The PowerHouse Summer Academy at Morehouse College concluded its two-week immersive experience with an unforgettable celebration of student storytelling, masterclasses from industry leaders, and transformational moments for a group of high school boys from across the country.Founded and Executive Produced by Jash'd Belcher, the PowerHouse Summer Academy is a first-of-its-kind film, content creation, and leadership program for high school young men. With a mission to empower the next generation of storytellers, leaders, and entrepreneurs, the Academy blends rigorous creative training with exposure to world-class mentors and real-world career insight.
This summer's Academy featured masterclasses and mentorship from a powerhouse roster of leaders, including:
- Ruth E. Carter, Academy Award-Winning Costume Designer (Black Panther, Malcolm X)
- Jennifer Davidson, Chief Marketing & Communications Officer of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences
- Kyle Hagler, Founder of No Smoking
- Natalie White, VP of Community Relations, LA Sparks
- Paula Resley, VP of Admissions and Communications, Morehouse College
- Milton Little, President & CEO, United Way of Greater Atlanta
- Mohamed Balla, Chief Financial Officer, City of Atlanta
- Jerome Martine, former manager of Janet Jackson, Tyrese, and Michael B. Jordan
- Rev. Jamal Bryant, Senior Pastor of New Birth Missionary Baptist Church, who delivered an in-person masterclass on leadership, purpose, and social responsibility.
Throughout the program, students attended hands-on workshops in filmmaking and content creation, visited iconic Atlanta destinations-including Six Flags Over Georgia and the Atlanta Dream WNBA Game-and engaged in thought-provoking conversations with Black executives and creatives who shared their journeys, advice, and encouragement.
A standout moment occurred during a private tour and talk at Atlanta City Hall, where Mohamed Balla personally welcomed the students and provided them with a behind-the-scenes look at how the city's $3 billion budget is managed. His message on leadership, responsibility, and excellence left a lasting impact.
To cap off the experience, students premiered their original documentaries and commercials during the PowerHouse Student Film Festival, held on the historic campus of Morehouse College. The festival was graced by the presence of Dr. Stephane Dunn, Chair of the Cinema, Television & Emerging Media Studies (CTEMS) Department at Morehouse College, acclaimed writer, scholar, and filmmaker, who offered powerful reflections on storytelling and legacy. The screening showcased their growth, perspective, and creative expression over the course of two transformative weeks.
"This experience changed all of us," said Jash'd Belcher, founder of HBCU Power and ExecutiveProducer of the PowerHouse Academy. "These young men weren't just learning how to hold a camera. They were learning how to hold themselves accountable to a bigger vision.”
The PowerHouse Summer Academy is powered by HBCU Power, a nonprofit dedicated to expanding access to creative, entrepreneurial, and academic opportunities for underrepresented Youth.
To learn more, visit hbcupower.com or follow @hbcupowerhouseacademy on Instagram.
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