A free summer program aimed at underserved girls is underway at California State University, Bakersfield, giving participants a weeklong chance to explore new interests and potential career paths.
Expose Her Academy’s summer day program launched this week and is designed to introduce girls to opportunities they may not otherwise encounter. Organizers said the academy continues to make an impact by encouraging participants to get out, connect with others and try new experiences.
Girls take turns practicing their reporting and cameras skills at Expose Her Academy at CSUB. PHOTO: KBAK
“I think it’s important, because a lot of times we’re putting boxes now, and also media has taken over, or social media, and people are inside watching TV,” says Janell Burton, one of the organizers.
“It’s important for us to go outside and socialize, and talk to each other, and be exposed to different things that maybe you’re not exposed to, or your parents, or your family hasn’t ever been exposed to.” she adds.
The program held a media day featuring Cornelia Nicholson and Jasmin Knox who walked the girls through what it’s like to work as an anchor and reporter. Participants took turns practicing breaking news and interviewing each other.
Girls take turns practicing their reporting and cameras skills at Expose Her Academy at CSUB. PHOTO: KBAK
One of the girls, Neihmaya Taylor, said the academy has helped her step outside her comfort zone and try activities including golfing and Pilates.
“It’s a really good opportunity, and whose a senior at Frontier High School says, it definitely teaches you how to socialize with one another.
“Because, like, for me personally, I haven’t been doing a lot for the summer either way, so it’s a really good opportunity for myself, and to get out there, and I’ve made a lot of new friends, and I’ve got to know, like, my counselors, so it’s just really good things. We also learned how to golf and do pilates” Taylor said.
2026 Expose Her Academy girls pose with anchor Cornelia Nicholson and reporter Jasmin Knox for their media day. PHOTO: KBAK
All of the attendees range from ages 13 to 17. The academy collaborates with No Sister Left Behind organization founded to help lessen the disparities associated with women as it relates to their well-being.
To register for next year you can find more information on their website.