Montgomery Community Media (MCM) has unveiled the Digital Futures Institute, a new initiative designed to train the next generation of content creators while amplifying diverse voices in media.

The Institute features innovative programs like the NextGen Media Lab, which equips middle and high school students with professional-grade equipment and real-world experience, preparing them for careers in digital storytelling. Another highlight is the BIPOC & LGBTQIA+ Digital Storytelling Fellowship, which offers mentorship, training, and stipends to aspiring storytellers from underrepresented communities, fostering inclusion and understanding in Montgomery County.

"This is an investment in future careers and a more inclusive, representative media landscape," said Jasmine White, MCM's CEO.

For more information, see the press release below.

Montgomery Community Media Launches Digital Futures Institute to Empower Next-Generation Storytellers

Montgomery County, MD -- Montgomery Community Media (MCM) proudly announces the launch of its newly restructured education initiative, the Digital Futures Institute, dedicated to training the next generation of content creators. This new framework builds on MCM's commitment to media literacy, digital production, and storytelling, with a strong focus on inclusivity, racial equity, and social justice. By providing critical resources and guidance, the Institute aims to equip young creators with the skills to thrive in an increasingly digital world.

The Digital Futures Institute houses innovative programs like the NextGen Media Lab, an immersive, hands-on media training platform for middle and high school students. This lab provides students with access to professional-grade equipment and real-world media projects, preparing them for careers in media and digital storytelling. Through this initiative, students gain invaluable experience, workforce readiness skills, and service-learning hours, all while contributing to Montgomery County's vibrant media landscape.

As part of its mission to amplify underrepresented voices, the Institute also launched the BIPOC & LGBTQIA+ Digital Storytelling Fellowship. This fellowship provides aspiring storytellers from Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC), and LGBTQIA+ communities with mentorship, media training, and stipends, giving them a platform to share stories from their unique perspectives. This fellowship aims to deepen connections within Montgomery County by fostering a broader understanding of diverse experiences through impactful storytelling. Learn more about the fellowship here.

MCM, CEO Jasmine White expressed enthusiasm for this launch: "With the Digital Futures Institute, we are paving the way for young people in Montgomery County to access tools, mentorship, and platforms to share their voices. This is not only an investment in future careers but in building a more inclusive, representative media landscape."

MCM invites community members, educators, and potential partners to join in supporting the Digital Futures Institute. To learn more about the Institute's programs and explore partnership opportunities, please visit mymcmedia.org.

About Montgomery Community Media

Montgomery Community Media (MCM) is Montgomery County's premier nonprofit media organization, committed to providing diverse, inclusive media access and literacy for all. Through community engagement and innovative programming, MCM fosters media that reflects and strengthens the community.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Rahwa Andemichael, Director of Communications and Development

Email: [email protected]