Future Fest Connect was created with one powerful goal: to bring an immersive gaming and technology conference to Durham, NC that connects the next generation with the innovators shaping tomorrow.

Designed for middle school, high school, and college students — as well as young adults exploring new career paths — this event opens the door to opportunities in esports, video game development, and the broader tech industry.

Our mission is to bridge the gap between industry and community through gaming and technology by creating a space where ideas are shared freely, career questions are answered, and connections are made to help navigate a lifetime. Attendees gain direct access to industry professionals, real-world insight, and a clearer path toward building a future in tech.

Learn firsthand from experts at Epic Games in the Epic Games Learning Lab, where you can explore career pathways and discover what’s possible with Unreal Engine. Experience cutting-edge technology with Lenovo. Dive into manga and anime conversations with Saturday AM, the world’s largest Black-owned manga publisher based right here in Durham. Witness innovation in motion with a flying car demonstration featuring Heather Chirtea, the first woman flying car pilot.

Parents and children are encouraged to attend — because the future of technology isn’t coming someday. It’s happening now.

Speakers

Meet and learn from professionals in the tech/gaming industry including, but not limited to:

• Frederick L Jones – Creater of the award-winning black female lead shonen manga series, Clock Striker. This Durham native also owns the largest black-owned manga publisher, Saturday AM.
• Greg Boone – CEO of Walk West, a marketing agency based in Raleigh, NC that unites content, tech, and AI to create measurable, effective campaigns.
• Elias Toufexis – Actor known for his roles in The Expanse and Star Trek: Discovery, along with anchoring blockbuster games including Assassin’s Creed, Call of Duty, and Deus Ex.
• Toiya K. Finley – Game designer, writer and editor who has been involved with AAA titles like Destiny 2.

Find the full list of speakers on Future Fest’s website: https://www.futurefestconnect.com/speakers.

Tickets

Future Fest is built around connection – connecting children and young adults to leaders in the gaming and tech industry, connecting fans with creators, and connecting ideas with opportunity. If you are passionate about emerging tech trends, the future of interactive entertainment, and gaming, this is the event for you. All are welcome to attend. Tickets are available here: https://www.eventeny.com/events/futurefestconnect-27605/.

Hotel

From luxurious to boutique, Durham offers a diverse array of lodging options all within walking distance of the convention center. The closest is the Marriott City Center, which shares a lobby with the venue. The full list of options, along with links to book your stay, are on our website.

Parking

Parking is available at the Durham Centre Garage at 300 W Morgan St. Across from that garage is limited street parking along with the main entrance to the venue. Directions are available on our website.

Our accessibility entrance is shared with the valet entrance at the Marriott Hotel on 201 Foster St. Wheelchairs are available at the convention center, if needed. An ID will be required and kept on file during use. Your ID will be returned to you once the wheelchair has been returned.