The program was created to provide non-traditional pathways for the next generation of underrepresented creators, offering mentorship, scholarship opportunities and career pathing. This year's program focused on empowering and providing graduating students with a simulated experience of working at a marketing agency.

For the first time, the Pencil Project included actual clients, elevating the program's impact. Students collaborated with Shea Moisture and Target in partnership with Unilever, tackling business challenges and creating strategic solutions.

"This year, we made it bigger and better than ever," said Kelvin Hill, Associate Creative Director and Copywriter at Arc Worldwide, who served as the executive professor of this year’s group. "By involving actual clients and projects, we provided students with invaluable, real-life agency training."

The students were organized into groups, each representing their own agency, and worked closely with internal strategists and creative professionals. This mentorship helped nurture their ideas, giving them a true taste of the marketing world. The culmination of their efforts was a presentation to agency leadership and clients, offering real-time feedback.

"Participating in the Pencil Project is incredibly valuable. It allows us to support the next generation of creative talent, while helping to shape their fresh perspectives and strategic thinking in preparation for the next steps in their career,” says Jenny Roesner, Unilever Sr. Manager Shopper Marketing.

In addition to gaining hands-on experience and creating portfolio-worthy projects, participating students were awarded a collective $25,000 in scholarships. This financial support aims to further their education and careers, providing a solid foundation for their professional journeys.

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Since the Pencil Project Trust Fund’s inception, Leo Burnett has funded over $75,000 dollars of scholarships for aspiring creative talent.

To donate, visit The Pencil Project Fund.