Next Level is an initiative of the U.S. Department of State, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and Meridian International Center. Its mission is to use Hip Hop music and dance to foster cross- cultural creative exchange in diverse communities.
Next Level works with U.S. embassies and consulates to create two-week residencies that reach underserved communities and youth. Teams of four American Hip Hop artist-educators collaborate with local organizations and musicians to facilitate workshops, lecture-demonstrations, and master classes, as well as formal and informal live performances. All activities are designed to promote the mutual sharing of knowledge, values, perspectives, and respect between local communities and American artists. Workshops, which span several hours each day, emphasize the development of musical and entrepreneurial skills and promote conflict transformation strategies. A final public performance concludes each residency, and professional-grade musical equipment is donated to local partners to encourage continued learning and growth.
In MAY 2023, five Hip Hop artists will travel to Ireland as part of the Next Level program. T.R.U.T.H (MC), Mike Manson (Dance), Akim Funk Buddha (Beatmaker), and Kaykay47 (DJ) will join site manager Dirty Digits to perform for audiences and collaborate with local artists to promote cross-cultural creative exchange and conflict transformation.