Build Wealth
with AURAN™

The official Creator Casting Night. Models, influencers, creators, entrepreneurs, photographers, videographers, and ambitious professionals are invited to attend, network, and be considered for weekend content opportunities. Free RSVP does not include paid weekend access.

Keynote Speaker

Mekhla Na'vi Jordan

Keynote Speaker · Ms. Universe Globe 2025 · Casting Director, Konnex Talent

Mekhla Jordan is an internationally recognized pageant titleholder, luxury model, Human Rights Ambassador, cybersecurity consultant, and entrepreneur. As Ms. Universe Globe 2025, she embodies elegance, confidence, and purpose, inspiring women to lead with grace and authenticity. Beyond the runway, she is a passionate advocate for human rights, women's empowerment, education, disability inclusion, and financial freedom — using her platform to create opportunities and make a meaningful impact around the world.

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An elevated Friday evening networking mixer on the Georgetown Waterfront — Races & Riches. Founders, investors, creators, and operators connect over the Potomac skyline ahead of Freedom 250 Grand Prix weekend, with high-level conversation on investing, business growth, and building wealth.

Keynote Speaker

Lee E. Smith Jr.

Keynote Speaker · Co-Founder, Rhythm Investor & ASIRE Partners

Known as "Lee El Gringuito," Lee is an entertainment entrepreneur, investor, and connector who has built a global network where entertainment, entrepreneurship, and investment move as one. Over 30+ years he has produced $80M+ in live events across 800+ cities and co-founded DCBX (now in its 16th year) and the Find Your Rhythm Investor Conference in Washington, D.C.

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One combined Friday night takeover at Decades. 10:00 – 11:00 PM: first-floor Rewind Bar networking experience with entrepreneurs, VIP hosts, creators, and Weekend, Platinum, and Diamond Founder Circle guests. 12:00 AM – 3:00 AM: rooftop after party with music, bottle service, and social energy. Book the Stripe link to skip the line and reserve a VIP rooftop table.

Keynote Speaker

Remy Saad

Keynote Speaker · General Manager, Decades DC

Remy Saad is a seasoned hospitality and business leader with nearly 20 years of experience driving operational excellence, revenue growth, and high-performing teams across the fitness, hospitality, and entertainment industries. As General Manager of Decades in Washington, DC, he is recognized for creating exceptional guest experiences, building strong teams, and leading successful, fast-paced operations. Passionate about leadership and business growth, Remy is committed to developing people, improving performance, and helping organizations thrive.

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The premier destination for investors and founders to connect, collaborate, and close. This is the best place all weekend to meet active investors, raise capital for your business, and build relationships with people who can actually fund your next round. Join us for a high-level wealth-building mastermind covering entrepreneurship, real estate, AI & technology, government contracting, personal brand, investing, content, and business growth. A Platinum Weekend Pass is required to attend the wealth workshop portion — book directly through Stripe.

Keynote Speaker

1:00 PM

Lee E. Smith Jr.

Co-Founder, Rhythm Investor & ASIRE Partners

Known as "Lee El Gringuito," Lee is an entertainment entrepreneur, investor, and connector who has built a global network where entertainment, entrepreneurship, and investment move as one. Over 30+ years he has produced $80M+ in live events across 800+ cities and co-founded DCBX (now in its 16th year) and the Find Your Rhythm Investor Conference in Washington, D.C.

InstagramRhythm InvestorFind Your Rhythm Conference

Keynote Speaker

2:00 PM

Caleb Fleming Thornton

Founder, Seed2Table

Caleb Fleming Thornton is a serial entrepreneur, startup ecosystem builder, and Founder of Seed2Table, where he is dedicated to connecting entrepreneurs, investors, and innovative ideas to accelerate business growth. Passionate about fostering meaningful relationships, Caleb has built a reputation for bringing together founders, capital, and strategic partnerships that help startups scale and succeed. Through his leadership, event organization, and extensive network, he creates opportunities that empower entrepreneurs to collaborate, secure investment, and turn bold ideas into thriving businesses.

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Keynote Speaker

3:00 PM

Ja'el Thomas

Co-Founder, Eminent Estates · Co-Founder, Wanzer Family Office

Entrepreneur and real estate leader helping high earners turn paychecks into passive portfolios through income-producing real estate. With $25M+ in assets and 25+ deals closed, Ja'el focuses on assisted living, master lease portfolios, and creative finance across MD, VA, DC, GA, and TX. Half of the Eminent Estates mother-daughter duo.

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Keynote Speaker

4:00 PM

Stacey Thomas

Co-Founder, Eminent Estates · Founder, ST Investments VIP

Entrepreneur, real estate investor, and private money lending expert with $25M+ in assets under management. Regional Leader in Pace Morby's nationwide Subto community and a trusted connector between capital and opportunity across commercial, residential, and multi-family real estate. Half of the Eminent Estates mother-daughter duo.

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An official DCBX partnership night in Arlington's National Landing. Salsa and bachata classes are taught on-site — beginners fully welcome — followed by a late-night social where entrepreneurs, investors, and creators connect on the dance floor until 3:00 AM. Live music energy, great people, and the most fun networking of the weekend. To request tickets or VIP treatment, text 240-801-5151.

Keynote Speaker

Lee E. Smith Jr.

Co-Founder, DCBX · Rhythm Investor & ASIRE Partners

Known as "Lee El Gringuito," Lee is an entertainment entrepreneur, investor, and connector who co-founded DCBX — now in its 16th year — and the Find Your Rhythm Investor Conference in Washington, D.C. Over 30+ years he has produced $80M+ in live events across 800+ cities, blending dance culture with serious business networking.

InstagramRhythm Investor

Keynote Speaker

Auran Shereef

Host · Founder of Konnex · 7× Tech Entrepreneur

Auran Shereef is a seven-time technology entrepreneur, investor, and founder of multiple companies — including Konnex, the networking platform powering this weekend. He co-hosts the DCBX mixer alongside Lee, bringing founders and investors onto the dance floor.

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