THE HHC NETWORK BUREAU
The HHC Network Bureau is a specific membership-based affiliation of hip hop educators, musical artists, dance & movement artists, visual & graphic artists, DJs, and any creative individuals committed to using their talent(s) to share their knowledge and expertise in service to others.
HHC members are supported by Hip Hop Congress, Inc. through membership benefits that include booking workshops, trainings, performances and speaking engagements to audiences of all ages and backgrounds. HHC members are encouraged to collaborate with each other and share resources to help expand the perception of the "Artist" to that of "cultural worker."
HHC members are supported by Hip Hop Congress, Inc. through membership benefits that include booking workshops, trainings, performances and speaking engagements to audiences of all ages and backgrounds. HHC members are encouraged to collaborate with each other and share resources to help expand the perception of the "Artist" to that of "cultural worker."
Hip Hop Congress Bureau Members
Dr. Tina WRIGHT, PH.D - Educator
Los Angeles, CA
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KRISTINE (TINA) WRIGHT is an educator/sociologist, specializing in African American studies, social stratification (race, class, and gender), urban education, media, and popular culture. As an undergraduate, she attended UCLA and graduated with degrees in both Communication Studies (media emphasis) and Afro-American Studies. She received her doctorate in Sociology from the University of California, Irvine in 2005 and is currently a tenured faculty member at Los Angeles Southwest College. She has taught for 25 plus years at all levels of the California public school system: K-12, community colleges, California State University and the University of California. Dr. Wright is a trailblazing hip hop scholar in academia, creating one of the first hip hop centered Sociology courses at a R1 university in 2000. She is also a noted commentator and has been invited to speak at numerous events to discuss hip hop, race, class, gender, media, youth political mobilization, and social justice more broadly. Wright is also the administrator and co-trustee of UTN, a 501(c)3 charity supporting service minded individuals and community organizations working to empower Black/Brown communities through hip hop pedagogy, cultural literacy, media literacy, and community activism/artivism. She has also published a book, 360°: A Blueprint to Black Self-Determination. 360° provides a hip-hop centered analysis of society’s racialized history and a blueprint to actualize Black liberation.
In terms of her personal passion for hip hop, Wright states: “While I grew up with hip hop (literally) and will forever appreciate its artistic expressions, for me hip hop has and always will be foremost about the people it represents and our struggle for cultural, social and political freedom.” |
RAHMAN JAMAAL - Emcee/Actor, Musician, Teaching Artist, Martial Artist, Educator, Entrepreneur
Redwood City, CA
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Rahman Jamaal is widely known for starring in the 2003 Sundance Film Festival feature "The Beat" alongside his work throughout the Bay Area as a teaching artist for his company Rap Force Academy, community organizing activities through Hip Hop Congress, and his role as host/MC of the Adrenaline World Games [CBS Sportsnet]. He has pioneered California state-standards-approved curriculum for local schools and counties for two decades, helping launch the country's first statewide educational initiative for Hip Hop-based education.
As the owner of Afro Bushido Academy, SPC, Rahman Jamaal (McCreadie) carries over 35 years experience and 25 years as Black Belt instructor, receiving his 5th (Master) Degree in Bok Fu Do from Master James Kane in October 2022. He is a lifetime martial artist who has competed as a finalist in the NASKA professional Black Belt divisions and was a member of the 2016 WKA Team USA Team. His competitive experience includes full-contact kickboxing, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, point sparring, continuous sparring, creative forms, creative weapons, and team demonstration. |
EMILE YX? - Bboy, EMCEE, DJ, GraffIti Writer, Author, Playwright, Activist
Capetown, South Africa
Atlanta, GA |
Emile YX? is a B-boy, Artist, Activist, Playwright, Author, Teacher and multiple award-winning South African Hip Hop Pioneer (1982), founder of Black Noise Hip Hop Group (1988) and Heal The Hood Project (1998). He created South Africa’s 1st Hip Hop Magazine called Da Juice. He won 3rd place at the World Breakdance Champs, Battle Of The Year in (1997), and has raised funds to send more than 250 young artists to international Hip Hop events. He has recorded and released 27 albums, 14 solo, 13 with Black Noise and wrote and contributed to 24 books like Neva Again and Reconnect The String, in addition to creating and performing in 5 plays including the award-winner, Afrikaaps.
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ANITA T - Poet, Writer, Organizer
Austin, TX
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Anita joined Hip Hop Congress in 2004 during her freshman year of college. In her time there she hosted the National conference in 2007, produced a 30 minute magazine show entitled Sauti and held multiple Hip Hop events on and off campus. She attended Ohio University in Athens, Ohio majoring in African American Studies, Women's Studies and Sociology with a focus in Media. Post graduation she participated and became host of Poetry Matters, a creative circle for poets, artists and writers to come fellowship addressing community issues through art. Anita moved to Austin, Texas in 2019 where she continues her work as an Activist, Thought Leader and historian.
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De FRANCO BROCKS - Emcee, Author, Community Organizer
Los Angeles, CA
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Co-Founder of the Black and Brown Movement / Co-CEO of Hip Hop 4 the Pih Poh / Affiliated with Artists United to End Homelessness / Author of "The Birth of a Movement" / Artist, activist, artivist / most importantly, a concerned and committed individual to the betterment of Hip Hop and humanity.
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Lonnie "PopTart" Green - Founder of The Strutters Room, Dancer/Choreographer, Cultural Preservationist
San Francisco, CA
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Lonnie "PopTart" Green aka "The Fillmore Kid" was raised in Hunter's Point at the dawn of the Black Power movement in 1967 and moved to Fillmore in 1978 where he would catch the eye of Strutting founder Deborah Johnson aka “Granny”, who entrusted Lonnie to preserve Strutting culture for future generations. As Hip Hop hit the West Coast in the early 1980’s, Lonnie evolved into “PopTart”, a professional dancer/choreographer and first international ambassador to teach Strutting outside of the U.S. in Canada and later throughout Europe and Asia.
Known for his extensive experience in performing at live events, notable sold out showcases include: Inauguration Day in San Francisco, California USA (January 8, 1996), featuring San Francisco’s own musician, Carlos Santana, Oakland A’s vs L.A. Dodger’s baseball game; University of Pacific vs UCLA Football Game in 1979, & Sugar Hill Gang concert (Bill Graham auditorium). Lonnie “PopTart” Green’s stage experience extends from blazing the stage with Vanity of Prince’s female Soul/Pop music group Vanity 6, to Hip-Hop’s one and only teacher KRS-ONE. He has experience as a Dancer/Choreographer in over 23 music videos; to name a few: Digital Underground, Rappin 4 Tay, Oaktown 357 and MC Hammer. Lonnie is the co-founder of The BRS Arts Alliance of Boogaloos, Robotters and Strutters and works as a master teacher, dancer/choreographer and event producer through Tart Productions International, LLC. |
MAURICe "SOULFIGHTER" Taylor - Emcee, Poet, DJ, Beatboxer, Organizer
Holyoke, MA
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Maurice Taylor, a.k.a. Poet Soulfighter, uses culture to encourage healing and address the social and political issues that plague communities. For the last 30 years Poet Soulfighter has been developing spaces and platforms to encourage healing through cultural expression and open and respectful dialogue. He is the founder of Poetic Recovery Cultural Exchange: An Open Mic and cultural space where different artists connect for cultural exchange and encourage healing to facilitate connecting, build community, and cultural healing through reading, writing, and cultural expression.
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BRIAN OTIENO OWINO - Dancer, Emcee, Organizer
Nairobi, Kenya
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Motivated Mindset Dancers is a community-based organization located in the heart of Mathare slum, Nairobi. Our primary focus is on empowering children, teens, and youths through mentorship, education, and providing a safe space for them to thrive. The Motivated Mindset Dancers Studio serves as a sanctuary for those seeking guidance, support, and a sense of belonging in a world that often feels chaotic and uncertain.
In a place where poverty and violence are daily realities, our mission at Motivated Mindset Dancers is to instill hope, confidence, and resilience in the young people of Mathare slum. Through the power of dance, we aim to inspire creativity, discipline, and a strong work ethic in our students, helping them to break free from the cycle of poverty and violence that plagues their community. At Motivated Mindset Dancers, we believe that every child has the potential to achieve greatness, regardless of their circumstances. By providing a nurturing and supportive environment, we empower our students to dream big and work hard to make those dreams a reality. Through our mentorship programs, we offer guidance and support to help young people navigate the challenges they face, both in and out of the studio. Education is at the core of what we do at Motivated Mindset Dancers. We believe that knowledge is power, and we strive to equip our students with the tools they need to succeed academically and professionally. Through tutoring, workshops, and access to educational resources, we help our students excel in school and prepare for a bright future beyond the confines of the slum. In addition to mentorship and education, Motivated Mindset Dancers also serves as a rescue center for those in need. Whether it be a safe haven from violence, a hot meal, or a listening ear, our doors are always open to those seeking refuge and support. We work closely with local authorities and organizations to ensure the safety and well-being of our students, providing a lifeline for those in crisis. The impact of Motivated Mindset Dancers extends far beyond the walls of our studio. Through performances, community events, and outreach programs, we strive to raise awareness and inspire change in Mathare slum and beyond. By showcasing the talent and resilience of our students, we challenge stereotypes and break down barriers, proving that greatness can emerge from even the most challenging circumstances. As we look to the future, our vision for Motivated Mindset Dancers is one of growth, impact, and sustainability. We aim to expand our programs, reach more young people, and deepen our impact in the community. Through partnerships, fundraising, and the support of dedicated volunteers, we believe that we can continue to make a difference in the lives of those we serve. In conclusion, Motivated Mindset Dancers is more than just a dance studio – it is a beacon of hope, a source of inspiration, and a catalyst for change in Mathare slum. Through mentorship, education, and a commitment to empowering young people, we are helping to shape a brighter future for the next generation. Join us in our mission to empower, educate, and uplift the youth of Mathare slum – together, we can make a difference. |
ANTHONy Pineda - Poet, Author, Mental Health Professional
Mountain View, CA
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Anthony explores the intersection of education, mental health, technology, and creativity facilitating personal and professional development. Hip-hop is his passion and he believes in the power of knowledge and growth mindset. After taking steps to ensure the formation of Creatrix Institute LLC in California, Anthony spends his professional time in the fields of education and mental health providing programming celebrating hip-hop culture. Creatrix Institute LLC is an innovative company providing programing for youth targeting their own cultural knowledge and voice. Creatrix teaches youth how to access their voice through cultural music and enable skills development through technology.
Creatrix Institute has grown into an LLC, where more practitioners of the culture can come and build. With several major projects underway with partners in the south bay area, Anthony plans an expansion and designing new programs, supporting events, and taking it global. Anthony hopes that with our Hip-hop culture, we will find a place to grow, thrive, and find purpose. Anthony is out working to build relationships within the culture. Through community we can connect, build, and grow. Through Hip-hop we can find a way to teach, connect, and relate via our common connection to story |
LEON "AC" WILLIS - Aerosol Artist, Arts Educator, Martial Artist, Yoga Teacher
Sacramento, CA
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Mr. Willis mentors and offers internships to local high school students. He teaches youth life skills through the process of mass production using the medium of screen printing and the arts. For more than 20 years, Leon Willis, has used grassroots activism to educate people about socio-economic injustices and advocate solutions through HIP HOP culture. Mr. Willis is an aerosol artist, arts educator, black belt in the martial arts, and a yoga teacher. His unique approach to trauma-informed and mindfulness-based body movement is tailored to maximize healing, especially for the disenfranchised. Since 2013 he has been teaching ALPHABETEX, a form of body movement he created while incarcerated that combines graffiti art, martial arts, and conscious breathing as a tool for self-expression and conflict resolution.
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KING PRIZM - Hip Hop Cultural Specialist
South Bronx, New York
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(Chosen Zulu King) PRiZM, the Founder of ChosenHipHop.com, has over 30 years Experience as a Hip Hop Cultural Specialist & Youth Mentor with over 25 years in Motivational Speaking, Management, Marketing, Sales, Training & Development, Community Outreach , Youth Mentorship, Entrepreneur/Business Development and Personal and Professional Coaching.
Co-Founder of Chosen Zulu, Founder of Chosen Networks and Chosen Coaching and Consulting and Lead Coach and trainer, PRiZM is well known for his leadership in Hip Hop Advocacy, Youth Mentoring, Young Entrepreneur Assistance, Business & Career Consultation and Motivational Speaking. PRiZM has also been recognized for assistance in the development of young entrepreneurs, small businesses, non-profit and grassroots organizations, departments, workflow processes and employee performance. He brings a unique and diverse set of skills, training and experience to his coaching, training and consulting practice. His Mission is to Bring Out The Best Version of You and Your Family, To Help You Be CHOSEN. www.ChosenHipHop.com www.ChosenNetworks.com www.ChosenUniverse.com |
Cou'RAGE - Emcee, Mental Health Activist
Auburn, CA
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I work as an adolescent mental health provider. I also have a passion for suicide education and am on the board of directors for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.
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RAZA - Emcee, Producer, Motivational Speaker
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Auburn, CA
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Raza is an independent hip hop artist, producer, and motivational speaker from Auburn, California. Born and raised in the greater Sacramento area, Raza had a rough start to life and was in the foster care system by age one. It was within his experience as a youth in the system that Raza first experienced music as his safe place, in the form of a broken old keyboard that helped drown out the world. As the first person in his family to graduate college, Raza carries a Bachelor of Science in Audio Production from Full Sail University. He spends all of his time as an independent recording artist releasing fresh, original music that is identifiable for its deep lyricism and beats that make you want to move. When not making music in his studio, Raza can be found sharing his story and music in schools, juvenile halls, and at youth conferences to inspire others that they too can turn their pain into power by making positive choices now to shape the lives they want in the future.
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DJJ - Emcee, Songwriter, Youth Facilitator
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Auburn, CA
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D.J.J has one main goal, to be recognized in his community as a leader who did everything within his power to make a difference. I guess you can say that he is close to achieving that goal. The best way to explain D.J.J's music is that it's prevelant, relatable, powerful, motivational, inspirational, and empowering with a message of hope. Joseph's experience with bullying inspired him to touch on the topic in his music and go to different schools to speak about his experience and share his music that touches on his experience and his feelings on the topic itself. By putting himself out in the open, D.J.J has gained the respect of his peers, other artists he admires, and community organizations in and out of Auburn. With every song that D.J.J creates, he always gives a piece of him to the fans.
In a lot of cases, the only way to really enjoy an artist's music is if you can relate and connect with what they're saying in their songs cause of the experiences that they're speaking about in their songs. That is exactly what D.J.J aims to do with each song he puts together. Putting himself out in the battlefield and making himself vulnerable is how D.J.J has gained the love and respect of many people inside and outside of his hometown of Auburn. A lot of people look up to D.J.J because he stays true to himself, he's honest in his music, and he's always aiming to do the best he can to make his dreams a reality. |
BEnnett Roth-Newell - Emcee, Composer, Jazz Pianist, Music Educator
Redwood City, CA
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Bennett Roth-Newell is a jazz pianist, emcee, composer, and music educator. He has performed on multiple occasions at San Jose Jazz Summerfest and Winterfest, Yoshi’s, Shoreline Amphitheater, SFJazz, Great American Music Hall, Herbst Theater, Oakland Art & Soul Festival, Brick & Mortar Music Hall, Black Cat Jazz Club, The New Parish, and The National Black Theater Festival to name a few. His discography includes his full-length album “Grown,” (2022) the duo album “After You" (2015) alongside guitarist Mason Razavi, “The Bad Ones” (2016) self-titled debut album with 6 of his own compositions, and “Put It Out,” (2019) a 4-song hip-hop and jazz-influenced project.
As a music educator, Bennett has taught at Valley Christian High School, San Jose State University, Stanford Jazz Workshop, and currently serves as Music and Creative Arts Director at The Riekes Center in Menlo Park, CA and Adjunct Faculty in Jazz Piano at West Valley Community College. Bennett’s next album “It’ll Always Work Out” will be released in November 2024 and features all brand new compositions performed in a jazz piano trio setting. |
TRIGGA D BEATS - DJ, Producer, Disability Advocate
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Roseville, CA
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I have made beats, engineered, mixed and mastered for the 49ers Cal-Hi Sports Report at The Riekes Center in Menlo Park, California.
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Dave "Davey D" Cook - DJ, Journalist, College Professor, Author
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Dave "Davey D" Cook is a long time journalist, professor, DJ and Hip Hop historian who has co-authored the book Can’t Stop Won’t Stop (young adult edition) and has been featured in over 35 documentaries pertaining to Hip Hop music, culture and politics.
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