Ever thought about a career in logistics or the global supply chain but worried about the cost of education? Well, get ready for some exciting news! The Africatown Organization, in collaboration with global logistics giant DHL, has launched a tuition-free trade school aimed at empowering individuals with the skills needed for high-demand careers in these fields.
Introducing the Pollee and Rose Allen School of Logistics & Trade
This incredible initiative is called the Pollee and Rose Allen School of Logistics & Trade. It’s not just about learning; it’s about creating opportunities that have historically been hard to access for many in the community. The school recently kicked off its second semester on September 4, 2025, with a focus on deepening students’ understanding of shipping and the global supply chain.
The program is a partnership between DHL Global Forwarding and Embracing Your Past to Empower Your Future, a nonprofit dedicated to honoring the legacy of enslaved people brought to Mobile, Alabama, on the Clotilda slave ship. The inaugural semester began on February 6, 2025, with six students successfully graduating.
Skills for High-Demand, High-Paying Careers
The free online program features weekly 90-minute courses taught by industry professionals. This hands-on approach gives students a realistic glimpse into the world of logistics and trade. The best part? Many of these jobs don’t even require a college degree, but they do demand specialized skills – skills you can gain right here.
And let’s talk about earning potential: individuals working in this industry have the opportunity to earn six-figure salaries! Beyond the weekly courses, students also benefit from monthly sessions with industry leaders, offering invaluable networking and mentorship opportunities.
Honoring a Legacy, Building a Future
The school is thoughtfully named after Pollee and Rose Allen, survivors of the Clotilda, who were illegally brought to the U.S. in 1860. They, along with 30 other Clotilda survivors, went on to found Africatown, an all-Black community north of Mobile. Veda Robbins, the school administrator and a descendant of Pollee and Rose Allen, shared, ‘This initiative is more than just education—it’s about empowerment and creating opportunities that have historically been out of reach for many in our community.’
Graduates will receive a certificate from DHL Global Forwarding, a significant credential to kickstart their careers. While the program primarily targets individuals aged 16 to 24, older adults looking for a career change are encouraged to apply and may be admitted with special permission.
Are you or someone you know interested in a career in logistics? Visit the Embracing Your Past website to learn more about future enrollment opportunities!