Why Emerging Artists? And, Why Now?

My photography style prioritizes authenticity, and that's one of the countless reasons I am deeply invested in supporting emerging artists.

Reflecting on my career trajectory, it's evident that my passion has always lied within championing untold and underrepresented stories. Whether it was during my early days as an intern at The Source Magazine or later pitching emerging artists as a photo editor or art director, I've always sought out talent from the less explored corners. Also, needless to mention my personal work, The Underground Project; which was cultivated around underground artists, and the thoughts and perspectives associated with (or far outside of) mainstream topics.

I'm particularly drawn to raw, unfiltered, and unapologetic voices — more often that not, this is parallel with the up-and-coming generation (Gen Z). I believe these individuals possess a unique authenticity that can transform the photography industry and beyond.

The Evolution of Free Juice

Photography has always been a core part of my journey, and I aim to share my knowledge and experience to build the future generation of photographers. This goal is possible through Free Juice, a platform empowering emerging BIPOC photographers. 

In our programming, we provide our mentees with the necessary resources and connections to promote equity within the photography industry, effectively leveling the playing field in a predominantly white-dominated landscape.

How it Started : 2009 in Houston, Tx

This initiative began with "Meeting of the Minds," where I brought together my childhood friends in Houston in 2009-2011. Then, "Brunch N Build" emerged mid-career in Harlem in 2017, bringing people together for conversation, food and shared resources. Subsequently, "Free Juice 1.0" came to life in 2018, and today, it has evolved into "Free Juice, Inc.". 

The origin and vision of Free Juice, Inc. stem from the collaboration between Toni Gibbs and me, where we envisioned a program that offers support, answers, and guidance on essential skills for leadership roles. 

How it's Going : NYC, HTX, and Beyond

Today, our mission is deeply personal because I've often been the sole representative for BIPOC creators in various rooms, working tirelessly to make a positive impact. 

Yes, school provided me with invaluable technical skills and taught me the importance of networking. As a transplant from Houston, Parsons School of Design - The New School emphasized the significance of networking, which prepared me for my career journey. I learned about roles like photo editing and artist representation, which broadened my perspective and boosted my confidence, offering alternative career paths beyond photography, which gave me the confidence to eventually become a photo editor and photo art director (roles outside of photographer). While school taught me about photo editing and artist representation, it didn't prepare me for confidently reaching out, navigating, or building a supportive community. This is why fostering inclusive environments, like Free Juice is crucial as it helps bridge these gaps and connects the dots.

Our Impact

Through our program, we're not just tackling an industry-wide issue; we're championing a cause that resonates deeply with me on a personal level. As someone who once stood on the outside looking in, navigating the intimidating landscape of the photo industry, I intimately understand the struggles faced by emerging photographers. Having experienced firsthand the barriers that come with being an underrepresented individual in this field, I'm driven by a passionate belief in the transformative power of diversity and inclusion.

My Journey

From feeling the need to uproot my life and move to New York for eight years to access opportunities, to now leading a program that breaks down geographical barriers and provides virtual access to knowledge and mentorship, fuels my dedication to this cause. I know firsthand the importance of having a support system and resources that level the playing field, regardless of background or location.

The Community

By sharing our experiences and leveraging our program's resources, WE are not just offering solutions; we're fostering a community where individuals from all walks of life can thrive and make their mark in the industry. Together, let's continue to uplift and empower the next generation of photographers, ensuring that talent and passion, not circumstances, dictate success.

Our current cycle of Free Juice University mentorship program recently opened for applicants, and we're actively seeking more POC mentors in roles such as photographers, photo editors, art/creative/photo directors, and retouchers. While being a person of color is not a prerequisite for becoming a mentor, it is essential that all mentors have a deep understanding of the experiences of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC). This time around, we will be providing training to ensure that the individuals we invite as mentors are equipped to support and uplift mentees without inadvertently contributing to any existing challenges they may face, special thanks to our friends at Beytna Design .

Are you the one we're searching for? Join us as we kick off our Spring cohort.

Apply to Free Juice University

Know someone? Please send them our way. The next generation of photographers and creators urgently needs your experience and guidance.

We need your help to reach our goal!

In pursuing this mission, we require funding to connect more mentees with valuable resources and fairly compensate our mentors and partners. If interested in donating to Free Juice, head here.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to Free Juice's dedicated board members, whose consistency, diligence, and integral contributions make our work possible: Sadé Lewis , Madeleine Budd , Chauncie Dallas, PMP , Mickel Alexander , Neibra Stewart , Francis Guzman, & Bakari Silbert. As well as all of our partners, past mentors + mentees, and our donors!