FROM HBCU TO HOLLYWOOD: UNVEILING THE POWER OF NETWORKING IN EFOC 2024 (927 hits)
At the 2024 ESSENCE Festival of Culture, a prominent panel titled "EFOC 2024: The HBCU To Hollywood Discussion Highlighted The Power Of Connection" brought together distinguished HBCU alumni Lance Gross, Terrence J, Luke Lawal, and Jahliel Thurman. This panel delved into how their formative experiences at Historically Black Colleges and Universities laid the groundwork for their successful careers in Hollywood.
The conversation underscored the resurgence of HBCUs in popular culture and their pivotal role in shaping future leaders through economic empowerment, community connections, and social development. Each panelist shared personal insights into how their HBCU education provided them not only with academic knowledge but also invaluable networking opportunities and a strong sense of community.
Brotherhood was a recurring theme, with Gross (a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.) and Lawal (a member of Omega Psi Phi) emphasizing the profound support and camaraderie they received from their fraternity brothers. Terrence J echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of having a network of "Omega Men" who support each other professionally and personally.
The panelists discussed how their HBCU connections facilitated entry into the competitive world of Hollywood, citing instances where alumni in influential positions opened doors for them. Lawal, founder of HBCU Buzz, stressed the importance of persistence, noting that rejection merely signifies a temporary setback on the path to success.
Overall, the discussion illuminated how HBCUs continue to nurture diverse talents and equip students with the resilience and networking skills needed to thrive in various industries, including entertainment. The panelists' stories served as a testament to the transformative power of HBCUs in shaping successful careers and fostering enduring connections that transcend college life.
