Our Weekly interviewed Lloryn Love-Carter, Senior Manager, Corporate Communications at Nissan, about Nissan’s partnership with Uptown Vineyard and the Black cultural event held at Martha’s Vineyard. The event begins Aug. 11 and ends on Aug. 15 and is a space for the Black community to network, connect, learn, and be intentional about relishing in Black culture.
Q: How did the Nissan and Uptown Vineyard come about?
A: Our partnership with Uptown Vineyard stems from a shared commitment to driving culture forward and investing in communities that are shaping the future. As a first-time presenting partner, we were drawn to Uptown Vineyard’s powerful celebration of Black excellence, creativity, and leadership. The collaboration allows us to showcase our latest lineup of award-winning vehicles while engaging with a vibrant community that aligns with its purpose-driven approach to cultural investment. It’s a natural fit where innovation meets culture, and we are proud to bring a touch of Tennessee spirit to the Vineyard experience.
Q: What’s the importance of pushing Black culture, especially at Martha’s Vineyard?
A: Martha’s Vineyard holds a unique place in Black cultural history as a long-standing haven of Black excellence, community, and legacy. By amplifying Black culture here, Uptown Vineyard honors and uplifts the richness of that history while also shaping the contemporary narrative. It’s about more than celebration —it’s about visibility, economic empowerment, and creating lasting systems of access and opportunity. Pushing Black culture in this setting elevates the narrative nationally, building a legacy and inspiring future generations to see themselves reflected in spaces of influence and luxury.
Q: What can guests expect at the 5-day event?
A: Guests can expect immersive, unforgettable experiences that truly celebrate the spirit of culture and community. Highlights include “Boots, Eats & The Nissan Heat: Tennessee Night by Nissan”—an evening filled with Southern hospitality, locally inspired bites, music, and culture that bring a taste of Tennessee to the Vineyard. Southern-inspired attire is encouraged, so guests can strut their best boots, fringe, and country soul flair.
Additionally, the event features “Flipping the Script,” a vibrant brunch and conversation panel spotlighting women who are boldly reshaping narratives in media, business, and culture. Over a light brunch and inspired dialogue, attendees explore what it means to drive change, own your story, and create space for new voices to rise.
Throughout the week, we will also host on-island ride-along experiences showcasing our newest editions of Nissan Kicks, Murano, Rogue, and Armada, providing hands-on engagement with attendees. These vehicles represent the best in exceptional style, innovation, quality, and reliability for consumers.
Guests will engage with thought-provoking panels, wellness sessions, and dynamic social experiences—all designed to celebrate Black excellence and foster meaningful connection.
Q: What are other initiatives that Nissan is part of?
A: We are committed to initiatives that promote inclusion and deepen cultural engagement. This includes supporting programs that highlight Black creativity and leadership across a variety of platforms, building community partnerships focused on economic empowerment, and creating experiential activations that bring cultural stories to life. We strive to build authentic connections with diverse communities by fostering meaningful conversations and experiences that celebrate culture and inspire progress.
Q: Why is Nissan invested in the Black community?
A: We believe progress is powered by purpose, and that means intentionally investing in the people and places driving cultural and social change. With 40 percent of our customers coming from multicultural audiences, we are committed to supporting the communities we serve. Our support for Uptown House’s Martha’s Vineyard activations is more than a sponsorship; it’s about building authentic relationships, honoring legacy, and amplifying voices that are shaping the future. Supporting Uptown Vineyard is one way we live out this commitment by celebrating Black excellence and contributing to a legacy of empowerment.
