"Aligning Code to Design Intern", led by Figma's own Jake Albaugh and Marcel Weekes. The conversation gave attendees a front-row seat to the evolving landscape where engineering, design, and AI intersect—painting a powerful picture of the future of software development.

Jake Albaugh, Developer Advocate at Figma, and Marcel Weekes, Figma's VP of Product Engineering, brought both humor and depth to a discussion that felt both personal and visionary. For Jake, it was his first time at RenderATL, and his excitement matched the energy of the crowd. 

Together, they pulled back the curtain on how Figma is not just a design tool but a platform redefining the relationship between developers and designers. Marcel broke down the split between platform and product engineering within Figma, explaining how product engineers are at the forefront of building what users interact with—including their newest innovations like Dev Mode and FigJam AI tools.

AI and the New Era of Engineering
The pair did not shy away from the hot topic: AI. They addressed the industry's excitement and anxiety head-on, discussing how AI represents one of the biggest shifts in tech—perhaps as monumental as the internet itself. But rather than taking a doomsday approach, both speakers emphasized AI as a tool for augmentation, not replacement. “Design is how you think about people,” Marcel noted, reiterating that human empathy and problem-solving will always be essential.
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They emphasized that while AI may reduce the "activation energy" required to write code, what remains constant is the need for empathy, understanding of user problems, and intentional design. Marcel reminded attendees that we’re entering a time where the real value isn’t in writing boilerplate code—but in solving meaningful problems with human-centered solutions.

From Auto-Formatting to AI Orchestration
A highlight of the session was Jake’s relatable reflection on the transition from hand-coding every detail to embracing tools like Prettier, which format code automatically. What initially felt like a loss of identity became a revelation: the less time spent on tedious tasks, the more space there is for impactful work.

Now, the conversation has moved beyond auto-formatting to agentic coding—a practice where developers orchestrate AI agents to handle parts of their workflow. This emerging skillset, they said, will define great developers going forward: those who can break down problems, instruct AI agents, and tie the results together cohesively.

Exploring with Figma's New Tools
Marcel and Jake showcased Figma’s latest innovations, like Figma Make, a powerful new prototyping tool that bridges the gap between idea and production. They emphasized that this isn’t about skipping design steps—it’s about exploring problem spaces visually and collaboratively, before writing a single line of production code.

They also shared real-life examples of designers using tools like Figma Make to pre-visualize UX flows—prioritizing user intent and iterative learning. “Designers can now test and refine ideas faster, helping teams build the right product before writing the final code,” Jake explained.

Introducing MCP: Connecting Design and Code
One of the most buzzworthy takeaways was Figma's Model Context Protocol (MCP) server—a groundbreaking way for design data to inform and enhance AI-powered coding tools. Jake broke down how MCP bridges Figma with tools like Copilot and Cursor, enabling AI to deliver more accurate code with higher design fidelity.

“The goal,” Marcel added, “is to ensure what’s designed is what gets built.” From accessibility to visual consistency, MCP aims to close the gap between intention and implementation—something developers, designers, and product managers can all appreciate.

​Real Advice for a New Generation of Builders
Closing out the session, Marcel offered grounded advice to developers navigating this new AI-infused landscape: “Use the tools. Push their limits. Be curious.” He emphasized that AI fluency is becoming a valuable skill, and that the next wave of talent—AI natives—have a unique opportunity to shape this era.
Whether you're a seasoned engineer, a student, or a curious creative, the takeaway was clear: stay grounded in user needs, embrace emerging tools, and lean into the collaborative spirit that events like RenderATL foster.

TWMT TAKEAWAY:
Jake and Marcel didn’t just share Figma’s roadmap—they helped reframe how we think about building in a post-AI world. At a time when automation is on the rise, this session reminded us that the most valuable code isn’t the fastest—it’s the most human. Design still matters. Empathy still leads. And in this new era, collaboration isn’t just encouraged—it’s essential.

Atlanta is no stranger to influence. From music and film to politics and innovation, the city has long stood as a cultural and creative beacon. At RenderATL, Avoilan Bingham—President of Atlanta Tech Week and General Partner at Drive Capital—took center stage to break down how Atlanta is channeling that same energy to cement its place as a top 5 tech hub in the U.S.

The Vision: Building an Inclusive Tech Ecosystem
Avoilan joined Atlanta Tech Week in early 2024, just as a key report from Boston Consulting Group, Georgia Tech, and the City of Atlanta was released. Titled “Accelerating Entrepreneurship in Atlanta”, the report identified both challenges and immense opportunities. Among them: Atlanta would need to generate around 2,000 new startups a week to compete with leading hubs like Silicon Valley.

But the true magic, as Avoilan emphasized, lies in Atlanta’s people-first approach—rooted in inclusion, community, and culture.

“Atlanta has all the ingredients,” he said, citing the city’s vast pool of Black and Brown tech talent emerging from institutions like Georgia Tech, Spelman, Morehouse, Emory, and Georgia State.

Capital and Community: The Fuel for Builders
Atlanta, while culturally rich, still faces challenges around venture capital access. In 2022-2023, the city saw about $2.2 billion in capital investment—significant, but modest compared to other tech hotspots.

This is where Avoilan’s dual role becomes powerful: As an investor with Drive Capital, he’s not just talking about the future—he’s funding it. Drive has already poured $14 million into local startups since 2022, targeting everything from pre-seed to growth-stage companies. His goal? To bring catalytic capital to visionary builders.

That’s why the theme for this year’s Atlanta Tech Week was simple and bold: “Atlanta Is for Builders.”

“We say builders because that’s who we are,” Avoilan said, proudly displaying his “Builders” jersey—a nod to the city’s culture of creation and hustle.

Events Matter: Why Tech Needs a Vibe
One often-overlooked component of a thriving tech ecosystem? Events. Not just for fun—but for ecosystem connectivity, visibility, and access.

Avoilan pointed out how cities like San Francisco and Miami constantly host industry events that keep their tech communities alive and interconnected. Atlanta, for all its energy, lacked that frequency—until now. Events like RenderATL and Atlanta Tech Week are changing the narrative.

These events are about more than code—they celebrate culture, creativity, and collaboration, showcasing the full Atlanta experience. From panels and fireside chats to the Silicon South Summit, attendees get a taste of what Atlanta is building—both inside and outside of the perimeter.

More Than a Week—A Movement
Atlanta Tech Week is not just an event—it’s a catalyst. One week of programming creates momentum for 52 weeks of transformation.

This year’s programming spanned the city, activating neighborhoods and empowering diverse founders. From emerging techies to seasoned entrepreneurs, everyone was welcomed. The message was clear: Atlanta tech is open to all, especially those ready to build.

Big Names, Bigger Impact
RenderATL and Atlanta Tech Week also drew major backing from corporate players like Google Cloud, Cox Enterprises, Dell, and Collab Capital—a Black-owned venture capital firm that just announced a $75M fund.

This convergence of grassroots energy and big capital signals something powerful: Atlanta is not waiting for permission to lead—it’s already doing it.

Final Thoughts:
Avoilan Bingham closed with a reminder of what makes Atlanta different: “It’s not just about what we’re building—it’s about who we’re building it for.”

​At RenderATL, where culture meets code, one fireside chat brought the heat: "From the Stage to the Boardroom: Leveraging Your Brand to Excel in Different Industries." Moderated by Okla Jones III, Senior Entertainment Editor at Essence Magazine, the conversation featured the unapologetic truth-teller and Grammy-nominated artist David Banner, visionary RenderATL CEO Justin Samuels, and sharp-minded brand strategist Daylon Goff, now Senior Director at Pharrell Williams’ Black Ambition.

This panel wasn’t just a chat — it was a masterclass in legacy-building, personal transformation, and fearless purpose.

David Banner: From the Booth to the Boardroom — Purpose Over Popularity
David Banner took center stage with the conviction of a preacher and the precision of a CEO. When asked how he transitioned from music to business, he flipped the question: “I’ve always had to be a businessman — I just used music as a means to freedom.”

Banner didn’t shy away from calling out the system. He explained how despite inflation in every industry — “even ketchup costs more” — artists are still paid less, especially Black artists. He challenged the audience to stop chasing visibility for clout and start building platforms for liberation:

“Technology is supposed to free you, not box you in. If you’re creating it, ask yourself: are you building to empower others, or are you just trying to be the one holding the whip?”

He challenged tech innovators, creatives, and entrepreneurs in the room to reimagine wealth as a tool for change:

“I want to be a billionaire not to flex, but to buy land, water, and create space where DEI isn’t needed — because we already own the table.”

From calling out false prophets to urging artists to become literate in contracts, Banner reminded everyone that talent without knowledge is a setup:

“You want a record deal but can’t count? Can’t read? How do you expect to win in business when you don’t even understand what you’re signing?”

He didn’t hide his emotional distance from music today — admitting that learning the business side made him fall out of love with the art:

“I don’t even like gospel. I don’t even like Jay. I’m just really good at it. But I thank God media gave me another lane. A chance to make it real for the kids — and pay them right.”

One of the most poignant moments came when he reflected on empathy, respect, and human connection:

“I met Justin Samuels over 10 years ago. I didn’t know who he would become — but I was kind to him. Imagine if I had been rude. I might not even be sitting here today, on his stage.”

Justin Samuels: Building RenderATL From a Hustle to a Hub
Samuels humbly shared his journey from an idea to a multimillion-dollar movement. Building RenderATL took grit, late nights, and a high-performing team that used tools like AI and automation to scale fast — without sacrificing quality or culture.

What set Samuels apart, according to Banner, was authenticity and kindness. “This man dreamed big. And he treated people right while he did it.”

And while balancing a full-time engineering job and leading Render may sound impossible, Samuels offered this grounded mindset:

“80 is greater than 100. Trying to give 100% all the time leads to burnout. Give what you have, consistently — that’s what gets you in the game.”

Daylon Goff: Marketing with Soul and Strategy
Daylon Goff, who has shaped powerhouse brands from Jet to Wingstop, emphasized that community is the true currency:

“You can have 20,000 followers and no real friends. It’s about building real connections.”

Through Black Ambition, Goff helps close funding gaps for Black and brown founders — awarding over $1M annually. His marketing strategy? Make people believe it was their idea to support you:

“The goal is to get my money out of your pocket and make you feel good about it — so good that you get other people to do the same.”

David Banner on HBCUs, Politics, and Real Leadership
Banner’s reflections on his time at Southern University were deeply personal and powerful. Raised by a strong mother who believed in higher education, he entered SU unsure — but left forever changed.

“Southern made me a leader. I was SGA President. It trained me to navigate politics, people, and purpose.”

He also dropped a truth bomb that shook the room:

“Power will never invest in poor people — unless poor people invest in power. Voting isn’t enough. You need to pay for your political representation. And if they don’t serve you, you hold them accountable.”

His stories of signing autographs for hours and intentionally showing love to fans weren’t just anecdotes — they were examples of brand loyalty earned through respect.

Final Takeaways: Build With Heart. Lead With Truth.
This was more than a panel — it was a spiritual, entrepreneurial, and cultural awakening. David Banner reminded us that authenticity, courage, and community should lead every endeavor. Justin Samuels showed what relentless belief and collaboration can build. Daylon Goff revealed the strategy behind connection and culture.

In the words of Banner:

“The greatest lie we were told? That we can’t do this ourselves. We just need to fulfill the prophecy.”

It’s that time again — where tech meets culture in the boldest, most innovative, and community-driven way. RenderATL 2025 is taking over Atlanta from June 11–13, and Trending With Ms Tre is pulling up to capture all the energy, education, and elevation this experience has to offer.

Whether you're a mid-to-senior level tech professional or a culture enthusiast looking to plug in with innovators, creatives, and founders, RenderATL has become the go-to destination. This isn’t your traditional tech conference. RenderATL fuses professional growth, diversity in tech, Black excellence, and unforgettable vibes into a three-day experience unlike anything else.

What to Expect at RenderATL:

🔌 Tech workshops led by industry leaders
💼 Insightful talks and keynotes tailored to growth and leadership
🚀 Startup pitch competitions and career advancement opportunities
🤝 Community networking with dope people from around the world
🎉 Social mixers, nightlife events, and curated after-hours vibes
📲 Full experience through the RenderATL app

🌐 Website: www.RenderAtl.com