Meet RASHARD DOBBINS

Today we’d like to introduce you to RASHARD DOBBINS.

Hi RASHARD, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?

– I’m RASHARD DOBBINS, and my life’s been quite the rollercoaster ride through performance, entertainment, and education. To add a twist, I’ve also embraced the challenge of moving one to two times a year, which has become a crucial part of my story. I kick-started my career in the entertainment world, rocking it as a performer and taking on roles that spanned film and television. I learned along the way that these skills were like Swiss Army knives—they could be used in various situations. This versatility became even more valuable when coupled with my constant moves. Living out of a suitcase, I became an expert at adaptation and got to relate to people from all walks of life in ways I never could have imagined. This unique blend of experiences led me to pursue a Bachelor’s in Film from Georgia State University and a communications degree from Gordon State College, where I graduated Summa Cum Laude. The fusion of my entertainment and education background [teaching] and my ability to adapt to new environments drove me to establish Class Act Detroit, where we use the power of storytelling and creative education alongside hip-hop culture to uplift underprivileged youth. In the grand scheme of things, my journey is a testament to the power of adaptability and the art of forging connections with diverse communities, whether I’m on the move or at the helm of my nonprofit.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?

– Class Act Detroit didn’t come together overnight. It results from my unique journey—a mix of childhood dreams, frequent moves, and a rebellion against traditional education. As a kid, I always dreamt of being a DJ and musician. Sadly, I never had the support I needed to chase those dreams. Life was a constant shuffle, moving one to two times a year, and stability was elusive. To make ends meet, I took on various jobs. School? Let’s just say it wasn’t my favorite place. But around 11th grade, I realized I had a natural talent for communication, improvisation, and storytelling. I embraced the role of a GRIOT, a modern-day storyteller. I also got into acting thanks to a drama class I took, which I only did because I’d choose gym at every new school I went to and couldn’t do it again at this one. The big breakthrough happened after college when I became a teacher and got my hands on production gear. Every day, I witnessed how hip-hop could empower and engage students in ways traditional teaching couldn’t. Hip-hop, born from the challenges young people of color faced, resonated deeply with them. Plus, I was that teacher who’d beatbox, play J Dilla instrumentals, create secret handshakes, and even have dinner with students if they invited me. This “Aha!” moment ignited the idea of Class Act Detroit. I wanted to use hip-hop to connect, educate, and uplift underserved youth. It was a fusion of my love for music, my natural gift for communication, and my unwavering passion for making a meaningful impact. My journey may have been unconventional, but it paved the way for something truly impactful.

– The mission of Class Act Detroit is to empower underserved youth through the creative power of hip-hop. We offer a range of educational programs, workshops, and mentorship opportunities that use hip-hop as a tool for self-expression, learning, and personal growth. Our goal is to inspire and uplift young people, helping them discover their potential and find their voices through music and storytelling.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?

– The major milestone I am most proud of goes far beyond the accolades, articles, videos, grants, or any other tangible recognition. What truly matters is the individual success stories of those who have been part of our movement. It’s in the smiles that light up faces, the lifelong relationships that have formed, and the bonds of community that have been forged. It’s the pride I feel when I receive invitations to graduations, witnessing scholars and individuals I’ve worked with achieve their dreams. It’s the shared moments of breaking bread, the joy in our hearts, and the warmth of hugs exchanged. Above all, I take immense pride in having taken that bold step of faith to start a successful business and deliver a hip-hop community center to our city. It’s about making a lasting impact, empowering individuals, and creating a space where creativity and growth thrive. These are the milestones that truly matter and continue to inspire me every day.

Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?

– Book: The War of Art by Steven Pressfield
– Movie: You know I studied film, right!? 🤦🏽‍♂️
– Fox & The Hound
– Volcano High
– Black Dynamite
– TV Show: A tie between ‘
– In Living Color,’
– Scrubs
– Fresh Prince
– Chappelle’s Show

– Some media links below!
– Fox 2 Detroit
– FELLOWSHIP
– Ralph C Wilson, Jr.
– Kresge
– MLK DAY 2021; MLK DAY 2020
– LOC – National Book Festival 2020
– NEXT CITY
– AMERICAN FOLKLIFE CENTER
– DBG

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.classactdetroit.org/
• Instagram: @CLASSACTDETROIT
• Facebook: @CLASSACTDETROIT
• Twitter: @CLASSACTDETROIT
• Youtube: @CLASSACTDETROIT

 

Image Credits
n/a