Convergence 2010, The Arts Alliance's annual conference for local artists and arts managers, is scheduled for Tuesday, October 26, from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. at Eastern Michigan University's Student Center. This year's keynote speaker is Derrick Ashong.

Ashong has dedicated his life to building bridges between the fields of business, media, technology, youth culture, pop culture, and politics. The 35-year-old, Harvard-educated Ghana native is a highly respected musician, performer, and activist.

Ashong, who hosts a weekly radio show on SIRIUS XM’s Oprah Radio, and was the winner of Billboard Magazine’s 2007 World Song Writing Competition, will be focusing on the impact of the arts on education, and their value in creating social change.

“We are thrilled that Derrick has agreed to join us,” says Tamara Real, President of The Arts Alliance. “His message is relevant to so many sectors, including education and business, and really underscores our mission of creating strong communities through arts and culture.” In addition to Ashong’s keynote address, the conference will feature presentations on personal branding, using storytelling to fundraise, advocate, and sell art, balancing a creative lifestyle, and an introduction to L3Cs (low-profit, limited liability corporations), among others. To register or get more details about Convergence 2010: Can the Arts Be a Catalyst for Change? visit http://bit.ly/2010convergence, or contact The Arts Alliance at 734-213-2733. Tickets for the luncheon & keynote alone are also available.