Photo: DeWayne Johnson, president of South Georgia Black Chambers, demonstrates the capabilities of Google's Gemini AI during a “AI for Small Businesses” workshop at the McMullen Southside Library on Tuesday, September 16th, 2025.
Valdosta – South Georgia Black Chambers hosts hands-on AI workshops at the Small Business Academy Sessions.
release:
Southern Georgia Black Chambers (SGBC) will feature cutting-edge technology skills for local entrepreneurs at their small business academy sessions, “Astadium: AI for AI” and “Leveling Field: AI” on Tuesday evening. The hands-on workshop led by SGBC President Dewayne Johnson provided a practical guide to increasing efficiency and driving business growth using artificial intelligence tools such as Google's Gemini.
The sessions held at the McMullen Southside Library attracted a group of business owners who were passionate about learning how to integrate AI into their daily operations. Johnson has gone through real-life applications, from automating social media content and transcription of meetings to analyzing complex documents and solving business challenges.
The feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive, and many called the experience a “game changer.” Falynn Wilson, one attendee who owns QT Customization, described the workshop as a deep dive into practical solutions. “It's more than that,” she said. “It really helped and supported my business and I could take it to the next level, and I delved deep into how much it's working so hard.”
Another participant, Joseph Jones, runs a notary service and was prompted to apply what he had learned immediately. “I'm definitely going to go home and do my homework like I do now,” he commented after the session. The workshop showed how AI acts as a powerful assistant and saves valuable time spent on tasks like writing articles to entrepreneurs, writing social media posts, and generating commercial scripts.
“What I wanted to introduce is how to take what you have and make it better, to bring you with AI as an expert and as your assistant,” Johnson explained to the group, referring to the value of using AI tools.
This session is part of SGBC's ongoing Small Business Academy, a series of workshops and events designed to provide entrepreneurs in the region with specific resources and networking opportunities.
Southern Georgia Black Chambers, In-house, is a dynamic organization dedicated to the economic empowerment of minority businesses and the broader communities of South Georgia. SGBC provides resources and creates opportunities for businesses to connect, grow and thrive through advocacy, education and strategic partnerships.
