Applauding Drew Hidden Geniuses' Journey of Growth

The Hidden Genius Project is a nationally recognized initiative dedicated to training and mentoring young Black males in technology creation, entrepreneurship, and leadership. Through its Intensive Immersion Program, participants engage in hands-on coding projects, business development, professional skill-building, and community leadership opportunities. The program provides each Genius with a MacBook laptop, quarterly stipends, mentorship from industry professionals, and access to real-world experiences that prepare them for college, careers, and long-term success. At its core, The Hidden Genius Project aims to reveal the brilliance within each young man while helping them build confidence, purpose, and lifelong connections.

For Drew Charter School scholars, this mission is deeply felt. The program has offered far more than technical skills—it has provided personal growth, professional networks, and a strong sense of brotherhood. Together, Cayden, Quincy, Derek,  Adrian, and Albert—featured below—illustrate the powerful impact of The Hidden Genius Project. Through mentorship, hands-on learning, and access to meaningful career pathways, the program helps young Black males develop into innovators, leaders, and changemakers. Their reflections highlight not only their individual growth but also the shared sense of community and empowerment that defines the Hidden Genius experience.

Cayden Williams, 10th Grade

Cayden Williams finds deep value in the support system the program provides. To Cayden, The Hidden Genius Project means having a team of mentors and peers who are invested in his growth. Although he was already exploring technology independently, the program helped him unlock a new passion—cybersecurity. This discovery has expanded his vision for the future and opened the door to opportunities he hadn’t previously considered.

Quincy Durham, 10th Grade

For Quincy Durham (10th grade), the program embodies leadership, community, and connection. He identifies The Hidden Genius Project as a pathway to building long-lasting relationships and gaining access to professional networks, including through his paid internship. Quincy has grown significantly in his ability to network and present himself professionally. Creating his LinkedIn account and forming connections with industry professionals has broadened his horizons and strengthened his confidence in pursuing future opportunities.

Derek Snowden, 10th Grade

For Derrick Snowden, the program represents a life-changing opportunity to uncover potential he didn’t know he had. He describes The Hidden Genius Project as more than a mentoring experience; to him, it is a space where young Black males are encouraged to think boldly about their future. Through coding, leadership development, and real-world exposure, Derrick has strengthened his technical abilities and gained the confidence to take on new challenges. His internship experience also played a meaningful role in preparing him for college and long-term career success.

Adrian Colbert, 11th Grade

For Adrian Colbert, meeting new people outside of Drew gave him a fresh perspective. Being exposed to different teaching styles and ways of thinking helped him grow and better understand his career goals. The experience boosted his confidence in both coding and entrepreneurship, allowing him to apply those skills in real-world situations. Adrian encourages new participants to be more outgoing and fully embrace the opportunity, emphasizing that the program offers far more value than the MacBook or the stipend—it provides a strong foundation. He believes opportunities like this are rare for young people and urges others to take advantage of it and grow.

Albert Wakuteka, 11th Grade

For Albert Wakuteka, new students should be open and ready to connect. He describes the program as a safe space where you can have fun while learning. The mentors check in weekly to support both grades and mental well-being. He also shared that the social experience was a highlight—meeting new people, networking, and building brotherhood.