Beyond her role, Scott sees the production as timely and deeply resonant with today’s social climate, particularly as conversations around women’s rights and agency remain urgent. “I can’t believe we have to talk about this again,” she reflected, referencing the enduring relevance of issues first raised by Ibsen more than a century ago.
Both Powell and Hunter see “When We Free the World” as part of a larger movement to transform how Hollywood and the media depict Black men. They are calling for more Black creators behind the scenes — directors, showrunners, cinematographers — to ensure authentic storytelling.
What drew Wise in wasn’t just the story, but the emotional terrain it covered. “I feel like I’ve always had the capacity to subvert pain into something meaningful,” she explains. “This play is emblematic of that. It hits me on a soul level.”
That ability to balance emotional storytelling with moments of joy and levity is part of Evans’ vision. “This show is faith-based without being preachy,” he said. “We’re telling stories we know; with people we love. That’s the win.”
Kelvin Davis’ new book, “Be a Good Man, Not a Nice Guy,” slated for release this year, offers a bold take on what it means to be a man in today’s world—urging readers to move beyond performative “niceness” toward a life of integrity, emotional maturity, and purpose.
Markuann Smith doesn’t just act in “Godfather of Harlem”—he helped build it from the ground up.
“I’m not here to imitate Frank Lucas — I’m showing who he could’ve been. He could’ve been me. He could’ve been you.” — Rome Flynn on redefining a legend in “Godfather of Harlem”
“I wanted the music to feel like the voice in Bumpy Johnson’s head,” said Swizz Beatz. “What would the song sound like when he’s under pressure, when he’s winning, when he’s trying to hold everything together?”
“Most of what I do is more psychological than medical,” Wallace says. “People of color have been beaten down by microaggressions. I help them redefine beauty so they can see their best selves. Beauty starts on the inside—it’s all within reach.”
“If it’s all my voice all the time, it can be monotonous,” Abraham said. “I’m really interested in how we can lift up other voices while challenging my dancers in new ways.” That diversity, he said, creates unexpected energy and connection on stage.
Goings said her earliest love for television came from the time she spent watching soaps with her elders. “I grew up watching the stories with my grandmother and great aunt,” Goings recalled. “That was our time together sitting on the couch, shoes off, just soaking it all in.”
“Our students often tell us they chose CDU because of the mission — to serve beyond the underserved,” Santana explained. “We offer what we call the CDU Advantage, built on pillars like social justice, research, and health policy.”
The event provides significant exposure, creating opportunities for local businesses to connect with potential clients, investors, and strategic partners, thereby expanding their reach within the local business community.
But despite all the business growth, Dulan’s heart remains in service. When wildfires hit LA in early 2025, he and his team stepped up—partnering with World Central Kitchen to provide meals.
“What these guys are really providing are blueprints for living,” said Hudlin. “As different as they all are, the one thing they share is a winner’s mentality.”