*BET is expanding its investment in emerging media professionals with the launch of BET Next Gen, a new leadership initiative aimed at preparing future executives and creatives for careers across entertainment, communications, and brand strategy.
The program is designed as a multi-track development pipeline that gives participants direct exposure to several major areas of the media business, including communications and public relations, marketing, production, talent relations, ad sales, social media, and brand creative.
According to BET, the initiative will combine hands-on work experience with mentorship opportunities and guidance from executives working across the company’s communications, creative, and media divisions.
The company said the program is intended to help participants better understand the strategic and cultural decision-making that has shaped BET’s position as a leading media platform serving Black audiences for more than four decades.
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One portion of the initiative, the Brand Creative track, will be reserved exclusively for students currently attending historically Black colleges and universities. BET said the focus reflects its continued investment in supporting creative talent rooted in Black culture and community.
Louis Carr described the program as part of the company’s broader effort to create access and leadership opportunities within the entertainment industry.
“BET Next Gen reflects BET’s long-standing commitment to creating leadership pathways to the spaces and platforms where culture is shaped,” Carr said.
He also emphasized the role of HBCUs within the initiative, stating, “HBCUs have long been incubators of Black excellence, innovation, and creative leadership, and through our Brand Creative track, we’re investing in the students who continue that legacy and amplifying institutions that have shaped generations of Black talent.”
Participants selected for BET Next Gen will contribute to major company events and projects, including the 2026 BET Awards, while also supporting longer-term business and brand initiatives throughout the program.
Carr added, “This program opens doors to hands-on experience across BET’s live events, storytelling, and brand ecosystem, creating pathways that extend far beyond a single moment.”
Applications for the 2026 BET Next Gen cohort are open through May 22. Interested applicants can apply HERE.
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