An HBCU education is truly a privilege. It provides a priceless atmosphere for students of color to receive a solid education while instilling unapologetic confidence. In the current national climate of heightened racial tensions, a volatile political environment, and an impression that most are only out to help themselves, we are thrilled to celebrate how 30 passionate young minds took their HBCU foundation and made history.
Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) produce more than a quarter of all African-American graduates in the country and are responsible for producing many of the nation’s black leaders. Iconic civil rights leaders, doctors, religious leaders, bankers, writers, Olympians, lawyers, musicians, engineers, actors, humanitarians, professional athletes, educators, scientists, and politicians have been educated at HBCUs.
Every year, the HBCU Top 30 Under 30 honors talented young men and women who are making remarkable strides in a variety of industries including sports, STEM, entertainment, media, business, public service and fashion. Among this year’s nominees are a star female rapper, an agile NFL quarterback, a community activist bringing fresh produce to the inner city, and a viral YouTube influencer. Check out the former classes here.
This year, with a record-breaking amount of nominations, we are exceptionally proud to present the 5th HBCU Top 30 Under 30 class. Congratulations to the young leaders who have been recognized, and congratulations to the esteemed HBCUs that have indisputably provided a strong and lasting foundation for the leaders of today and tomorrow.
Jayla Koriyan Watson | University of Maryland Eastern Shore
Jayla Koriyan is a successful YouTuber who started out with a desire to document her college experience. Now, she’s a businesswoman who has endeavors in beauty, hair, and even a book. Jayla is best known for her YouTube page Life with Jayla. She has amassed over 300,000 avid subscribers. Her videos span from beauty and clothes hauls to lifestyle discussions.
Koriyan starting out at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore and decided she should chronicle her life in a vlog series. During the summer of her junior year she flew to New York and attended the Fashion Institute of Technology, a dream of hers. By the time she was in her senior year, Jayla launched launched her virgin hair company called GlamTextures.
Pretty & Educated is a book Koriyan wrote to chronicle her journey of going from college student to content creator. It features lessons she has learned the hard way. She also shares how it’s possible to make $10,000 a month creating content on YouTube. That book has since been succeeded by her new book Pretty & Paid. Follow Jayla Koriyan on YouTube, Instagram, and Twitter.
Tishauna Wilson | Florida A&M University
Tishauna Wilson is a Tampa-born Computer Science student at FAMU, nicknamed the “Next Black Female Mark Zuckerberg.”
Tishauna discovered an affinity for STEM early on in her childhood. We had the chance to repair computers. She learned how to code in HTML and repair computers by high school as a student top 2% of her class. In 2016, Tishauna started attending Florida A&M University to learn programming in C++.
Since going to college, she has continued to research and learn more. She previous research has covered detecting credit-card fraud, detecting fraud in conversations, and developing a voice-activated, self-driving drone, and a basketball referee system. While interning at JPMorgan Chase & Co. as a Software Engineer, she has practiced updating a current software with newer technology using Java, Spring Boot, SQL, and Toad.
She recently won a $10,000 McDonald’s HBCU Forward Scholarship at the McDonald’s 365Black Awards at the McDonald’s 365Black Awards for developing tech-based programs at FAMU. The scholarship was funded by the Thurgood Marshall College Fund. She was honored alongside successful women like Sheryl Lee Ralph, political commentator Symone D. Sanders, and Black Girls CODE CEO Kimberly Bryant.
Ironically, however, she initially considered pursuing a degree and career in the entertainment industry. She thought she wanted to become a music producer and a film director. When that didn’t click for her, she found her passion in pursuing computer science. Follow Tishauna Wilson on Instagram and Twitter.
Olympia Auset | Howard University
Olympia Auset is an LA native on a mission to eliminate racial inequality in LA through improved food access. At Howard University, Olympia connected her steady fast food diet as a child in LA to political and systemic racism. Historically, neighborhoods with mostly black and brown members are filled with plenty of fast food restaurants and liquor stores, while the quality grocery stores with fresh produce tend to be plentiful in white neighborhoods. Low access to healthy food is a direct contributor to conditions like obesity and life expectancy.
SÜPRMARKT, a pop-up grocery store offering low-cost, organic foods, is her first step in solving the problem. People in various south Los Angeles communities come to Olympia’s store to choose from an all-organic and affordable selection of fruits and vegetables. The communities she serves can often be described as food deserts. She buys wholesale and imperfect-appearing produce to keep prices low. A few times a month, she brings the SÜPRMARKT to community centers and parks across areas like Leimert Park and Crenshaw YMCA. She also offers a produce delivery service that will do drop-offs for about $100 a month.
Auset and her team have also launched the nonprofit SÜPRSEED, an effort to fund the SÜPRMARKT mission. Financially, SÜPRMARKT breaks even for Olympia. Any donations or grants to SÜPRSEED will improve the outreach, help the food get into more hands, and keep prices down.
Even with her pop-up and nonprofit, Olympia still isn’t done. She serves as a trailblazer behind the scenes as a board member of Co+opportunity. Co-ops are locally-owned markets that serve as the go-to place for people to access quality healthy and affordable food. On the board Olympia ensures that operations align with organization’s policy. She also serves on the production team for The Shine Movement. Follow Olympia Auset’s work on Instagram and Twitter.
Kayla White | North Carolina A&T University
Kayla White is one of the fastest women in the nation. She put North Carolina A&T University on the map when she ran the world’s fastest indoor 200-meter sprint earlier this year. While at the University of Arkansas’ 2019 Tyson Invitational, she crossed the finish line in 22.82 seconds, easily surpassing another student’s 23.07.
Her place as a world record-breaker was almost expected after so many other preceding accomplishments. During last season’s MEAC outdoor track championships, Kayla won gold in the 100 and 200-meter dashes, the 100-meter hurdles and the 4×100.
Kayla is definitely brings a sense of pride to her NC A&T family. In 2017 she won NC A&T’s Female Athlete of the Year Award. She has also broken her school’s records in the 60-meter hurdles, and is ranked top 10 in the 60-meter hurdles and 60-meter dash.
Kayla White has left quite the legacy as an athlete at North Carolina A&T, and we can’t wait to see what she does next! Follow Kayla White on Instagram.
Megan “Megan Thee Stallion” Pete | Texas Southern University
Megan Thee Stallion is a sizzling Houston rapper who is still actively working on her degree in Health Administration at Texas Southern University full time in between gigs. An early passion for music can be attributed to her mother, Holly-Wood. Megan would often be with her in the studio growing up. She learned how to write music in her childhood, rapping over the instrumentals of her mom’s tracks. It may seem like she came up fast after only rapping professionally for 2 years. The truth is she’s been preparing for this all her life.
Standing at 5’10’’, Meg is bold. She is unapologetic. She’s completely aware of how women can get overlooked in the industry. Not only to female rappers have to worker harder to get even get recognized. Her tactic of letting the work speak for itself has worked. In 2017 she dropped her EP Make It Hot. She also dropped the popular Tina Snow mixtape, a spin on the late Pimp C’s Tony Snow. In November 2018 she signed to 300 Entertainment, which houses other rappers like Tee Grizzley and Young Thug.
In between the performances and homework, she planning for her next move to be a philanthropic one. After graduation she wants to open assisted living homes in Houston. She sees it as a way to help employ her fellow classmates with degrees in healthcare. HBCUs were created for black students who studied hard but still made time to give back. Through her success Megan is truly the epitome of black excellence. Follow Megan Thee Stallion on Instagram and Twitter.
Tytus Howard | Alabama State University
Tytus Howard is a successful football athlete from Monroeville, Alabama. In April 2019 he was chosen by the Houston Texans as No. 23 pick overall in this year’s NFL Draft.
The beginning of Tytus Howard’s story can largely be attributed to his mom in more ways than one. His mother reached out to the head coach of Alabama State University hoping they would give her son a chance. It worked. After being given a chance to prove himself, Tytus was allowed as a walk-on for Alabama State University. By working hard his entire freshman year, he turned that opportunity into a full ride scholarship.
Tytus is unique in having successfully played several positions in football. In high school he was a quarterback. By the time he walked on to the Alabama State Hornets team, he was a tight end. He was recently drafted into the NFL, but as a tackle. As he enters the professional stage of his football career, Tytus will have to shine while guarding one of the best quarterbacks drafted into the NFL. Follow Tytus Howard on Instagram and Twitter.
Mariah Jasmine | Hampton University
Mariah Jasmine is a star dancer from Newark, Delaware. She has gained viral popularity with her dance moves on social media. She has nearly 700 subscribers on her YouTube channel.
Her accomplishments are vast and span several platforms. She has performed in music videos, showcases, and even at the esteemed Apollo Theater in New York. She has professional training in hip-hop, ballet, jazz, contemporary, and dance in heels. Her dancing style could be described as energetic, sharp, and mesmerizing.
Mariah’s dancing skills have allowed her to travel all over the world, train youth, and teach choreography that involves dancers wearing heels. Mariah is currently signed to MSA Agency as an LA based dancer. Follow Mariah Jasmine on Instagram and Twitter.
Ehijele E. Olumese | Hampton University
Ehijele E. Olumese is a Los Angeles-based Cyber Security Engineer from Largo, Maryland. Although he still does work with top-tier companies, he also founded his own cyber security company.
Elijele started his education studying Computer Science at Hampton University. His next move was obtaining his Masters in Information Security, Policy, and Management from Carnegie Mellon University. He started studying law at Southwestern College in LA, and will go on to receive his law degree in 2020 from Georgetown Law School. He holds several certifications including for the Information System Security (CISSP) and Ethical Hacker Certification (CEH).
Elijele has taken his talents to some very esteemed companies. In his current role as Senior Cyber Security Engineer with The MITRE Corporation, he is leading a $1.7 billion-dollar development effort. His team of engineers are performing vulnerability and risk assessments on the United States military’s next generation of GPS receivers, checking that they comply with federal regulations. Prior to that role, Ehijele worked with the Department of Homeland Security, Carnegie Mellon University and more.
The world is so dependent on technology, a trend that won’t slow down anytime soon. Olumese’s company The Cyber Security Intellects was created to make cyber security more palatable to the public by connecting technology and pop culture. Those at the company strive to engage and educate the public, as well as inspiring the next generation of cyber security professionals. Ehijele hopes to use his expertise to promote public awareness and interest in the importance of cyber security and data privacy. Follow Ehijele E. Olumese on Instagram and Twitter.
Jarren Small | Prairie View A&M University
Jarren Small is a visionary alum of Prairie View A&M University. Hailing from Missouri City, Texas, he has combined his love for communications and community service to truly leave an impact. He has gone on to found a non-profit dedicated to community service and events.
By the time he was in high school, Jarren was accepted to a broadcast media academy. There he learned invaluable skills spanning video footage, commercials, Public Service Announcements, and even the professional software Final Cut Pro. Jarren went on to become a model student at PVAMU. In addition to his studies, he found a way to actively improve his student body as well. Jarren was elected Student Government Association President for the 2011-2012 school year. He majored in Mass Communication, and minored in Marketing. Always on a mission, he fostered relationships with the mayor of Houston and Houston Television (HTV) as well.
Jarren now supports his Houston community through his 501(c) non-profit Legends Do Live (LDL), supports youth ages 13-25 and has a three-part program plan. One is community restoration, encouraging youth success through assemblies, tutoring, and college seminars. LDL monetarily invests in the needs of impoverished communities and schools. Jarren emphasizes the importance of reinvesting into your hometown. He feels the Houston community has done so much for him as a child, and now he pays it forward. Smalls has said he wants the world to know that anything is possible once you have a positive mindset. Follow Jarren Small on Instagram and Twitter.
Jahylin McKee | Savannah State University
Jahylin McKee is a young entrepreneur with her own boutique public relations and strategic marketing agency. She is from Lawrenceville, Georgia.
Jahylin was a star student while at Savannah State University. She served on campus as student orientation leader, a Tiger ambassador and a peer tutor. She gained the skills needed to start her business by majoring in mass communications with a concentration in public relations. Jahylin was crowned Miss Savannah State during her senior year. After graduation, she decided to take a chance and pursue her biggest dreams. She had always wanted to be a celebrity publicist. She moved to New York after college and has since done very well for herself.
Jahylin is the founder and CEO of J.McKee & Co. The agency leads development of brands in the industries of entertainment, music, lifestyle and fashion. The company also offers services in public relations, promotions, social media, and publicity campaigns. Jahylin has worked with iconic companies and brands. Among the list are Calvin Klein, BET, HOT 97, VH1, New York Fashion Week, and more. Her most transferable role was as the social media manager for music entertainer, Remy Ma. Where she truly learned how to use a brand’s strength to leverage success. While J. McKee & Co. brings a lot to the table, their specialty is brand exposure and social media marketing. Follow Jahylin McKee on Instagram and Twitter.
Brittany Garrett | Morgan State University
Brittany Garrett is a plus size model, body positive advocate, and motivational speaker from Harlem. She created the Dear Fat Girl brand to continue her efforts on body positivity.
Brittany has lived through a very challenging past, which is perhaps why she works so hard to encourage others. She has withstood foster care and various forms of abuse. She is incredibly resilient. While at Morgan State University, she was eager to be involved in leadership. She served on e-boards for the Caribbean Students Association, National Council of Negro Women, and more.
Brittany has continued her studies since majoring in Speech Communication at Morgan State. Recently, in 2018, Brittany graduated with her Master of Science in Human Service Administration, with a concentration in Non-profit Management. She has worked in as a Human Services professional for over 7 years.
Garrett once shared that Morgan State allowed her the irreplaceable experience of seeing the black community positively working and doing service. Ultimately, she was inspired to found the Dear Fat Girl brand. She encourages women to accept their bodies unapologetically, and support them through events, mentorship, and workshops. She spends much of her time supporting college students, who can often feel overwhelmed and depressed.
Garrett now travels to different schools sharing her message of self-acceptance as a motivational speaker. She was a special guest speaker at Morgan State’s annual Morgan Girls Rock Conference, at John Hopkins University for the National Love Your Body Day, at Howard University, and more. Follow Brittany Garrett on Instagram and Twitter.
Halle Deneen | Howard University
Halle Deneen is a flourishing plus size model, TV host, and entrepreneur who attended Howard University. She is a Dorothy Combs Model, one of the most respected plus model agencies in the world. She is also the CEO of luxury virgin hair brand HDLUX.
Halle has graced plenty stellar events and spreads. She has modeled for high-end companies such as Ashley Stewart, Savage x Fenty, and Lala Anthony’s collection. She has worked the red carpet for the NAACP Image Awards as a host with Terrence J. She has also hosted the Wearable Art Gala, which honored Beyoncé and Gloria Carter.
Deneen doesn’t hold her skills all to herself. She hosts “To Be A Model” classes in to coach others the ropes of modeling. She discusses the different types of modeling opportunities, casting calls, runway coaching, and the importance of confidence.
Becoming a plus size model wasn’t easy for Halle, and many discouraged her because of her size. Nevertheless, she has persevered and created a lane for herself. Now that she’s successful, she uses her platform to draw attention to the lack of diversity in regards to plus size and black models and work toward inclusion. When reflecting on the impact Howard has left on her, Deneen had plenty to say. “It has a way of making us go-getters… Howard gave me the confidence to voice myself, network with people, and to never stop dreaming. Howard made me fearless!” Follow Halle Deneen on Instagram and Twitter.
Phillip Walker II | Morehouse College
When Phillip Walker II was 7, he tried to operate on his goldfish and told his parents he wanted to be a surgeon. Now, he is a student in healthcare who is closer than ever to becoming a neurosurgeon.
Phillips received his degree in Biology from Morehouse College. Even his club activities contributed to his healthcare goals. He created an AUC-wide chapter Nu Rho Psi (National Honor Society in Neuroscience), and did research at the National Institute of Health. He even represented Morehouse at the Omicron Delta Kappa leadership honor society’s national convention in 2014.
He is now 3 years into his 7-year MD/PhD dual degree program at Wright State University. His Ph.D is toward a Doctor of Philosophy in Neuroscience & Physiology. Walker is a recipient of two Wright State – Boonshoft School of Medicine scholarships. The scholarships contribute to Walker’s ability to attend school full time.
Walker continues to gain experience in medicine even in addition to his studies. He currently leads as president of his medical school class. He has traveled to remote destinations like the Bahamas, Cuba, and Uganda. Doing so has allowed him to observe and understand how other cultures practice of neurosurgery in other areas of the world. Phillip has even made time to mentor students ranging in age from high school to graduate school. Phillip is someone who is dedicated to his craft and continues lift others up as he climbs. Follow Phillip Walker II on Instagram and Twitter.
Herberto Horne | Morehouse College
Herberto Horne, affectionately known as Berto, is an entrepreneur hailing from Detroit Michigan.
When Berto arrived to Morehouse College in 2011, he was impressed by the way the students carried themselves. His desire to embody a man who was educated, socially conscious, and well-dressed too lead him to create TPGent, also known as The Perfect Gentleman. Through his brand, Herberto is able to teach other young men the jewels of self-development.
TPGent is now a full-fledged company focused on outreach and support. Herberto travels nationwide to share his message with schools, universities, and even Fortune 500 companies. The discussions engages men and boys on how present themselves in both formal and informal settings, which includes being well-dressed and speaking well.
TPGent has also served as a brand ambassador to companies including Mercedes-Benz, Crown Royal, Ciroc, Frederick Benjamin Grooming, the High Museum of Art and more. Follow Herberto Horne on Instagram and Twitter.
Derrick “Izzy The DJ” Isabell | Norfolk State University
Izzy the DJ, a Norfolk State University alum, is one of the hottest djs on the hip hop side of the music industry.
Born Derrick Isabell but nicknamed “Izzy,” he began working the turntables because he was inspired by his dj cousins. By high school he was getting paid to dj for birthday parties and basketball games.
Izzy has amassed plenty of awards and partnerships. He has been named Top 5 Campus DJ of the Year, Top 5 HBCU DJ of the Year, and Salute the DJ Award’s Club DJ of the Year. He is sponsored by the popular Belaire Rose of Sovereign Brands.
Izzy the DJ has worked with a lengthy list of recognizable names. Artists on that list include Future, Migos, Megan Thee Stallion, DJ Drama, Rae Sremmurd, Teyana Taylor, 21 Savage, Lil Baby, YFN Lucci and more. These collaborations include breaking some hit records. He has also worked with notable athletes like John Wall, Chad Ochocinco Johnson, and Allen Iverson. Follow Izzy the DJ on Instagram and Twitter.
Shawn Etape | Bowie State University
Shawn Etape is a Bowie State University alum that hustles as both an entrepreneur and an engineer. Shawn has managed multi-million dollar accounts for companies like Metro Star Systems and SITA.
8 years of experience in Information Technology. He has 7 years of Database Administration experience, which includes ensuring production and development environments are secure for Oracle’s databases.
Shawn’s endeavors have not stopped at engineering, no matter how challenging it may be. He created his ETAPE Water business to offer a unique way for consumers to hydrate. The water is purified through a reverse osmosis procedure. ETAPE provides an innovative approach to how consumers select and perceive their water intake. ETAPE is natural, crisp, and pollutant free. appeal exceeds the expectations of pure water while supporting the universal mission of an authentically clean environment.
ETAPE is more than a brand, going beyond providing premium water. While acknowledging that 700 million people lack an adequate water source, the company strives to bridge that gap by bringing their high quality water to areas in need. Follow Shawn Etape on Instagram and Twitter.
Cornell W. Jones | Winston-Salem State University
Cornell W. Jones is an entertainment powerhouse now serving as host and producer of the OffSCenter, a segment on SportsCenter. He also does voice-overs of College Basketball Billboards on ESPN, in addition to being the Associate Producer on the Features Unit.
At Winston-Salem State University Cornell displayed an ability to excel in both academics and social endeavors. Majoring in Mass Communications was a choice that prepared him for his later work in entertainment. He made the Dean’s list for seven semesters in a row. He lead the WSSU cross country team to their 2010 CIAA Championship and was also on the track & field team. Jones served as Mr. WSSU during the 2010-2011 school year and was also chosen as Mr. HBCU in 2011.
Cornell has lead over 50 coveted interviews on OffSCenter. He has spoken to athletes like NFL cornerback Richard Sherman, WNBA forward Candace Parker, and NFL linebacker Von Miller. He has also spoken to entertainers like Kevin Hart, Ice Cube, and Mark Wahlburg.
As Associate Producer, Cornell has lead features with Floyd Mayweather, power couple Gabrielle Union and Dwyane Wade, The British Open, Northwestern University, and more. Follow Cornell on Instagram and Twitter.
Anthony Driver, Jr. | Howard University
Anthony Driver Jr. is making tremendous strides in the political realm. Recently he garnered a lot of attention by running as candidate for Chicago’s 20th Ward Aldermanic. As a fourth generation resident of the 20th Ward, Driver made it his business to strengthen his community. At 25, Driver was the youngest person of fifteen to run for the position.
He has been tenacious in his quest to help his community through politics. As a student at Howard University he majored in Political Science. Anthony was prepared for Howard before classes even started. The summer before his freshman year, he won the 2011 Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year award.
Because Howard is in the nation’s capital, it was the perfect opportunity for him to network with congressional and business leaders. These conversations with them ranging from minimum wage to the voters act sparked Anthony’s interest in activism and policy. Anthony was even selected as a public service intern for the Chicago Mayor’s Office of Public Engagement.
Driver soon began to work with the Estell Group, significant for being the first and only national government relations firm owned by a woman of color D.C. His work was concentrated on funding for HBCUs, educational policy, and strategic branding.
Here he was tasked with working directly with constituents and ensuring that the wants and needs of all Chicagoans were heard at the highest level of municipal government. Anthony has a passion for politics and community organizing, and his past body of work reflects his interest. At the national level Anthony has worked on several senatorial and congressional campaigns. His efforts have even gotten him invited to the White House. Anthony Driver will continue to serve his community and seek a spot in public office. Whether serving constituents in Chicago or serving students, he vows to better himself and the conditions of those who look like him. Follow Anthony on Instagram and Twitter.
Meaghan Taylor | Florida A&M University
Meaghan “Meag” Taylor is known as an on-air radio personality and founder of Women In Radio. But that’s nowhere near the end of her responsibilities. She currently works in Miami, serving as a fill-in producer for iHeart Radio, and board operator for news talk radio station 610 WIOD. She is also a social media instructor for The Connecticut School of Broadcasting.
Meaghan’s college experience at Florida A&M University was very pivotal in shaping her broadcast career path. She had initially planned to pursue a career in television news. In her junior year, however, she found herself at an interest meeting for the school’s WANM 90.5FM station and has been doing radio ever since. Working in the drive-time slot, she grew in popularity for her ability to identify current talent and trends. She ultimately majoring in Broadcast Journalism.
After FAMU, many thought she would easily get a job in commercial radio, but that wasn’t the case. Without a mentor or understanding loved ones, she ultimately felt unprepared. Meaghan went on to found Women In Radio to stop other women from feeling the same way. It gives women aspiring to be successful in radio resources such as job and internship posts. There is currently a store-front that offers classes with even more information. It also highlights and honors successful women in the radio industry.
Each year, Women In Radio hosts is a big event for the women to network. In March 2019 Taylor hosted an intimate sold-out event in NYC featuring panelists like Angela Yee of the Breakfast Club. Women can often face sexual harassment and a resistance to accept diversity in the industry’s boys club. Invaluable events like this allow for the women to discuss their experiences in a safe space.
Taylor’s most recent endeavor is creating the branch Women in Radio Gives Inc. Meaghan is looking forward to offering scholarships through the nonprofit. Ultimately, her Women In Radio idea has left an incredible impact, while only being three years old. The radio industry will undoubtedly be filled with more networking, education, mentorship, and support to come. Follow Meaghan Taylor on Instagram and Twitter.
Ambria Berksteiner | Spelman College
Ambria Berksteiner is a stellar Industrial Engineer who in 2017 was crowned Miss Black Savannah USA. As Miss Black Savannah, Ambria represented the city at the 2017 Miss Black Georgia USA Scholarship Pageant. Despite the chance to represent the whole state of Georgia, the pageant also held the possibility of academic scholarship award to help continue her educational endeavors.
Ambria’s passion for STEM has been reflected in her education and activities. She completed an ambitious Dual Degree in Engineering and Mathematics from Spelman College. She is currently working on her Master of Science in Industrial and Systems Engineering at Auburn University. She is planning to continue her education with a PhD.
Ambria has also worked to ensure that others have access to learning about STEM as well. She created Operation: Changing the World One STEM at a Time to mentor young African American girls who are interested in STEM-related careers. The program features visual arts to encourage creativity and make STEM more appealing for the students.
Ambria values both STEM and visual arts, and her Operation program allows for them to intersect. She was creating outfits back as a Savannah Arts Academy high school student. With the annual Junk 2 Funk Fashion Show in mind, she used her imagination to create clothes using multiple mediums. Creativity is vital, and by encouraging other girls at a young age she can give them priceless tools for success. Her involvement in the STEM 360 Summer Enrichment Camp of Savannah State University and surrounding city has allowed for her to spark young minds from elementary to high schools. African American women are about three times less likely to pursue engineering degrees than males. Ambria has worked tirelessly to change that. Follow Ambria Berksteiner on Instagram.
Aliah Williamson | Hampton University
Aliah Williamson is a rising multimedia journalist specializing in local news. She graduated Summa Cum Laude from Hampton University. She holds a degree in Broadcast Journalism, with a minor in Marketing.
Aliah brought her bubbly personality to many social clubs on campus. She was involved in the National Association of Black Journalists, the Greer Dawson Wilson Student Leadership Training Program and more. Aliah served zealously as anchor, reporter, and writer for WHOV-TV, the student-run broadcast show at Hampton. She also volunteered as a local pageant title holder and elementary school tutor.
Aliah discovered her passion for news while interning at WTKR News Channel 3 in Norfolk, Virginia. She began working on their evening newscasts first, and worked on their morning lifestyle show, Coast Live after that. Her next summer was spent honing her journalism skills at the WMAR station in Baltimore. Through internships she has learned editing, web and broadcast writing, production, and reporting techniques. She now works for WDVM News in Maryland as a multimedia journalist covering local stories in Hagerstown and the surrounding areas. Follow Aliah Williamson on Instagram and Twitter.
Marcus Carey | Howard University
Marcus Carey, a Detroit native, is a co-founder of the revolutionary Homage Hospitality Group.
Marcus formed the idea of the hospitality company with Damon Lawrence. Sharing a vision that began with sharing Howard University as an alma mater, the two hoteliers began their journey in the hospitality industry with The Moor. Situated in New Orleans on the historic Canal Street, The Moor is a curated boutique hotel with just four cozy suites. It has also been called a Hausotel by Homage, a combination of a house and hotel. The unique space allows guests to experience an homage to the Moorish people. The rooms feature statement art, wood floors, and Moroccan undertones.
At Howard University, his studies in Business Administration prepared him for his role in the hotel business. The sense of home that Howard provided inspired the warmth of Homage hotels.
Professionally, Carey started off working in institutional venture capital, and helping teams assess investment decisions globally. He currently leads fundraising and business strategy for Homage. Homage is slowly moving to open more locations. The next endeavor is to bring their boutique twist to downtown Oakland with The Town Hotel. It will dwarf The Moor with at least 80 rooms, a rooftop lounge space, and its own restaurant. The group is excited to incorporate the city’s rich history into their brand, with even the name being an ode to San Francisco’s first hotel, “The City Hotel.
The inspiration for Homage comes from paying tribute to innovators that came before them. The values page of their website features several quotes from rappers discussing gratitude, confidence, and growth. Homage has taken off to great reception. The hospitality move has received recognition from Forbes, Hotel Business, Essence, and other outlets. Follow Marcus Carey on Instagram and Twitter.
Montrell “DJ Trellz” Davis | Winston-Salem State University
Montrell “DJ Trellz” Davis is a successful dj hailing from Whitsett, North Carolina. Nicknamed “Every Girl’s Favorite,” he works as the official dj for artist Luke Nasty, among other gigs around his alma mater Winston-Salem State University.
The DJ’s experiences at WSSU were pivotal in leading him down his career path. Trellz has said his degree in Marketing has helped him be prepared as a professional. He was impacted when he met Luke Nasty on campus as a freshman. Plenty of popular DJs have come from WSSU, and Luke was one of them. He started to practice DJing, and he gained traction as he stayed consistent. He also became a young father as a student there. However, DJ Trellz has said that his son gave him renewed purpose. Little Aidan kept him motivated to finish school and be his best.
By 2017, two years after graduating, he was named “CIAA DJ of the Year.” His style includes playlists with R&B and old school 80s and 90s hits. He also enjoys playing original tracks that have since been sampled. Now that Luke Nasty has become a Billboard-charting artist, Trellz has taken off as Luke’s official DJ. He has even made an appearance on ESPN’s “First Take.” However, he has never really forgotten his college. He makes it a point to mentor students and continues to DJ for campus events. Follow DJ Trellz on Instagram and Twitter.
Amir Hall | Bowie State University
Before his incredible success, Amir Hall was just an underdog quarterback on the football field. Nicknamed “Showtime,” Amir has made Bowie State University proud setting records on the field and winning awards along the way.
Bowie State Head Coach Damon Wilson saw something special in Amir Hall. He saw a kid who was not only smart, but athletic too. His suspicions were confirmed when Hall made his first touchdown on the team in an 8-yard run against Assumption College.
In only two years as the starting quarterback, Hall was leading the school record in passing yards, passing efficiency, and touchdowns. He has landed on CIAA Rookie of the Week list several times. Hall has thrown for at least 300 yards in a game seven times and exceeded 400 yards twice. Between passing and rushing touchdowns, he has scored an incredible 294 points. These are just a few stats, as Amir has at least ten more remarkable accomplishments that have not been listed.
Since proving himself with incredible stats, many have taken notice. Hall earned the Offensive Player of the Year award for the 2016 season. Hall was awarded Bowie State Athletics Male Athlete of the Year for the 2016-2017 school year. In 2017 he was named HBCU Player of the Year by the Black College Football Hall Of Fame. In 2018 he earned the Doug Williams Offensive Player of the Year Award. In 2018 he was also named All-CIAA First Team Quarterback, in addition to being their 2018 CIAA Player of the Year. Despite his football responsibilities, in 2018 Hall was still was able to make the Honor Roll with over a 3.2 GPA. Follow Amir Hall on Instagram.
Shelby Ivey Christie | North Carolina A&T University
Shelby Ivey Christie is a woman with a passion for holding down black culture in the fashion world. She currently serves as media manager at L’Oréal USA.
Shelby has always been business-minded, with a love for seeing others succeed. While on campus at North Carolina A&T University, she founded Bombshells in Business, an upbeat club created to encourage and prepare female business-focused students. In 2014 she even won the A.G.G.I.E. Leadership Award. Christie’s studies in Race, Class and Culture at NC A&T inspired her to dig deeper. Many of her professional efforts now come from a desire to highlight black people’s contribution to fashion. She is currently a candidate for an M.A. in Costume Studies at New York University. To Shelby, close studying ensures that black culture is protected and not appropriated.
Shelby explores more black history in her podcast The Girl With The Bamboo Earring. Inspiration for the name came from an art piece by Awol Erizku, who reimagined a the famous painting “Girl With The Pearl Earring with a black woman. The podcast is a way for Shelby to delve into the impact blackness has had on the fashion and luxury scene. Shelby leads sometimes heavy, sometimes hilarious conversations. She leads conversations with fashion industry leaders that can range from heavy to hilarious. The from the Harlem Renaissance to the rise and fall of the BabyPhat, Shelby makes sure black fashion history is given the respect it deserves. Follow Shelby Ivey Christie on Instagram and Twitter.
Rae’Shawnda Burgess | North Carolina Central University
Rae’Shawnda Burgess is a powerhouse entrepreneur and business strategist. She has a passion for contributing to the success of black-owned businesses. She knows that if she can empower other entrepreneurs, they can make their dreams into realities that are resources for their communities.
While on campus at North Carolina Central University Rae’Shawnda let her business and leadership skills shine. Her major in Business Administration and Management only complemented her business endeavors. In 2015 she created Professional Motives at NCCU, an organization meant to support entrepreneurs and help them strategize the growth of their startups. Rae later created Queens & Cocktails, an organization made specifically to help clients evolve their businesses through networking. She didn’t stop there.
Burgess most recently founded the women-focused organization Queens Unlimited Inc. A diverse group of professional women are supported through branding, financial assistance and investment workshops, and a space for networking and mentorship.
Rae’Shawnda’s talents have lead her to Cox Media in Charlotte, North Carolina. She finds time to volunteer mentoring at-risk youth in the Charlotte community as a leader of the Cox Cares Diversity and Inclusion team. As an Account Executive, she now works to develop business partners through successful media and marketing consultations. Follow Rae’Shawnda Burgess on Instagram and Twitter.
Adriiana Jackson | Dillard University
Adriiana Jackson is a recent graduate at Dillard University who lead as an exceptional student-athlete. Hailing from Houston, Texas, Adriiana she has taken strides of success on and off the court.
She was a key player on the Women’s basketball team, leading Dillard to claim both their first conference and conference tournament title since Hurricane Katrina. She has kept up with the team while also making the Dean’s list too.
Adriiana supported a very active extracurricular life even outside of sports. She is even a recent HBCU ALL-Star for the White House initiative program. She served the senior class chaplain. She owns her clothing line, RoiiiyalInk. She also created her own non-profit organization with the purpose of providing financial assistance to fellow HBCU students. In church she also has her own mime ministry, Khaotic Mime. She travels the nation with her ministry to preach the gospel through dance. Most recently, she was awarded as a William Sutton Prize winner at Dillard’s 2019 Senior Recognition Awards. Follow Adriiana Jackson on Instagram and Twitter.
Anthony Watters, CSCS | Howard University
Anthony Watters, CSCS is an avid Community Activist, Exercise Physiologist, and Strength and Conditioning Coach. Anthony currently works at Morgan State University as an adjunct faculty member.
While at Howard University, Anthony played Division I football and majored in Sports Medicine. It was there where he began to appreciate the connection between exercise and wellness. He also worked at the Medstar National Rehab Hospital in the area, supporting the physical and occupational therapists to rehabilitate patients with brain and stroke trauma. After graduating from Howard, Anthony went on to study exercise more through earning his M.S. in Exercise Science from McDaniel College.
Anthony currently works at Morgan State University as an adjunct faculty member. Anthony has created a new program at Medstar Good Samaritan Hospital as well. The program benefits patients who are discharged after a need for neurological rehabilitation due to stroke, Parkinson’s Disease, and traumatic brain injuries. Anthony cherishes the value of exercise on health, and hopes to expand to include patients whose condition could be improved by exercise. This includes those suffering from diabetes, hypertension, addiction recovery, heart disease, and more.
Drink More Watters is a wellness brand that Watters created to encourage others to lead a healthy lifestyle. Amenities on the website include workouts, playlists to get moving, articles, and meal plans. The brand is great for communities as well as individuals. Watters is making an effort to keep minority communities within Baltimore healthy through school visits, workshops, and lectures.
Anthony is also the co-founder of It Takes One Inc., a nonprofit created in 2016 to award scholarships to high school seniors in Baltimore City public schools. The organization has raised about $10,000 and awarded five scholarships. Two of the scholars are students at HBCUs.
The program scholars are able to network and be supported during college. Baltimore is also strengthened through community events like block parties, happy hours, fundraisers, and youth educational events. It takes One has successfully created a lane for others to reinvest in the community and collaborate. Follow Anthony Watters on Instagram and Twitter.
Zon D’Amour | Howard University
Zon D’Amour is a multimedia journalist and director with her own production company.
Zon planned to be a force in entertainment early on. She majored in Radio, TV & Film at Howard University. As founder of Directed by D’Amour Productions, Zon now gets to call the shots in her career. Her well-rounded list of services include videography, graphic design, photography, and content writing. Her videography skills have been featured in brand campaigns for Toyota and Chevrolet. Her photography has even landed her in EBONY Magazine.
As an ambitious entertainment journalist, Zon has landed interviews with an impressive list of celebs. Among them are Angela Bassett, Omari Hardwick, Gabrielle Union, Usher, and Kevin Hart. She has also covered stories by writing on platforms like the Los Angeles Times Sentinel and lifestyle publications xoNecole and HelloBeautiful. In addition to all these talents, Zon serves as a project manager and event producer. Follow Zon D’Amour on Instagram and Twitter.
Jobina Fortson | Howard University
Jobina Fortson an award-winning multimedia journalist who studied her craft at Howard University. By majoring in Journalism and minoring in Political Science, Jobina truly prepared herself for covering an array of important news stories. On campus, she worked as a reporter for Spotlight Network, the school’s television news station. She earned a place on the Dean’s List in addition to studies. She interned with WHUR 96.3 FM at Howard, CBS News, Fox News Channel in New York City, WJLA-TV ABC 7 News in D.C., and MTVU.
Jobina Fortson has a passion for breaking and investigating local news. Her first role after graduation was working as a reporter, fill-in anchor, and fill-in producer at WMDT, the ABC affiliate in Salisbury, MD. She is currently a journalist and anchor for WAVE 3 News, which is the NBC affiliate in Louisville, KY. Fortson has worked hard to prepare herself to be the best. She is skilled in various software like Final Cut Pro, Edius, ENPS, World Now, Sony Vegas, iNews, and Pro Tools. She also has experience as a talk show host and on-air personality for two radio stations.
One of Fortson’s most remarkable accomplishments to date is being tapped as a 2013 White House Correspondent’s Scholarship recipient. As a WHCA scholar, she earned a substantial $7,000 award. She got a chance to meet President Barack Obama, and even held a conversation with First Lady Michelle Obama. She credits her success to Howard faculty, competitive classmates, exposure to the class lessons, and being in the nation’s capital itself. Follow Jobina Fortson on Instagram and Twitter.
Here’s the Full List – 2019 HBCU Top 30 Under 30
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