Empowering The Future: AT&T’s Rising Future Makers And The Path To Tech Inclusivity

AT&T recently announced the selection of the 2023 Class of Rising Future Makers — 25 Historically Black College and University (HBCU) students who have a positive influence on their campuses and in their communities. Each student receives a $5000 scholarship, an AT&T tablet, and access to a variety of mentoring opportunities and other tech resources in the coming year. The program, which happens annually, is focused on empowering the “next generation of innovators, while fostering diversity and inclusion in the ever-evolving tech landscape.”

Diversifying tech is essential to the future of the nation, but there is a lot of work to be done. Whereas Black people make up 12% of the overall workforce, according to a report by McKinsey, they only make up 8% of the tech staff. And, according to the same research study, “That percentage is even smaller further up the corporate ladder; just 3 percent of technology executives in the C-suite are Black.” Research also demonstrates that the gap in diversity in tech will likely grow bigger over the next decade. Across tech jobs in software development, engineering, data science, and cybersecurity, which are expected to grow by 14% by 2032, Black talent is only projected to grow 8% over the same time.

Michelle Jordan, Chief Diversity Officer, at AT&T shared, "At AT&T, purpose is woven into our DNA to ensure that we are creating opportunities that not only celebrate, but support the brilliance found within historically underrepresented voices. Our Dream In Black platform serves as a real conduit for change, a force that breaks down barriers, and a celebration of the undeniable success found within Black communities - specifically HBCU students, through the Rising Future Makers Showcase.” She added, “ Our goal is to provide resources and opportunities that connect them to greater possibility and equip them on their individual journeys to become the best versions of themselves, as they continue to shape the future of the communities around them.”

Adeleye Mesogboriwon, one of the Rising Future Makers, is a senior business and computer information systems major at Edward Waters University in Jacksonville, Florida. According to Mesogboriwon, “Receiving this recognition is a personal reminder to me that my community is not too small for me to make a change.” He is excited that AT&T is recognizing him and other future makers at this young age so that they can keep the fire burning within them, fostering innovation in tech and beyond.

Rejoice Adekoya, a sophomore nursing major at Texas-based Prairie View A&M University, is also one of the Rising Future Makers. Adekoya stated, “This recognition is not just another moment for me but a validation of collective effort and a catalyst for continued excellence.” Being a part of the program serves as a source of encouragement for Adekoya, helping her to persist as a student and beyond. She’s particularly excited about using the recognition as a platform to inspire others and to fuel her passion for becoming a doctor. With an ultimate goal of creating her own practice in a low-income area, Adekoya wants to “make a meaningful and lasting impact in disadvantaged communities.”

Spelman College (Atlanta, GA) junior Kamina Griffin is an economics and women’s studies major. She is also one of this year’s Rising Future Makers. Griffin shared that being part of the Makers means she can continue to have an impact on the community around her but with a larger platform. According to Griffin, “I have the honor of being the first person from Spelman College, and I get to represent my HBCU. The other delightful part of this journey is that I am partaking in it with twenty-four young, Black, current, and future leaders who will also become my family.” The potential for camaraderie and support among the Rising Future Makers is highly important to Griffin.

This year’s Rising Future Makers also include: Aa’Khai Hollis (Bowie State University), Anaiya Whaley (Claflin University), Elijah Brown (Delaware State University), Faith Ajumobi (Edward Waters University), Ashley Bigbee (Florida A&M University), Jordan Braithwaite, Jaylie White, Charlene Vamado (Grambling State University) Oluade Swan, Lillian Carr (Hampton University), Asia Alexander, Jahmere Stanford Hargraves, Marcus McIntrye, Alana I. Smith, Ka’Nedria Boldin, Harmony Bailey (Howard University), Haley Pender, Marcus Scott (North Carolina A&T State University) Jessella Gaymon (North Carolina Central University), Bailey Scott (South Carolina State University), Ekhorose Aghahowa (Stillman College), and Christian Davis (Xavier University of Louisiana).

All of the Rising Future Makers demonstrate a commitment to community both on their HBCU campuses and in the communities in which they operate. AT&T is investing in them with the hope that they will continue this commitment as they graduate and move forward with their careers.