Under the bright lights of Birmingham's city hall, excitement filled the air as city officials gathered to discuss an event that promises to spotlight the city on a national stage. Lord Watson, founder and CEO of the Penny Foundation, took center stage to unveil details about the upcoming second annual Penny Games, set to take place from October 1 to October 3.

This three-day event is poised to be a vibrant celebration of culture and competition, bringing together students from over 16 historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs), more than 500 local high school students, and over 100 colleges, employers, and civic partners. Watson emphasized that the Penny Games are not just about competition; they are a unique opportunity to showcase Birmingham to young people across the nation.

The event will be divided into two main components: a virtual gaming competition and a debate tournament. The gaming portion will kick off with HBCU colleges competing online, with the top 12 teams advancing to Birmingham for the finals at Miles College. Meanwhile, the debate segment will feature eight prestigious schools, including Howard University and Morehouse College, engaging in spirited discussions at Birmingham City High Schools.

Watson highlighted the importance of this initiative, stating that it aims to attract top students to Birmingham while fostering local talent. The partnership with Speak First, an organization dedicated to developing debate skills, will also help create a Birmingham debate league, further enriching the educational landscape.

In addition to the competitions, a college fair at Topgolf will provide students with a relaxed environment to connect with recruiters and explore their future educational opportunities. As the city prepares to welcome these young minds, the Penny Games stand as a testament to Birmingham's commitment to growth, education, and community engagement. The anticipation builds as the city gears up for an event that promises to leave a lasting impact on its future.