In a unique blend of cultural enthusiasm and academic empowerment, Dominique Waters has pioneered the Akron Sneaker Academy. Growing up in an underprivileged environment, Waters discovered the self-assurance that a new pair of sneakers could instill. Leveraging this insight, he founded a nonprofit organization dedicated to engaging children through their shared love for sneakers while fostering learning in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). By utilizing sneaker culture as a gateway, the academy aims to inspire young minds with hands-on activities and real-world applications, ensuring they are equipped for future opportunities.
Revolutionizing Education Through Sneaker Culture
Based in Akron, Ohio, Dominique Waters initiated the Akron Sneaker Academy after recognizing the universal appeal sneakers have among youth. With over a decade of experience in fashion and retail, including stints at prestigious brands like Burberry and Louis Vuitton, Waters returned home in 2020. His passion for community engagement was sparked during his tenure at UNKNWN, a store co-founded by LeBron James. Following its closure in early 2024, Waters transitioned into creating impactful educational programs centered around sneakers.
The academy's flagship initiative is the summer Sneaker Camp, held annually since 2023. Last year, middle school students participated in a three-week program hosted at Summit Lake’s Reach Opportunity Center. This year, alongside expanding to Barberton, the camp will relocate to the I PROMISE Institute within the University of Akron’s Infocision Stadium. Activities include designing custom sneakers, touring local businesses, and exploring collegiate facilities such as engineering labs and art schools.
Collaborations with educators like Chanique Byrd and Skylar Roberts enhance curriculum development. Guest speakers, interactive workshops, and problem-solving exercises immerse participants in diverse aspects of STEM education. For example, discussions on water resistance involve dipping shoes into lakes, while durability tests entail running vehicles over them. Such creative methods captivate learners and reinforce theoretical concepts practically.
Support from entities like Youth Success Summit underscores the program's effectiveness. Executive Director Rachel Tecca praised the well-structured nature of the camp, noting how seamlessly learning objectives integrate with enjoyable experiences. Furthermore, Anne Bitong, President & CEO of the Akron Marathon, serves as board president, advocating for inclusive educational pathways.
Registration for both locations commences online via respective school district portals. Scholarships ensure accessibility for all interested students.
Through these efforts, Waters envisions cultivating Akron's next wave of innovators and leaders, emphasizing investment in urban communities often overlooked yet brimming with potential.
From a journalist's perspective, the Akron Sneaker Academy exemplifies transformative education. It demonstrates how unconventional approaches can revolutionize traditional teaching paradigms, making knowledge acquisition exciting and relevant. By tapping into students' interests, Waters bridges gaps between personal passions and academic pursuits, paving the way for meaningful career explorations. This initiative not only empowers individuals but also strengthens entire communities by validating their inherent talents and aspirations.