeh is an Influencer Marketing Expert and Co-Founder of Sidewalker Daily, an Influencer and Creator Consulting Agency with a community of 170,000+ creators. With 10+ years of experience, she has worked on both sides of the industry, helping brands develop influencer campaigns while helping Creators build sustainable businesses and land partnerships with major brands including Samsung, Dunkin’ Donuts, Revolve, Amazon, and Adidas. She has worked with brands including Jetsetter, the Costa Rica Tourism Board, Four Seasons, American Airlines, Visit Florida, Hotels.com, and Southwest, and has been featured in CNN, BBC, Business Insider, and Entrepreneur. Nina holds an MBA in Marketing and a B.A. in Economics and Communications. Sidewalker Daily Profile: Sidewalker Daily is a team of Influencer and Creator Business Consultants who lead a community of over 170,000+ Creators and Influencers worldwide. Through their work in the Influencer and Creator Economy, Sidewalker Daily supports both sides of the industry. On one hand, they've helped tens of thousands of Influencers and Creators build sustainable businesses, monetize their influence and pitch successful brand partnerships, regardless of their follower size. On the other hand, they have worked on influencer marketing campaigns, UGC campaigns and social media strategy for brands such as the Costa Rica Tourism Board, Jetsetter (A Tripadvisor Company) and many others. Sidewalker Daily has been featured for their work in the Creator Industry in major outlets such as CNN, BBC, Business Insider, Entrepreneur and more.

Jennifer L. Blalock, EdD, CPM

Where Sports Can Take Us: Lessons Learned in Sports Travel Journalism

Blalock will share key highlights in her own personal and professional journey as a travel writer, sports mom, and sports fan to help inspire, inform and influence future sports as travel perspectives. From the ’96 Olympics in Atlanta to the Savannah Bananas to 30 NBA Teams, Blalock will offer key considerations to help authors, journalists, marketing professionals, tourism, conventions and travel professionals maximize their sports stories and impact. Jennifer's Bio: Since boarding her first plane ride to Atlanta, GA, to volunteer at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, Jennifer Blalock has been documenting her travel journey through impact, photos, experience, journalling, and storytelling. A self-described professional recovering soccer and sports mom, Blalock has held leadership roles in public higher education, workforce and economic development, and municipal government. She earned a doctorate with dual concentrations in Higher Education Leadership & Organizational Development and speaks and writes regularly on topics ranging from personal leadership development to sports tourism and travel to parenting and advocacy for learners with different abilities. Currently a resident and employee of the City of Savannah, the nation’s oldest organized City, Blalock, an empty-nester, enjoys pursuing athletic centered travel side quests. She achieved her first sports focused travel mission – attending a home game for all 30 teams in the NBA – in 2024. Blalock believes sports, and the travel it inspires, of all kinds – from community recreation to professional baseball to international competition – bring us closer and enrich our lives with stories of tenacity and triumph of the human spirit.

DINE-AROUND

Once dining options are finalized, you can make your selections. Assignments are based on availability, in the order of registration.

Dining options will be announced soon.

TOURS

Once tours are finalized, you can make your selections. Assignments are based on availability, in the order of registration.

Stories of Freedom: Black History & Culture

Discover the people and places that shaped the Richmond Region's Black history, from thriving communities and entrepreneurial achievements to the courage of those who fought for freedom and equality. Explore powerful stories of resilience, cultural heritage, and the lasting contributions of Black Americans to the region.

Growing Something Good: Farms & Sustainability

Get a taste of the Richmond Region's agricultural roots and discover how local growers are keeping farming traditions alive through sustainable practices and creative entrepreneurship. Meet the people behind the harvest and learn how local farms are blending tradition with innovation.

The James River: Nature Without Barriers

Experience the James River's natural beauty on a guided pontoon boat excursion designed to introduce visitors to accessible outdoor recreation. Discover the river's wildlife, scenic landscapes, and the innovative programs helping more people enjoy Virginia's waterways.

Ride the Rapids: Urban Whitewater Adventure

Experience one of the Richmond Region's most distinctive outdoor adventures: whitewater rafting through the heart of a capital city. Navigate the James River's exciting rapids with professional guides while taking in views of the skyline, historic riverfront, and natural surroundings.

Art Around Every Corner: Murals & Masterpieces

Discover the Richmond Region's vibrant arts scene, from colorful street murals to world-class works at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. Take a guided walk through the city's outdoor art gallery, hear the stories behind the murals, and explore VMFA's extraordinary collections.

Full Throttle: Motorsports & Machines

Explore the Richmond Region's fascination with horsepower, from the high-speed excitement of NASCAR to an extraordinary collection of vintage trucks and tractors. Discover the region's racing heritage and get a closer look at the machines that have shaped American transportation and industry.

Strange Tales & Curious Places

Discover the Richmond Region's delightfully unexpected side, where unusual collections, curious landmarks, and fascinating tales of the macabre reveal a different side of local history. Explore the quirky stories, eccentric personalities, and one-of-a-kind attractions that make the region anything but ordinary.

Uncork the Region: Virginia Wine Country

Venture into the scenic countryside to discover the Richmond Region's growing wine scene. Meet local winemakers, explore vineyards, and sample Virginia wines while learning about the agricultural traditions and creative approaches behind each glass.

OutRVA: LGBTQ+ History & Culture

Discover the Richmond Region through the stories of its LGBTQ+ community, from historic gathering places and milestones in the movement for equality to the artists, entrepreneurs, and organizations shaping its inclusive culture today. Local guides share a personal perspective on the people and places that make OutRVA special.

Wild Encounters: Animals & Conservation

Discover the Richmond Region's wild side, from native Virginia wildlife to exotic animals from around the globe. Explore the fascinating diversity of the animal kingdom and learn about wildlife conservation, animal habitats, and the importance of protecting our natural environment.

PRE- & POST-FAM TRIPS

Once FAM pre- and post-trip plans are finalized, you can make your selections. You will receive your confirmation in time to arrange travel to or from your destination.

Pre- and post-FAM trips will be announced soon.

TRANSPORTATION INFORMATION

ARRIVING BY PLANE OR TRAIN:

Once you have determined your transportation method, please update your registration form with the Information. This will allow us to arrange airport and train station transfers. We will connect with you via email the week before the event to give you all necessary information regarding airport or train station pickup.

ARRIVING BY CAR:

The conference hotel is the Omni Richmond Hotel at 100 South 12th Street, Richmond, VA 23219.

PARKING:

NATJA will confirm complimentary valet parking for the first 25 qualifying registrations, based on the registration date and the driving option selected on the registration form. Once those spaces are allocated, valet parking is $25 per day. Self-parking is also available in the connected James Center garage.

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