Newark, NJ — December 16, 2025 — The Newark Regional Business Partnership (NRBP), in collaboration with the Renaissance Newark Foundation (RNF), its 501(c)(3) affiliate, hosted the Annual Meeting & Holiday Reception on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at Ironside Newark. One of the organization’s most anticipated gatherings, the evening brought together NRBP members, regional business leaders, and community partners to reflect on the year’s accomplishments and look ahead to the organization’s future.
 
The program featured the appointment of new NRBP Board officers and members, along with the presentation of NRBP’s inaugural Milestone Champion recognition—honoring organizations that have been devoted NRBP members since the 1950s, 1960s, or 1970s. These legacy members represent decades of sustained investment in Newark’s growth and a shared commitment to advancing NRBP’s mission.
 
Ferlanda Fox Nixon, NRBP’s President & CEO, shared that “this celebration not only acknowledged the exceptional leadership of our newly appointed Board officers and members but also the enduring dedication of our Milestone Champions. Their commitment, spanning decades, is the foundation of NRBP’s mission and a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience of our business community.”
 
Milestone Champion Honorees
NRBP proudly recognized the following organizations for their longstanding membership and impact:

• Brantley Brothers Moving & Storage Co.
• Edison Properties
• Gibbons PC
• McCarter & English LLP
• NJ Advance Media
• Prudential Financial
• PSEG
• Rutgers University–Newark
• Rutgers Health
• Port Authority of New York & New Jersey
• University Hospital
• St. Benedict’s Preparatory School

 
Board Leadership Appointments
During the Annual Meeting, NRBP announced its incoming Board leadership:

• Mary Makfinsky, Popular Bank, was appointed Chair
• Mitch Cahn, Unionwear, was appointed Vice Chair
• Napoleon Stephenson, PNC Bank, was appointed Treasurer
• Sarah Jones, Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey, will continue to serve as Secretary
• Jennifer Mazawey was recognized for her service as Immediate Past Chair

 
NRBP also welcomed four new members to its Board of Directors:

• Anthony Borelli, Edison Properties
• Ari Fox, Audible
• Robert Johnson, Gibbons PC
• Amar Singer, IPS Security

 
Newly appointment Board Chair Mary Makfinsky shared that “it is an honor to step into this role at a moment when NRBP is both celebrating decades of commitment and charting an ambitious path forward. I look forward to working with our Board, members, and partners to build on this strong foundation and advance opportunities that benefit the Greater Newark region.”
 
The reception featured lively networking and NRBP’s signature Holiday Market, which featured Newark-based vendors and artisans. Proceeds from the event benefited the Renaissance Newark Foundation and will support its mission to advance inclusive economic development and create pathways to opportunity for Newark’s diverse communities.
 
The 2025 Annual Meeting & Holiday Reception was made possible through the generous support of its sponsors: Prudential Financial (Platinum Sponsor); Edison Properties LLC (Bronze Sponsor); Popular Bank (Holiday Market Sponsor); and United Airlines (Holiday Market Sponsor).
 
As NRBP looks ahead to 2026, the evening served as both a celebration of legacy and a reaffirmation of the Partnership’s role as a catalyst for a flourishing and inclusive region.

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About Newark Regional Business Partnership
Newark Regional Business Partnership (NRBP) is the premier chamber of commerce serving the Greater Newark region. NRBP’s mission is to strengthen the business community through connections, resources, and advocacy. The organization connects its members to partners and resources that can help strengthen their business and increase the economic competitiveness of Newark and the region. For more information, visit www.newarkrbp.org.
 
About Renaissance Newark Foundation
Committed to Newark's bright future, the Renaissance Newark Foundation (RNF) harnesses the power of education, research, and civic participation to fuel economic development, attract businesses, and create pathways to success for Newark's diverse communities. RNF initiatives include the Small & Emerging Business Initiative (SEBI) and Navigating Newark. For more information, visit www.newarkrbp.org/rnf. 

Today is Giving Tuesday, the single biggest day of global generosity. If you’ve been waiting to make your gift, the time is now—because we have a brand new, high-impact program that needs your support to launch successfully.

Introducing the National Civics Bee
The Renaissance Newark Foundation (RNF), the 501(c)(3) affiliate of the Newark Regional Business Partnership, is thrilled to announce its inaugural role as a Regional Partner in the prestigious U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation's National Civics Bee!

This nonpartisan competition encourages 6th, 7th, and 8th graders to deepen their understanding of American democracy and actively contribute to their communities. Students begin by submitting an essay proposing a solution to a problem facing their municipalities. The top finalists then compete in a live quiz event.

Why The National Civics Bee Matters:
The National Civics Bee is a powerful vehicle for RNF’s core mission: it inspires young minds to become informed, active citizens. By hosting the Regional Competition, RNF is directly cultivating the next generation of civic and business leaders right here in New Jersey.

Your Gift Directly Funds This Critical Launch
As a Regional Partner, RNF is responsible for funding the local elements that make this event empowering and memorable for our students. The success of the competition relies on your immediate support. Your Giving Tuesday donation today will directly support three critical needs for the Regional Competition:

• 💻 Technology for Competition: Purchasing or securing laptops or tablets for the finalists to use during the live civics quiz rounds.
• 💰 Cash Awards: Funding the cash prizes for the top regional winners, who will then advance to the State Finals.
• 📣 Promotion & Logistics: Covering the costs of outreach and promotion to ensure every eligible middle schooler in the region knows about and can participate in this free opportunity.
  

The Final Push: Support RNF Today
Last week, we highlighted our success with Navigating Newark. Today, on Giving Tuesday, we ask you to invest in the newest initiative that will shape our region's future by empowering its youth.

Informed and active citizens create a stronger country, a stronger economy, and a stronger workforce. By supporting RNF today, you are giving middle schoolers the platform, the tools, and the recognition they need to become tomorrow's leaders.

Please make your tax-deductible gift now and help us launch the inaugural National Civics Bee in New Jersey!

➡️ DONATE NOW

Thank you for being a vital partner in advancing our mission.

Newark, NJ — [December 1, 2025] — The Renaissance Newark Foundation (RNF), the 501(c)(3) affiliate of the Newark Regional Business Partnership (NRBP), the premier chamber of commerce serving the Greater Newark region, today announced its inaugural involvement as a Regional Partner in the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s 2026 National Civics Bee®. RNF is the first institution in New Jersey to be selected to serve in this capacity, marking a significant step toward bolstering civic engagement among the state's middle school students.

The National Civics Bee® is an impactful national initiative aimed at boosting the civic knowledge, skills, and disposition of middle school students across the United States. It works through a network of state and local chambers and nonprofit organizations, helping to elevate civics as a national priority.

Rutgers Democracy Lab at the Eagleton Institute of Politics will serve as this year's State Partner. RNF, as the Regional Partner, will host a Regional Competition, while the State Partner will host the subsequent State Finals, creating an exciting pathway for student recognition.

Ferlanda Fox Nixon, who heads RNF and is the President and CEO of NRBP, expressed RNF's motivation for participating:
“The Renaissance Newark Foundation is participating in the National Civics Bee® because we believe that informed and active citizens strengthen our country, economy, and workforce, and that our continued prosperity depends on the vitality of all three. Through this initiative, we are promoting greater civic knowledge in New Jersey and celebrating our civic pride.”

RNF encourages eligible students to participate in this enriching competition.
•Who Can Enter: Any 6th, 7th, or 8th grade student residing in New Jersey with an idea about using civics to improve their community may apply.
•Deadline: All applications must be submitted by Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Hawaii Time.
•How to Apply: For more details about the application process, students should visit the official U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation website: https://civics.uschamberfoundation.org/ncb-how-it-works/ or visit www.nationalcivicsbee.org for the latest news, entry deadlines, and resources.

Students selected for the Regional Competition will compete for significant cash prizes:
Placement           Minimum Cash Prize
1st Place              $500
2nd Place             $250
3rd Place              $125

The date, time, and venue of the Regional Competitions are yet to be determined but will occur between March 20, 2026, and May 23, 2026.

About the Renaissance Newark Foundation
The Renaissance Newark Foundation (RNF) is the 501(c)(3) affiliate of the Newark Regional Business Partnership, the premier chamber of commerce serving the Greater Newark region. RNF is dedicated to supporting initiatives that promote economic growth, community development, and civic vitality in the region. www.newarkrbp.org/rnf

About the National Civics Bee®
The National Civics Bee® is made possible through the generous support of its founding partner, the Daniels Fund, as well as the Beth and Ravenel Curry Foundation, Carnegie Corporation of New York, Citizen Travelers, Fisher Global Foundation, Ibis Group, The Anschutz Foundation, Wilson Garling Foundation, and other funders. civics.uschamberfoundation.org/national-civics-bee/

Newark, NJ — November 5, 2025 — The Newark Regional Business Partnership (NRBP) convened business, government, and community leaders for its annual Regional Economic Outlook program on October 30, 2025.  Held at NJIT, this program explored what’s trending and what’s on the horizon for business in 2026. In addition to providing an update on NJ’s economy overall, this year’s program spotlighted how arts, entertainment, sports, and hospitality are driving growth across New Jersey — with the Greater Newark region emerging as a premier destination for both visitors and investors. This year’s Regional Economic Outlook was sponsored by TD Bank, the Martin Tuchman School of Management at NJIT, Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of NJ, and Invest Newark.
 

Economic Update: New Jersey’s Steady Growth
The program opened with an economic report from Roseanne Elcenko, Assistant Director of Economic and Demographic Research at the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development, who provided a data-driven look at statewide and regional trends— noting that while spending patterns and job growth have shifted, the state’s economy remains on firm ground.
 
Elcenko explained that higher-income households are driving nearly half of all consumer spending, while lower-income consumers are becoming more cautious — a trend described as a “K-shaped” economy, in which outcomes diverge sharply by income level. “Consumers are changing how they consume goods and services,” she said, emphasizing that these shifts are reshaping business behavior and demand across sectors.
 
As of August 2025, New Jersey’s economy has added approximately 164,000 jobs (+3.9%) since February 2020, while the Newark Metro Division gained 38,800 jobs (+2.4%) during the same period. Over the past year, the state has averaged monthly employment gains of roughly 3,000 jobs.
 
Elcenko also noted that the availability of new data has been impacted by the recent federal government shutdown, making near-term analysis more complex.  Available indicators show that New Jersey’s unemployment rate is 5%, compared to 4% nationally, and the quit rate is 1.5%, suggesting that workers are not broadly confident they can easily find comparable or better jobs.  Even so, Elcenko underscored that New Jersey’s economic foundation remains “stable and firm.” Inflation has eased to 3%, job creation continues at a sustainable pace, and employers are adapting to a more measured but balanced environment.  Her assessment set an encouraging tone for the remainder of the program, which highlighted how sectors like arts, culture, sports, and hospitality are building on that stability to drive continued growth and opportunity across the Greater Newark region.

Creative Industries Powering Economic Development
The program continued with a panel discussion, moderated by Suzanne Ishee, Director of the NJIT Hub for Creative Placemaking, featuring leaders shaping Newark’s continued cultural and economic renaissance: Marcus Randolph, CEO of Invest Newark; Ashley Mays, President of Newark Happening; Antonio Valla, Co-Founder of Have You Met Newark Tours; and Vince Baglivo, Executive Director of the Ironbound Business Improvement District.
 
Panelists emphasized how collaboration, creativity, and community engagement are fueling Newark’s growth. Mays highlighted the city’s “unprecedented alignment and collaboration,” pointing to the recently launched Festivals United initiative as a model for strengthening the local cultural landscape. “We’re standing on the shoulders of those who came before us,” she said, “and now there’s real momentum.”
 
Randolph underscored the city’s shifting demographics and growing demand for authentic local experiences. “People want to engage with the city in meaningful ways, and there’s a sense that everyone is moving in the same direction — focused, concentrated efforts to ensure residents can participate in Newark’s growth,” he said.
 
Panelists also highlighted the rise of experiential tourism as a driver of economic activity. Baglivo explained that visitors come to Newark for more than events themselves: “People don’t necessarily go into the stadium to see the World Cup game — they come for the experience. My wife isn’t a big sports fan, but she enjoys the atmosphere and pre-game energy. Visitors are looking for unique experiences — the best coffee, croissant, you fill in the blank. We have things in Newark that NYC doesn't have or doesn't offer.”  Valla added that the city’s cultural infrastructure is expanding rapidly: “In the Arts and Education District, The Vault is open, Consigliere is open — these are new places that weren’t here last year, adding to the city’s vibrancy and appeal.”
 
Mays highlighted how creative partnerships are translating into tangible economic impact. A recent post-concert activation in collaboration with local eatery Just Delicious increased sales by more than 35%, demonstrating the potential for small businesses to engage with the city’s cultural ecosystem.
Looking ahead, panelists agreed that the 2026 FIFA World Cup presents an unprecedented opportunity. Randolph emphasized the urgency of preparation: “It’s almost too late. There are endless opportunities for local service providers and entrepreneurs to connect and engage — from food and beverage to entertainment and hospitality.”
 
Together, the panel painted a picture of a city leveraging creativity, culture, and collaboration to drive economic growth, attract new audiences, and strengthen its inclusive, thriving community.
 
Film and Television: A Growing Economic Engine
The program concluded with a presentation on New Jersey’s film and television industry from David Schoner, Assistant Director of the New Jersey Motion Picture and Television Commission, highlighting the sector’s growing impact on the state and Newark in particular.
 
Film production in New Jersey generated $833 million in qualified spending in 2024, an all-time high, creating more than 30,000 jobs statewide and positioning the state as one of the fastest-growing production hubs in the country.
 
Schoner emphasized that Newark has emerged as a central hub for film production, workforce development, and small business engagement. The city recently received a $750,000 grant for workforce training through the NJ Film Works initiative, creating pathways to union membership and supporting middle-class career development. “Newark is film-ready,” Schoner said. “We have the crews, the vendors, and the infrastructure to keep this industry growing.”
 
Local businesses are benefiting directly from production activity. Catering companies, logistics providers, security services, and other vendors are seeing new economic opportunities, while small businesses are finding creative ways to engage with productions. Schoner shared an example of a local shop supplying $19,000 worth of balloons for a recent production, demonstrating how even unexpected goods and services are fueling local commerce.
 
Newark’s designation as a certified Film Ready community ensures that productions know what to expect and that local businesses and workforce are prepared to meet industry demands. Combined with the city’s cultural assets and growing infrastructure, this positioning is attracting filmmakers from across the U.S. and around the world, generating jobs, tourism, and media attention that amplify Newark’s creative economy.
 
Adding to this momentum, the NJEDA recently designated Paramount Global as a Studio Partner, following the company’s announcement that it would lease more than 285,000 square feet of production space at 1888 Studios in Bayonne. This designation, which makes Paramount eligible for a 40 percent base tax credit on qualified production expenses, reflects New Jersey’s ability to attract leading global media companies and underscores the state’s growing prominence as a national center for film and television production.
 
A Flourishing Future
The Regional Economic Outlook highlighted that New Jersey’s economy remains stable and resilient, supported by steady job growth, moderate inflation, and evolving consumer demand. Within this broader context, Newark continues to strengthen its position as a creative hub, where festivals, placemaking, and creative industries are fueling economic development and community revitalization.
 
About the Newark Regional Business Partnership (NRBP)
The Newark Regional Business Partnership is the premier chamber of commerce serving the Greater Newark region. NRBP’s mission is to strengthen the business community through connections, resources, and advocacy. The organization represents hundreds of corporations, small businesses, nonprofit organizations, and educational institutions dedicated to fostering economic vitality and competitiveness in Newark and the surrounding metropolitan area. www.newarkrbp.org

Newark, NJ — October 21, 2025 — The Newark Regional Business Partnership (NRBP) hosted the inaugural sessions of its new Leadership Roundtable series on October 15 and 16, providing an exclusive forum for members to engage directly with New Jersey’s gubernatorial candidate, Jack Ciattarelli, and Lt. Governor candidate, Dr. Dale G. Caldwell.
 
The October 15 session was an intimate gathering held at Makerhoods in the Springfield-Belmont neighborhood of Newark.  Attendees included representatives from Audible, IPS Security, Makerhoods, NJIT, and Citizens Bank.  Caldwell, President of Centenary University and candidate for Lieutenant Governor, attended on behalf of Mikie Sherrill’s campaign. Demonstrating his deep roots in Newark, he frequently referenced his previous work in the city, highlighting its many neighborhoods (at least 14) and attractive qualities.  This wide-ranging conversation highlighted Caldwell’s community-driven approach and outlined initiatives to support small businesses and nonprofits—sectors that employ more than half of New Jersey’s residents.
 
During the discussion, Guy Navarro, EVP of IPS Security, asked about plans to increase affordable housing for veterans. Caldwell noted that he and gubernatorial candidate Sherrill would explore opportunities around vacant office parks, adding that “veterans are top of mind.”  Later in the discussion, in response to a question about initiatives to keep seniors in the state, Caldwell noted that the administration would “increase ratables and try new programs.”
 
Other topics included overall accountability and transparency within government agencies, the development of a small business dashboard, education and literacy, and the economic potential of global events like FIFA World Cup 26™. Throughout the program, Caldwell emphasized a collaborative, solutions-focused approach to economic and social challenges.
 
Ferlanda Fox Nixon, President and CEO of NRBP, asked how chambers of commerce like NRBP could continue these conversations under the Sherrill administration should she be elected. Caldwell highlighted his prior work supporting family businesses, noting potential opportunities to match family businesses with talented leaders in cases where the next generation does not wish to take over.
 
The October 16 session, held in Roseland at the law offices of Chiesa Shahinian & Giantomasi PC (CSG), featured Jack Ciattarelli, candidate for Governor, who outlined his vision for making New Jersey a more efficient and business-friendly state. Attendees included representatives from Audible, CSG, IPS Security, CBRE, NJIT, TD Bank, Essex County College, United Airlines, and Brilliant Smiles Pediatric Dentistry. He discussed reducing the size of state government, lowering business taxes, and establishing a Department of Energy to ensure a rational energy transition.
 
Transportation emerged as a recurring topic during the discussion, highlighting its importance to New Jersey’s economic and urban development.  Barbara E. Kauffman, Director of Corporate Relations at NJIT’s Martin Tuchman School of Management, asked whether federal funding for the Gateway Tunnel Project would continue. Ciattarelli emphasized that “we are completing the Hudson Tunnel…. It's a quintessential federal infrastructure project.” He further shared that since “this project is under the GDC [Gateway Development Commission] and the GDC has money, they can continue work for a time and seek reimbursement later.” He also shared plans to create the Garden State Transportation Authority, consolidating New Jersey’s transportation systems under one chief executive officer to improve accountability and management.
 
Later in the program, Dr. Suffiyah Webb, owner of Brilliant Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, asked how the administration would support small businesses like hers. Ciattarelli highlighted proposals to exempt the first $100,000 of small business income from taxes and the first $100,000 of payroll from employer payroll taxes.
 
Both Caldwell and Ciattarelli were asked about New Jersey’s Disparity Study and its implications for minority- and women-owned businesses. Each emphasized the need for greater transparency, accountability, and equitable access to state contracts. Caldwell highlighted the importance of fair processes and strategic public-private partnerships, while Ciattarelli discussed looking to New York City for best practices and creating a chief procurement officer and chief business opportunity officer to ensure minority- and women-owned businesses receive timely payments and better access to capital. Both underscored their commitment to addressing longstanding disparities and supporting inclusive economic growth.
 
The Leadership Roundtable series is designed to foster intimate, high-impact dialogue among business leaders and policy influencers. Through peer-to-peer learning and strategic discussion, members gain actionable insights into the challenges and opportunities shaping today’s business environment. This series is an exclusive benefit for NRBP members in the Innovator tier and above, offering a unique opportunity to engage with high-level leaders and peers in a collaborative, solutions-focused setting. 
 
“I commend NRBP for offering the Leadership Roundtable Series as a members-only benefit and for hosting both gubernatorial candidates — Dr. Dale Caldwell, representing Mikie Sherrill, and Jack Ciattarelli. Sessions such as these are extremely beneficial in better informing the business community,” said Kauffman, whose organization, NJIT, is a member of NRBP at the Visionary tier level.
 
“Hosting these Leadership Roundtable sessions underscores NRBP’s commitment to connecting business leaders with policymakers who shape the economic landscape of our region,” said Nixon. “NRBP’s Leadership Roundtable discussions provide members with direct access to thought leaders and changemakers shaping Newark and the region’s future. These intimate conversations go beyond surface-level dialogue, offering a deep dive into the complex issues driving business, policy, and community development today.

Photo credits: NRBP/Kings Likeness LLC
 
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About the Newark Regional Business Partnership (NRBP)
The Newark Regional Business Partnership is the premier chamber of commerce serving the Greater Newark region. NRBP’s mission is to strengthen the business community through connections, resources, and advocacy. The organization represents hundreds of corporations, small businesses, nonprofit organizations, and educational institutions dedicated to fostering economic vitality and competitiveness in Newark and the surrounding metropolitan area. www.newarkrbp.org
 

Newark, NJ – September 30, 2025 – The Newark Regional Business Partnership (NRBP), the premier chamber of commerce serving the Greater Newark region, today announced the launch of its new Vanguard Tier of individual membership. This new offering is specifically designed to provide high-value professional development and networking opportunities for ambitious individuals who are not connected through an existing corporate or organizational membership.
The Vanguard Tier marks a strategic commitment by NRBP to invest directly in the human capital driving Greater Newark’s future economic success. It is tailored for professionals and individuals whose primary interest is personal and professional acceleration and community engagement.

The tier is ideal for:

• Emerging Leaders working at companies that are not yet NRBP members, but who require exposure to high-level regional strategy and leadership networks.
• Independent Professionals seeking community, mentorship, and resources without focusing on business promotion.
• Talented Individuals in Career Transition who are eager to build powerful connections and cement their path in the Newark business ecosystem.

"For decades, NRBP has served as the anchor for established business growth and a catalyst for regional development. The launch of the Vanguard Tier is an intentional effort to cultivate the next wave of leadership," said Ferlanda Fox Nixon, President and CEO of NRBP. "By offering direct access to our network, we are ensuring that the most committed and promising individuals in our community are connected, trained, and ready to become our future partners and collaborators. The Vanguard Tier isn't just a membership, it's a commitment to rising talent."

Vanguard members receive benefits designed to support their individual journey, including:

• Elevated Networking Access: Members gain access to all public NRBP events at the exclusive member rate and are welcomed into select member-only events, providing unique opportunities to interact and build relationships with existing leaders and decision-makers across the region.
• Targeted Professional Development: Members are invited to participate in NRBP’s quarterly professional development webinars, which provide valuable, members-only resources designed to sharpen skills and provide continuous career enhancement.

The annual investment for the Vanguard Tier is $225, plus a one-time $25 application fee. Applicants must complete the Vanguard Application using a personal email address.

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About the Newark Regional Business Partnership (NRBP)
The Newark Regional Business Partnership is the premier chamber of commerce serving the Greater Newark region. NRBP’s mission is to strengthen the business community through connections, resources, and advocacy. The organization represents hundreds of corporations, small businesses, nonprofit organizations, and educational institutions dedicated to fostering economic vitality and competitiveness in Newark and the surrounding metropolitan area. www.newarkrbp.org

Newark, NJ (August 19, 2025) – The Newark Regional Business Partnership (NRBP) and its 501(c)(3) affiliate, the Renaissance Newark Foundation (RNF), partnered this summer with pocstock, an NRBP member and Newark-based content and data company, to host a hands-on creative internship program for five students. The initiative was made possible through the  City of Newark’s Summer Youth Employment Program  (SYEP), an initiative of the Newark Workforce Development Board, also a member of NRBP, which connects teenagers and young adults with enriching work opportunities.
 
Over the course of the summer, students gained firsthand experience in photography, videography, and content production—both in pocstock’s studios and out in the Newark community. Guided by pocstock’s professional team, interns explored every stage of the creative process, from concept development and location scouting to camera operation, intellectual property, and preparing content for use as AI data.
 
“This collaboration reflects the very heart of NRBP and the Renaissance Newark Foundation’s missions,” said NRBP’s President and CEO Ferlanda Fox Nixon. “By connecting our members with opportunities to support young people, we are strengthening Newark’s economic competitiveness today while preparing the next generation for success tomorrow. Programs like this demonstrate how education, hands-on experience, and civic participation can come together to fuel growth and create lasting pathways of opportunity for our community.”
 
For Derrick Larane, Chief Operating Officer at pocstock, the program reflects both a personal commitment and the company’s values: “I was once an intern, and that experience set the tone for my career. Internships work and they matter. pocstock is all about partnership, and as a member of the Newark business community, it’s important for us to collaborate with organizations like NRBP to leverage our strengths and create programs that make a real impact.”
 
To support the program, Reworld™, a leader in sustainable waste solutions and a member of NRBP, generously donated funds to RNF. This donation enabled the purchase of professional production equipment used by the interns throughout the summer.

“Just as we work to create carbon-negative outcomes that support our business and community partners, we also believe strongly in investing in the next generation,” says Aja Alexander, Community Relations Specialist, Reworld™. “Supporting this program allowed us to provide students with the tools and opportunities to unlock their creativity while building confidence and career skills. We are proud to partner with NRBP, RNF, and pocstock to help open doors for Newark’s young people and empower them to become future leaders and innovators.”
 
Guided by pocstock’s experienced professionals, including Nicole Richardson, Content and Production Coordinator, and Steven Russell, Head of Content, students received personalized instruction and mentorship. The team’s approach fostered both technical growth and creative confidence.
 
“I loved getting to teach them something new, learn about their aspirations and interests, and expose them to the possibilities of what they can do next,” shared Richardson.
 
Russell emphasized the mutual benefits of the program: “The students have a great energy that is intoxicating to be around. Once they’re given the tools to create, experiment, and even make mistakes, you see their personalities emerge. Working with these students benefits us just as much as it benefits them. I hope they carry these skills and do something cool, even if they ultimately do not want to be photographers or videographers.”
 
The impact of the program is best captured in the words of the students themselves, who reflected on what the opportunity meant to them.

• Emily Ramos: “This internship was very hands-on, and that was my favorite part.  We learned about lighting, editing, and the full lifecycle of content creation. It gave me practice for my career, strengthened my confidence, and even let me use a real camera for the first time. I felt comfortable here—it was welcoming and fun.”
• Jasion Davis: “This was a lot of fun. I participated in SYEP last year, but this year I was more engaged because the work was so hands-on. I learned how to use a camera and tools like a reflector. It was a good experience working in a production studio.”
• Kobe Edmonds: “This was a different experience for me. I’ve had other jobs, but this one was interactive and fun. I liked being around the camera and serving as a production manager on the commercials.”
• Solomon Simmons: “This was my first internship, and I want to do it again next year. I learned about composition, lighting, and how to be creative while working with others. It helped me develop new skills and gave me the chance to get paid while doing something I enjoyed.”
• Holland Brown: “I haven’t had many jobs, but I liked this one. Everyone was respectful, and I enjoyed meeting the other interns. Photography was new to me, but it was cool.”

 
This summer’s internship program not only built skills to prepare the interns for a possible future in content production and AI industries, but also created lasting memories for the students, mentors, and partners who made it possible.
 
 
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About Newark Regional Business Partnership
Newark Regional Business Partnership (NRBP) is the premier chamber of commerce serving the Greater Newark region. NRBP’s mission is to strengthen the business community through connections, resources, and advocacy. The organization connects its members to partners and resources that can help strengthen their business and increase the economic competitiveness of Newark and the region. For more information, visit www.newarkrbp.org
 
About pocstock
pocstock is a content and data company at the intersection of culture, creativity, and technology. The company provides authentic photography, video, and datasets that represent people of color across the full range of human diversity.  Headquartered in Newark, NJ, pocstock’s mission is to help companies tell more inclusive stories and build stronger connections with their audiences. For more information, visit www.pocstock.com