2 Chainz is leveraging his platform to impact Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). The rapper and entrepreneur is joining forces with PepsiCo in a new initiative to support students pursuing careers in STEM.
The “Taste of Tomorrow” scholarship, backed by PepsiCo and the PepsiCo Foundation, will invest $350,000 in financial aid, resources, and mentorship for HBCU students with an interest in culinary innovation, food science, and technology. This initiative seeks to close the racial gap in STEM fields, where Black professionals account for just 9% of the workforce.
As a proud graduate of Alabama State University, the Atlanta-rapper understands firsthand the pivotal role HBCUs play in empowering students of color.
“As an HBCU Alum, I’m excited to share my platform and partner with the PepsiCo’s Taste of Tomorrow initiative to support diversity in STEM and encourage students, all while bringing awareness to the talented graduates coming from HBCUs entering the workforce,” 2Chainz said in a press release.
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2 Chainz’s connection to the food industry runs deep, with successful ventures like his Atlanta-based restaurant Escobar and his collaborations with fast food chain Krystal. His experience has shown him the value of innovation, which he aims to pass on to the next generation through the “Taste of Tomorrow” initiative.
The “Taste of Tomorrow” initiative isn’t just focused on financial aid. It aims to inspire and empower students to become future leaders in STEM industries. PepsiCo Foundation is awarding $250,000 in scholarships to students from nine HBCUs:
- Benedict College
- Bethune-Cookman University
- Florida A&M University
- Hampton University
- Howard University
- Jackson State University
- Morgan State University
- North Carolina Central University
- Prairie View A&M University
Florida A&M University and Prairie View A&M University will receive an additional $100,000 to further support their STEM programs and develop resources that foster long-term advancement.
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“At the core of what we do at the PepsiCo Foundation is provide underrepresented communities with resources and access to economic opportunities that sustain and elevate their lives,” said C.D. Glin, President of the PepsiCo Foundation and Global Head of Social Impact for PepsiCo. “As a proud HBCU graduate and executive in a food and beverage company, my interest in this program is both personal and professional. By investing in HBCU students and supporting STEM education, we hope to inspire a new era of STEM professionals to not only change the future of this industry but provide long-term impact in their communities.”
Applications for the “Taste of Tomorrow” scholarship are open through Dec. 2, 2024. Eligible students at participating HBCUs can find more information on how to apply and take their first step toward a groundbreaking career in STEM.
For more on this initiative and other opportunities, visit PepsiCo’s official scholarship page.
