AT&T Dream in Black announced the winners of the 2023 Rising Future Makers Showcase. Cultivated for those making an impact in their communities and on their campuses, the aforementioned annual program empowers the next generation of innovators, while fostering diversity and inclusion in the ever-evolving tech landscape.
“This campaign stands as a powerful embodiment of our unwavering commitment to connecting communities of color to greater possibility through AT&T’s purpose-filled sponsorships,” says Sabina Ahmed, Assistant Vice President of Sponsorships and Experiential at AT&T.
The Rising Future Makers Showcase reflects AT&T’s long-time support of HBCUs and continued commitment to emerge diverse communities. Dream In Black provides access to technology and resources for each class, connecting students to their greater possibilities.
Each student will receive $5,000 presented by AT&T, a 5G-enabled tablet with one year of the mega-corp’s service, among other gifts. They will also gain access to professional workshop opportunities, including mentoring sessions with AT&T executives, to grow their network and further their professional development.
“We are inspired by the overwhelming response to the Rising Future Makers Showcase,” says Michelle Jordan, Chief Diversity Officer. “There is immense hunger for knowledge and opportunity among our youth, and we are humbled by the opportunity to empower the next generation with the support they need to reach their dreams.”
The 2023 Rising Future Makers Showcase saw a 143% increase in submissions from 2022 and extended into new HBCUs, including Howard University, Spelman College, and Prairie View A&M University.
“With Dream In Black and the Rising Future Makers Showcase, we remain dedicated to ensuring that HBCU students aren’t merely heard but are resoundingly celebrated and provided with the tools and resources to foster growth and innovation,” Ahmed says.
Check out the Rising Future Makers Class of 2023:
Bowie State University: Aa’Khai Hollis
Claflin University: Anaiya Whaley
Delaware State University: Elijah Brown
Edward Waters University: Faith Ajumobi, Adeleye Mesogboriwon
Florida A&M University: Ashley Bigbee
Grambling State University: Jordan Braithwaite, Jaylie White, Charlene Vamado
Hampton University: Oluade Swan, Lillian Carr
Howard University: Asia Alexander, Jahmere Stanford Hargraves, Marcus McIntrye, Alana I. Smith, Ka’Nedria Boldin, Harmony Bailey
North Carolina A&T State University: Haley Pender, Marcus Scott
North Carolina Central University: Jessella Gaymon
Prairie View A&M University: Rejoice Adekoya
South Carolina State University: Bailey Scott
Spelman College: Kamina Griffin
Stillman College: Ekhorose Aghahowa
Xavier University of Louisiana: Christian Davis
About Kenyatta: Clark Atlanta University and Medill School alumna Kenyatta Victoria is the Girls United writer covering everything from news, pop culture, lifestyle, and investigative stories. When not reporting, she’s diving deep into her curated playlists or binging her favorite comfort shows.