BET is getting behind the next generation of media and entertainment leaders through a new initiative designed to provide hands-on experience, mentorship, and direct guidance from top industry professionals.
On May 11, BET announced the launch of BET Next Gen, a new leadership development program aimed at preparing future media and entertainment executives through mentorship, hands-on training, and guidance from top creative and communications professionals. The initiative will give participants real-world experience across multiple areas of the business while offering insight into the strategies that have helped BET remain a leading voice for Black audiences for more than 40 years.
The expanded program highlights BET’s commitment to developing future leaders across the media landscape, from storytelling and branding to audience engagement and cultural influence. Participants will gain experience in key areas including PR and communications, production, marketing, ad sales, brand creative, talent relations, and social and digital media.
“BET Next Gen reflects BET’s long-standing commitment to creating leadership pathways to the spaces and platforms where culture is shaped,” said Louis Carr, President of BET. “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. 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.”
At a time when many college graduates are worried about career opportunities in the growing AI era, BET says its Brand Creative track will be reserved exclusively for HBCU students as part of its continued investment in Black creative talent. Participants in the BET Next Gen program will gain hands-on experience working on major events like the 2026 BET Awards while receiving mentorship, professional development, and real-world exposure to the entertainment business.
Applications for the BET Next Gen 2026 cohort are now open and will close on May 22, 2026. Interested applicants can apply at BETAmbassadorProgram.Typeform.com/NextGen2026.
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