Embracing and Elevating the Voices of OUR Young Black Men

At a time when the world feels unpredictable, I find strength in the resilience, creativity, and promise of young Black men. These young men are carrying untold stories, each one with the potential to inspire and unite us. Investing in them means creating spaces where they feel valued and heard, where their voices take center stage, and where they can grow into the leaders and storytellers they’re meant to be.

For generations, courage, vision, and ambition have defined Black men and boys. When we create space for them to tell their stories, we see a truer, fuller picture of who they are and their powerful impact on their communities. Empowering them to shape their narratives goes beyond just supporting individuals; it’s about creating a future where their voices can be celebrated, recognized, and respected.

The PMG Journey Fellowship centers on guiding young Black men to understand narratives' powerful role in shaping perceptions, both within and outside their communities. Fellows examine how stories have historically influenced society’s view of Black men and boys and, in turn, how these narratives impact their sense of identity and self-worth. By learning to frame their stories in ways that highlight their aspirations, values, and contributions, they’re reclaiming their place in the broader narrative. This program is about using authentic self-representation to build a stronger, more positive vision for themselves and their communities.

Studies consistently show that young people who are supported by mentorship and asset-based programs develop a strong sense of identity, self-worth, and purpose. Research from The Journal of Negro Education, a quarterly peer-reviewed academic journal published by Howard University highlights that young Black men in supportive programs report increased self-confidence and a greater sense of purpose. As these young men learn to shape their stories, they realize they don’t have to fit into others’ expectations—they can define their paths. Their voices are not just powerful; they’re transformative.

Through the PMG Journey Fellowship, we’re building more than skills. We’re nurturing confidence, inspiring purpose, and showing young men that their voices are valued. Each story they share adds strength to our communities and reminds us of what’s possible when we invest in the next generation. The truth is, the future is filled with opportunity because of young men like these and the stories they’re ready to tell. By uplifting our young Black men, we’re choosing to build a world where every voice and every story matters.