A Winning Collaboration

This summer, YouthBeat has taken another significant step in empowering Oakland’s youth through our dynamic partnership with the Oakland Roots Soccer Club. Our Summer Bridge Program and YouthBeat PRO division joined forces with the club to provide an unforgettable experience for our students, combining the excitement of sports with the creativity of media production. This collaboration is a testament to our mission of offering comprehensive media education and job placement opportunities for Oakland’s young creatives.

The partnership with the Oakland Roots Soccer Club has allowed our students to engage with the community in new and exciting ways. This summer, our Summer Bridge Program students had the incredible opportunity to table at three different games, bringing YouthBeat's message to the vibrant and diverse fans of Oakland’s beloved soccer team. Our students provided information about our programs, took photos of the enthusiastic fans, and showcased their growing media skills.

Capturing the Moment

One of the highlights of this partnership was the chance for our students to shadow Filo, our talented YouthBeat Pro Apprentice, on the field. Through this partnership Filo has secured a media internship with the Roots for the entire 2024 season, helping to build his portfolio while providing photo and video coverage of each home game. Filo, who has been a shining example of what dedication and passion can achieve, guided our students this summer in capturing live-action photos of the games. From the intensity of the players on the field to the energy of the cheering crowd, our students learned the intricacies of sports photography, gaining hands-on experience that textbooks can't replicate.

Community and Connection

The connection with the Oakland Roots Soccer Club has been more than just an educational experience; it has been a chance to deepen our roots within the community. We are profoundly grateful for the support and collaboration with the club, which has allowed our students to expand their horizons and see the practical applications of their media skills. The interaction with fans and the firsthand experience of capturing live sports action has been invaluable in their growth as future media professionals.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Oakland Roots Soccer Club for their support and collaboration. Their commitment to the community and to empowering Oakland’s youth aligns perfectly with our mission at YouthBeat. We are excited about the future of this partnership and the many opportunities it will bring for our students.

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Your support makes these amazing experiences possible for Oakland's youth. If you'd like to make a difference in our students' lives, consider donating to YouthBeat. Click here to give today!