Hello:
My name is Achille Tenkiang, a Cameroonian-American writer, cultural strategist, and artist who has lived in Nairobi, Dublin, Paris, and now Brooklyn. Across all my journeys, James Baldwin has been a constant guide, shaping my worldview and igniting my passion for Black cultural heritage and the literary arts.
At 13, reading Baldwin's Go Tell It on the Mountain and The Fire Next Time transformed me. His profound insights on race, identity, and society inspired me to create similar transformative experiences for other youth.
As Princeton University's first African Studies graduate, a former Trustee focusing on diversity and inclusion, and a Mitchell Scholar in Ireland, my work has always centered around equity and cultural empowerment. I now work at the Mellon Foundation, supporting projects that celebrate Black culture and artistry.
This year, in honor of Baldwin's centennial, I'm launching the Baldwin Institute. In a time of book bans, literacy challenges, and educational censorship, our mission is critical. We aim to provide culturally rich educational opportunities for underserved youth, particularly Black, Brown, and queer youth from marginalized communities, inspiring pride in their heritage.
Baldwin Institute fills a crucial gap, as funding for underserved youth often focuses on STEM, leaving little space for creative growth. While Black and Brown individuals shape America's cultural pulse, they are rarely the decision-makers. Our goal is to change that—building a pipeline that leads these young people into positions of influence in cultural and artistic production
Baldwin's life shows us that history is made by ordinary people who dare to dream. At Baldwin Institute, we empower young minds to realize their potential and shape the world around them.
Arts and heritage have broadened my horizons and fueled my journey. Together, we can create spaces where young people can dream boldly and build a future rich in creativity and possibility.
Thank you for your support in empowering the next generation of leaders and creators.
In gratitude,
Achille Tenkiang