Sarah Sloan - 2025 Emma Bowen Foundation Fellow (Participation in a Research Grant or Fellowship: 7 points)

 

Becoming an Emma Bowen Foundation (EBF) Fellow has been one of the most transformative experiences of my academic and professional journey. The Emma Bowen Foundation, designed to increase diversity in media, technology, and innovation through the pioneering leadership of Emma Bowen, has not only opened doors to invaluable career opportunities but has also shaped the way I understand purpose, representation, and leadership in the media industry.

The fellowship offers more than connecting students to internships, it provides the mentorship, training, and community needed to help young professionals of color thrive in industries where representation has historically been limited.

Through EBF’s programming, I learned how storytelling extends beyond content, it’s about perspective, equity, and cultural responsibility. EBF's workshops, professional development sessions, and speaker panels challenged me to think more critically about how media shapes public perception and how I can contribute to building more inclusive narratives. This deeper understanding reframed my approach to communications: rather than simply producing content, I now think about the broader impact that each message can have on audiences and communities.

Being part of the EBF network has been instrumental in my personal and professional growth. My participation in the fellowship has equipped me with the confidence to step into high-impact spaces, like my social media internship at BET, and contribute meaningfully in spaces I occupy. The professional development training I received through EBF prepared me to navigate corporate environments, communicate effectively, and approach every opportunity with clarity and purpose.

More importantly, the program reminded me that leadership begins with authenticity. Through mentorship and peer connections, I gained a sense of belonging in an industry that can often feel intimidating to young professionals. I discovered how my voice, experiences, and ideas bring unique value to any table I join.

The lessons from the Emma Bowen Foundation extend far beyond my time as a Fellow. I’ve learned how to leverage my network with intention, build relationships rooted in mutual growth, and use my platform to champion equity in media. Moving forward, I plan to apply what I’ve learned from EBF to every project and partnership I pursue. Whether developing social campaigns, hosting conversations, or amplifying stories that deserve to be heard, I now approach my work with a renewed sense of mission, to continue the Emma Bowen Foundation's legacy of opening doors and shaping the next generation of storytellers.

By Sarah J. Sloan