This summer, Harlem Taylor (RBS 2023), a Ron Brown Scholar and a current Mosbacher Fellow in the St. Louis Fellows Program, made significant strides toward revitalizing the St. Louis economy through his internship at the Cortex Innovation District. His work contributes to a broader effort that has helped propel St. Louis into the top ten U.S. metropolitan areas for job growth for the first time in over thirty years.
Building Skills and Community
At Cortex, a nonprofit dedicated to economic elevation, Harlem focused on enhancing employee skills and developing curricula to support local entrepreneurs and workers. His efforts centered around “Venture-Ready Missouri,” a program to prepare Missouri entrepreneurs for venture funding and create accessible co-working spaces to foster innovation. Harlem’s role in designing training programs was pivotal, ensuring they aligned workforce readiness with current job market demands.
A Mission-Driven Summer
Harlem’s work this summer also gave him insight into the nonprofit sector’s potential for driving change. “It’s such a powerful environment to be around people that believe in a shared mission,” Harlem reflected. This mission is to ensure equitable economic growth, a goal Cortex pursues by involving community feedback and focusing on uplifting all residents.
A Moment of Connection
A particularly touching moment came during a community event when Harlem witnessed the direct impact of Cortex’s work. A simple “bring your kid to work day” became a community bonding event, underscoring the importance of Cortex’s mission to the local families.
Looking Ahead
This experience has reinforced Harlem’s interest in the nonprofit sector and highlighted the profound influence that dedicated individuals can have on a community’s economic health. His work this summer with Cortex is a prime example of how Ron Brown Scholars are actively involved in shaping and uplifting communities nationwide.
For more about Harlem’s journey, visit: https://gephardtinstitute.wustl.edu/at-cortex-taylor-works-at-the-intersection-of-economics-and-inclusion/
