Co-Founder - Uncle Nearest
Keith Weaver is an American entertainment executive, entrepreneur, and civic leader known for his strategic influence in media, public policy, and social impact. He served as Executive Vice President of Global Public Policy at Sony Pictures Entertainment, where he led global government affairs and corporate responsibility efforts. Weaver is also a co-founder of Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey, the fastest-growing African-American-owned spirit brand in U.S. history, created to honor the legacy of Nathan “Nearest” Green, the first known African American master distiller. In addition, he founded Inspire Purpose, a social impact platform dedicated to mentorship and career development for underserved youth.
As cities compete to attract talent, tourism, and investment, entertainment and hospitality are emerging as core drivers of urban growth—not just add-ons. This session explores how music, nightlife, sports, and culture are reshaping the economic and spatial logic of new cities. From lifestyle-led developments to creative economy zones, we’ll examine how experience and place-making are becoming strategic tools in the new urban economy.
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