ABOUT US
The Burghàlie Academy is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to empowering under-resourced youth through education, mentorship, and opportunities in fashion and the arts. We expose young people to creative industries as promising career options, inspiring them to become the next generation of artists, designers, and innovators. By connecting arts education with real-world opportunities, we help bridge the gap between learning and professional success.
4
Founding Members
The Burghàlie Academy of Visual Arts began on the campus of Tallahassee Community College as a registered student organization. The entity was originally known as the "Burghàlie Visual Arts Society" and began with 4 members.
2017
Founding Year
Our organization was founded in 2017 by Terrance Smith and Brandon Jones. The organization served as a service-based group with an emphasis on unity, diversity, and creativity.
5,000
Youth Impacted
As of 2023, we have been able to impact nearly 5,000 youth and families. This is both directly and indirectly.
VISION
Our vision is a future where fashion and the arts are no longer exclusive, but serve as bridges to opportunities for all youth, igniting personal growth and global transformation through creative careers.
MISSION
Burghàlie Academy inspires and prepares the next generation of artists, designers, and innovators by connecting youth to meaningful opportunities in fashion and the arts.
OUR PRINCIPLES
Our organization stands on the principles of equity, inclusion, and creative expression.
MEET OUR TEAM
Rashaad Burghàlie
He/Him
Chief Executive Officer
Kai Drakeford
She/Her
Public Relations Manager
Brandon Jones
He/Him
Chief Financial Officer
Jessica Mesnick
She/Her
Studio Manager
Isaac Parfait
He/Him
Director of Media
Sabo Oluwafemi
He/Him
Videographer