"Ask for a passport instead of
a pair of Jordans for Christmas.
That passport will take you
way farther in life."
- Gerrard Allen
NEW Book Release
#50 Things For Black Teens to Experience Before Graduating High School
The #50 Things for Black Teens Experience is designed to remove barriers to success, equipping teens with essential skills to confidently navigate their high school journey. This book serves as a guide for tackling everyday challenges, allowing teens to focus their energy on growth and opportunity with greater ease.
Inside every teen is a unique genius waiting to emerge—but without foundational skills, that potential can stay hidden. With this guide, teens gain the tools to unlock their true selves, empowering them to thrive and make the most of their high school experience.
Purchase the book today to bring this transformative experience to your school or community and be part of empowering every Black teen.
Together, let’s build a future where every Black teen thrives.
#30 - Learn How to Interact During a Traffic Stop
9th Grader
College Grad Perspective
Priya MSU Grad, former student and #50 things advisor.
#26 - Navigate Your City Without GPS
9th Grader
MEET GERRARD:
THE EDPRENEUR
With over 15 years of experience, Gerrard W. Allen is committed to equipping Black teens with the confidence and skills to thrive. From his roots as an English teacher and College Advisor in Detroit to leading as Dean of Culture, he has dedicated his career to guiding youth toward leadership and resilience. Gerrard’s global perspective, gained as a Foreign Lead Teacher in Beijing, now enriches his mission to empower Black teens through real-world experiences—helping them embrace opportunities, overcome challenges, and build a path to success.
Mentorship that Transforms Minds
Gerrard is more than an educator—he’s a dedicated mentor who guides Black teens to unlock their full potential. Through his mentorship, he empowers young people with the confidence, skills, and tools needed to navigate life's challenges and seize opportunities. Gerrard’s approach is rooted in understanding each teen’s unique strengths and providing practical guidance in areas like self-advocacy, leadership, and real-world problem-solving. His commitment goes beyond academics, helping teens explore career paths, develop meaningful connections, and build a foundation for lifelong success. With Gerrard as a mentor, teens don’t just learn—they grow, thrive, and discover their own genius.
What Teens are Saying
I think the presentation was good and well organized and it gave advice and awareness about things to expect and experience in life and asked to share opinions on different topics on it. Overall I think it was a fun and interactive experience and I don’t think any changes are needed.
I think this was a great experience. I loved Mr. Allen’s introduction it was really nice. I would love to do something like this again.
I enjoyed this experience, and I think it helped some of us who may be adjusting to the high-school life. It also may help kids who will be going to the 9th grade next year. I also think that Mr. Allen should hold an assembly with the middle schoolers, because they can benefit from his book.
