Space for Every Genuis

Access to tech and creative industry employment

Expand existing project, program, or initiative (expanding and continuing ongoing, successful work)

ESAA is addressing the disparities for minorities within the aerospace industry. Projections indicate a booming space economy expected to reach a trillion dollars by 2030, promising substantial growth and technological advancement. In contrast, economic forecasts predict a decline in wealth among Black and Latinx communities, potentially reaching zero by 2053 and 2073 ( Forbews, 2023). Minorities make up less than 4% of aerospace professionals in the U.S. This disparity highlights the systemic barriers that imposes on access to educational pathways and career opportunities. Budget cuts, such as those affecting outdoor education, and innovative learning initiatives exacerbate these challenges. These reductions deprive youth of experiences needed to develop interest and pursue careers that can change their economic trajectory. We are dismantling barriers, challenging systems while providing opportunities to people who might otherwise never have access.

When denied a seat at the table, underrepresented groups have consistently forged our own paths and created opportunities across various industries. Now, the time has come to apply this resilience and initiative to the field of space exploration. “Space for Every Genius” is bringing the excitement of space exploration directly to the inner city. We're highlighting the cool aspects of space that many people are unaware of and ensuring that everyone, regardless of age, socioeconomic status or skill set, understands there truly is a place for them in the space industry. Recognizing that aerospace can seem like a distant dream, we're making it culturally relevant by incorporating art, music, and innovation. The grant will support in implementing the Space Event and the general operations of the programming offered to our school partners. Alongside the World Space Week Event, we are launching a school-based program that pairs students with mentors in Space professions who share their same background and can provide learning experiences aligned with their interests. Students will then have the opportunity to travel to FL, for a Zero-G Gravity activation flight. Throughout the year, all students will participate in an Art projects that will culminate in their artwork being flown to space. Recognizing the challenges families face in accessing museums, we are bringing the exhibition directly to them

Our work will increase awareness and interest in aerospace and technology careers among Angelenos that are historically underrepresented. Partnerships with local businesses, community organizations, and schools will strengthen community bonds and create a wave of new collaborations. Families who previously lacked access to educational resources will benefit from local exhibitions and workshops, providing immediate and practical learning opportunities We are strategically launching our event in Inglewood to coincide with its current innovation that impacts LA County; and to emphasize the role of youth in this transformation. We hope to address the educational challenges, such as the closure of 5 public schools in Inglewood by 2025. We hope to mitigate educational deficits while cultivating a sense of ownership, ensuring that Angelenos have the autonomy and interest to contribute their communities.

Although the ESAA is a new initiative in LA County, we have previously implemented speaking series and mentorship pop-up events through our for-profit agency, Space Equity Association. The LA County event and school partnership will mark the launch of our LA initiative. We’ve collected data through pre- and post-surveys, often via QR codes during our events, using industry data trends as benchmarks for success against our advocacy and educational offerings. We have the capacity to conduct both qualitative and quantitative research to inform our programs, reports, and academic trajectories for participating students. Including:
Surveys to asses changes in participants' knowledge, interest, and perceptions.
Enrollment and Retention Rates: to track the # of students who enroll in and complete the Mentorship Program Mentorship Feedback: mentors/mentees can provide metrics for mentor-mentee engagement.
Long-term Tracking: by enrolling participants into our fellowship programs with NASA

We are partnering with New Heights Charter School through a grant to support students' exposure to technology and innovation. Working directly with the school administrators and parents, we will offer culturally specific lesson plans and programs. Our initiative will be integrated as an afterschool program, operating two days per and will serve 25 students throughout the school year.
Avenues of Life, a community-based nonprofit, will provide access to 25 students who participate in their Youth Empowerment Program allowing us to extend our reach and impact more students who can benefit from our programs.
1500 Sound Academy will host our event at their state-of-the-art 10,000-square-foot facility ensuring that we have a top-tier venue to engage the community.