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Tag: Youth Empowerment

  • Shadeira Nesmith Empowers Youth in STEAM

    Imagine a world where every young person, regardless of their background, has the chance to dive into the exciting realms of coding, design, and financial literacy. That’s exactly the vision driving Shadeira Nesmith, a passionate software development instructor and proud Caldwell University alumna. Since 2018, she’s been a guiding force at places like the Library Science Center, Black Girls Code, and Coding Black Females, shaping young minds.

    From Challenges to Purpose-Driven Leadership

    Shadeira’s own journey as a Black woman in tech hasn’t been without its hurdles. She often found herself as one of the few people of color in the room. This experience, however, fueled her determination to not only grow but to lead with a clear sense of purpose. She’s witnessed firsthand the eagerness of students to learn from her and the spark of possibility that ignites when they see what they can achieve.

    This realization profoundly shaped her approach to education. “Being a tech educator has shown me how eager people are to learn from me and how excited they are to see what’s possible for themselves. This has changed how I lead and create,” Nesmith shared. It’s this insight that led her to establish Stacked Up Academy in 2021.

    Stacked Up Academy: Building Futures

    Stacked Up Academy is on a mission to ignite K-12 interest in computer science, graphic design, and financial literacy. Through thoughtfully crafted curricula, engaging workshops, and innovative educational products, the academy aims to significantly increase participation from underserved communities in STEAM fields. The goal? To foster early exposure that paves the way for success in higher education and future careers.

    StackCon: A Conference for Young Innovators

    The academy’s commitment to hands-on learning was evident at StackCon, a dynamic two-day conference held in Jersey City, NJ, on August 8-9. Designed for youth ages 8 to 15, the event featured over 10 workshops led by seven instructors. Attendees explored a wide array of topics, including tech and coding, graphic design, financial literacy, music and AI, cyber safety, gaming, and LEGO engineering.

    Nesmith’s teaching philosophy is all about creating an inclusive and inspiring environment. “I see myself as someone who makes space, especially for young people, to step into tech with confidence. I want my students, no matter their age, to know that learning is not only accessible but also enjoyable,” she told AFROTECH™. Her approach emphasizes an open mind, nurturing curiosity, and helping learners connect knowledge to their own lives.

    Empowerment Through Education

    What truly drives Nesmith is the belief that education is more than just skill-building; it’s about expanding horizons and showing young people what’s truly possible. “What has shaped my path most is the belief that education is not just about building skills but also about expanding what people believe is possible, by showing kids that they can bring their ideas to life whether that be through coding, design, or entrepreneurship,” she explained. Her leadership is firmly rooted in empowerment and making a tangible impact.

    Shadeira at AFROTECH™ Conference

    You’ll have the chance to hear more from Shadeira Nesmith at the upcoming AFROTECH™ Conference! Returning to Houston’s George R. Brown Convention Center from October 27-31, the event promises to be a hub for innovation, featuring leaders like Nesmith. “For me, AFROTECH™ is all about growth and impact. I consider myself a lifelong student, so I’m always eager to learn and share knowledge…That transformation where learning something and using it to create real change is what makes AFROTECH™ so good, and why I’m honored to be part of it,” she shared.

    Are you inspired by Shadeira Nesmith’s work? What are your thoughts on increasing youth representation in STEAM fields? Share your insights in the comments below!

  • The Weeknd Joins ‘WAY’ Campaign

    Global music sensation The Weeknd is stepping into a new role, joining the ‘WAY’ (Who Are You?) campaign. This initiative, aimed at empowering youth to redefine career success beyond traditional paths, has partnered with The Weeknd’s “After Hours Til Dawn” tour for its Atlanta stop at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. It’s a powerful collaboration designed to inspire the next generation.

    Redefining Career Success with ‘WAY’

    The ‘WAY’ campaign is a partnership between Stand Together, a philanthropic community focused on addressing issues like racial and socioeconomic disparities, and Dream Studios. The project’s core mission is to encourage young people to explore diverse career options through a non-traditional lens. La Mar Taylor, creative director and founder of XO Records and No More Dreams Studio, highlighted the campaign’s goal: “to help young people and society at large imagine what career success can look like.”

    Taylor emphasized that the partnership aims to dismantle outdated narratives surrounding education and achievement, instead uplifting stories driven by passion, purpose, and possibility. This approach encourages a broader understanding of success, moving beyond conventional definitions.

    Interactive Experiences and Inspiring Voices

    Leading up to The Weeknd’s August 21st concert in Atlanta, attendees had the opportunity to visit a “WAY Station” video booth. This interactive space invited concertgoers to reflect on their unique qualities and aspirations. The campaign also features inspiring video messages from influential ‘WAY influencers,’ including rapper Killer Mike, Melissa Proctor (Executive Vice President and CMO of the Atlanta Hawks and State Farm Arena), Virgin Group founder Richard Branson, and tech innovator Iddris Sandu.

    Colette Weintraub, head of Stand Together Music, Sports & Entertainment, stressed the campaign’s importance in challenging societal norms. “The prevailing belief in society has many believing there is one path to success, and success looks a certain way,” she explained. “WAY is intended to give people social permission… We want people to know they can define their own pathways to success, and there is more than one pathway. Most importantly, what success looks like is up to you.”

    The ‘WAY Station’ video experience is being featured at each U.S. tour stop, with upcoming concerts in Tampa, Houston, San Antonio, and Indianapolis, concluding in New York City on September 27th. This initiative ensures that the message of redefining success reaches a wide audience.

    What does career success mean to you? Share your thoughts and aspirations in the comments below!

  • Ciara Opens Atlanta Dance Studio for Youth

    Get ready, Atlanta! Our very own Grammy-winning superstar Ciara is giving back to the city that shaped her in a major way. On what’s officially recognized as “Ciara Day” in Atlanta, she returned home to cut the ribbon on a brand new dance studio, all set to empower and uplift the city’s young talent.

    A Space for Dreams and Expression

    This exciting new venture is located right inside the John H. Harland Boys & Girls Club in Atlanta’s West End. It’s not just any studio; it’s the very first Why Not You Foundation Center in Atlanta! Ciara, alongside her husband, NFL quarterback Russell Wilson, co-founded this nonprofit with a powerful mission: to inspire and empower the next generation.

    For Ciara, this studio is so much more than just a place to learn steps. It’s envisioned as a vibrant hub where kids can build unshakable confidence, freely explore the art of movement, and forge meaningful connections with their peers. It’s about creating a safe and inspiring environment for them to grow.

    Ciara’s Vision for Impact

    Ciara herself shared her heartfelt thoughts on this milestone, posting on Instagram, “Thank you to the State and City for officially declaring July 28th, CIARA DAY. It’s my mission to continually make this a day of impact! Every child deserves a space to dream, create, and be seen. And this is just the beginning.”

    She emphasizes that dance has always been a powerful tool for self-expression for her, providing energy, confidence, and a way to connect with others. This studio aims to pass those same benefits onto Atlanta’s youth.

    Investing in Atlanta’s Future

    By pouring resources and passion into this initiative, Ciara is demonstrating a deep commitment to her hometown. She’s using her incredible platform to uplift Atlanta’s youth and create a positive, lasting impact that will resonate for years to come. It’s truly inspiring to see artists invest back into their communities!

    What do you think about Ciara’s new dance studio initiative? Share your thoughts in the comments below!