bbleaders

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bbleaders *

bbLeaders is Building Beats’ creative workforce development and post-secondary readiness program for young people exploring their interests and preparing for opportunities in music and the creative industries.

Through mentorship, hands-on learning, career exploration, and real-world experiences, bbLeaders bridges the gap between creative passion and opportunity, helping young people build the skills, confidence, and connections to pursue college, creative training, and careers.

The bbLeaders Fellowship is our core program for new participants, with opportunities to stay connected and continue building after the Fellowship. The bbLeaders Fellowship is a free, 25-week program for NYC public high school students in Grades 10–12 (ages 15–18) who are interested in music, creativity, and exploring their future. Applications are now closed for the 2026-2027 Fellowship but if you are interested in becoming a Fellow, fill out our interest form below and we will contact you when applications open for the next cycle.

Creating careers.building Pathways.powering the next generation of creators.

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2026-2027 bbLeaders Fellowship

November 2026–June 2027

The bbLeaders Fellowship is a free, 25-week program for NYC public high school students in Grades 10–12 (ages 15–18) who are interested in music, creativity, and exploring their future. From November through June, Fellows develop creative and professional skills through a combination of technical training, workforce development, mentorship, and real-world opportunities.

Program Details

Ages: 15–18
Grades: 10–12
Program: November 2026–June 2027
Schedule: Two days per week, 4:30–6:30 PM
Location: Building Beats @ BRIC Arts Media, Brooklyn, NY
Cost: Free

Applications are now closed for the 2026-2027 Fellowship but if you are interested in becoming a Fellow, fill out our interest form below and we will contact you when applications open for the next cycle.

Get notified when applications open in 2027

Choose Your Creative Track

MUSIC PRODUCTION

Build skills in beatmaking, sequencing, sound design, sampling, songwriting, vocal recording, mixing, and original project development.

DJ’ing

Develop skills in DJ software, music curation, beatmatching, EQing, mixing, turntablism, performance, and hands-on use of professional equipment.

Build Your Creative & Career Skills

Alongside their creative track, Fellows participate in weekly workforce development sessions focused on career readiness, including resume and LinkedIn development, interview preparation, financial literacy, AI tools, and job shadowing.

Throughout the program season, Fellows can gain exposure to paid gigs, jobs, internships, and other opportunities in the music and creative industries.

Get notified when applications open in 2027

Returning Fellows

The Fellowship is just the beginning.

After completing the Fellowship, graduates can continue with bbLeaders as Returning Fellows through age 24. Returning Fellows stay connected to the bbLeaders community and can continue accessing opportunities that support their creative and professional growth, including:

Workforce development and career readiness
Monthly masterclasses
Paid gigs and opportunities through the Building Beats DJ Agency
Internships, jobs, and other industry opportunities
Post-secondary and career guidance

Get notified when applications open in 2027

No. You don't need prior experience to apply. bbLeaders supports beginners as well as students who already have creative skills, with programming designed to help you grow from your starting point.
bbLeaders explores opportunities across music, media, and creative technology, including:
- Music production and DJing
- Audio engineering and podcasting
- Content creation and media production
- Live events and creative entrepreneurship
- Creative technology and digital storytelling
You don't need to know your exact career path. The program is designed to help you explore what's possible.
Yes. bbLeaders offers guidance around:
- Creative college majors and alternative pathways
- Scholarships and financial aid
- Portfolio development
- Career-aligned decision-making
The goal is to help you make informed choices about what comes after high school.
Fellows meet two days per week from 4:30–6:30 PM. There may also be occasional opportunities such as field trips, gigs, and special events.
Fellowship graduates can continue as Returning Fellows through age 24, with access to ongoing career development, monthly masterclasses, and paid opportunities.