Explore our Arts Academy
Enroll in Summer 2026 Classes
Our Summer 2026 classes for ages 8 to 18 are open for registration and are available as in-person classes in Washington, DC.
Innovative Hip-hop C
urriculum
Join our creative arts classes to propel your career as a DJ, fashion designer, music producer, radio broadcaster, artist, or poet.
Academy Spotlights
Mariah Barber
Teaches: Poetry
Mariah “Beyond Your Definition” Barber is a multidisciplinary storyteller, spoken word artist, international host and activist that has been creating social justice oriented art for the last 15 years. In 2022 BYD ranked 20th in the women of the world poetry slam and 19th in the stonewall international queer poetry slam.
Oscar Jamaal
Teaches: Stop Motion Photography
Oscar Jamaal is a filmmaker, educator, and digital arts professional. With 20 years of experience working with urban youth, Jamaal brings his experience in creating video content to the classroom. He uses storytelling and film production as tools to empower students to create their own stories.
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Check out what we accomplished in 2025 with this rap-up video from Trus real.
WBL MEDIA
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The Counterbalance Blog
The Boom-Bot Era“How Stealthing and Streamyards have changed the game…”
Back in the day….
It was about moving units. Records sold. The way the game worked, you had to get people to cop that tape, that record or that cd. Now? You just need them to listen. And then–like it; a lot. The digital age means that nobody owns their music anymore.
Turn Up the Volume: An Interview with Our Beat Production and DJ Class Instructors
Music education is essential for helping students reach their full potential. Our instructors are passionate about providing students with the tools they need to succeed both academically and personally. Check out our exclusive interview with our beat production and DJ class instructors to learn more about the importance of music education in schools and the transformative power it can have on young people.
How do we keep our Nations' Leaders Accountable | kNOw new leaders
Join Words Beats & Life Inc.’s Founder and Executive Director, Mazi Mutafa, and the hosts as they talk about what accountability looks like for leaders, educators, celebrities, etc. in the sixteenth episode of kNOw new leaders.
