Black Americans are twice as likely to be adversely impacted by the disruption of automation technologies such as artificial intelligence, autonomous devices, and the Internet of Things as counterparts of other races and cultures. Over 50% of all service based jobs are occupied by African Americans, though they only comprise 13% of the population in the United States. This disparity presents a mounting concern in an already wide gap in income, wealth, and economic opportunity.
Be Great Foundation Inc., a North Carolina based non-profit organization, was created to address such economic and opportunity disparities by advocating for STEM education, entrepreneurship and equity for underrepresented populations. We offer workshops, trainings, and resources aimed at helping individuals from underrepresented populations gain exposure to the skills of the future, while equipping them to create businesses and seek careers which embrace engineering and technology based approaches and paradigms.
In addition to delivering course content and workshops aimed at helping individuals start and grow technology based businesses and careers, we also raise funds to award scholarships and grants from people in underrepresented communities to participate in STEM camps and enrichment programs, gain STEM based collegiate education, and start and advance STEM businesses. Our 1st flagship fundraising event, the Victory Lap 5K will be held on October 10th, 2020.
At the Be Great Foundation, we also operate The MENT Collaborative, an online mentorship platform for minorities in engineering and technology majors and careers. The goal of The MENT Collaborative is intended to facilitate and foster relationships which helps minorities pursuing engineering or technology degrees or professional roles start or grow their careers. The program partners experienced technology professionals with students and entry-level professionals to provide career advice and ad-hoc guidance on decisions which impact their career.
