Urban Arts teaches underrepresented students the art and technology of digital game development through computer science, coding, animation, music, and storytelling. We connect our alumni to mentorship opportunities at leading media and technology companies, generating a new and diverse talent pipeline.

People who are mentored during core years of early professional development are 130% more likely to end up in leadership positions.

Mabel came with her mother and sister to the U.S. from the Dominican Republic in 2014. “When I heard about Urban Arts, I had never thought what was possible for a Hispanic woman in this field.” Mabel is now a freshman at Fordham University. “My main support system has always been my mom because we came to the United States together when I didn’t know anyone and the language was new. Because college would require a new environment all over again. having an extended community was very important to me.” Mabel’s Urban Arts mentor, Chad Rocco, of Amazon Game Studios, is a powerful part of that community.

“During the pandemic, I was mentored by Chad. He has worked for the country’s leading game publishers as the head of narrative departments. We still talk to this day. He has taught me many valuable lessons about life and about myself. He even wrote my recommendation letter for large scholarships.”

Chad continues to be a source of career connectivity for her. “I can’t wait to see what Mabel does next,” says Chad. “I hope I can keep being part of the team that makes good things happen for her.”

Urban Arts now stewards hundreds of mentorships for our advanced students and alumni with dedicated professionals from a variety of industries. We know it is a critical piece of long-lasting success.

If you give $250 today, you will allow Urban Arts to pair another young adult like Mabel in an 8-week, 1:1 mentorship.