For Justin Riddick, art has always been more than a creative outlet. It’s a way to tell stories, inspire others and help solve real-world challenges. Supported by the Procter & Gamble HBCYOU Scholarship Program, administered by UNCF, the fine arts major at UNCF-member institution Talladega College is turning his aspirations into a future filled with purpose.

“I do appreciate it,” Riddick said. “It’s my first UNCF scholarship. I’m grateful.”

He dreams of combining his love of comic book illustration with a passion for architecture to design affordable, sustainable housing for families experiencing homelessness.

His long-term goal is rooted in the experiences he had growing up in Atlanta, GA, where he often saw individuals and families living on the streets or beneath highway overpasses. “My heart went out to them,” he said. “I thought, ‘What can I do to make a difference in their lives?’” That question continues to guide him today.

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Riddick hopes to pursue two complementary career paths: comic book illustration, inspired by the cartoons, video games and animated characters he loved as a child, and architectural design focused on creating environmentally-friendly, sustainable and affordable housing for struggling families, children and people experiencing homelessness.

“I just want to do what I can,” he said. “Using my knowledge and talents.”

Now a junior, after earning college credits in high school, Riddick is on track to graduate in 2027—earlier than originally expected. As he looks ahead, he remains focused on using his education to make a lasting impact.

Talladega College entered his life unexpectedly. While applying to colleges through the Common Black College Application, the institution reached out and offered him a scholarship opportunity. Although he had initially planned to attend a college closer to home, the support from Talladega made his decision an easy one.

Since arriving on campus, Riddick has found opportunities to grow both as an artist and as a member of the Talladega community. One of his most memorable experiences came through the college choir, which he traveled with to New York City to perform at Carnegie Hall. “It felt magical,” he recalled.

The trip held special meaning beyond the performance. Both of his parents are originally from New York, giving Riddick the chance to reconnect with family, including his grandmother and aunt, while celebrating his birthday in the city where dreams are made of.

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Like many students, Riddick actively searches for scholarships to help make his education more affordable. Receiving support through UNCF has reinforced his determination to make the most of every opportunity.

To the donors who have invested in his future, Riddick offers heartfelt thanks. “I’ll do everything in my power to use these funds to my advantage to amplify my academic journey through Talladega College and beyond,” he said.

Students like Riddick demonstrate what is possible when talent meets opportunity. Through scholarships like the Procter & Gamble HBCYOU Scholarship Program, UNCF continues to remove financial barriers, empower HBCU students and help tomorrow’s artists, innovators and changemakers transform their dreams into meaningful solutions that will help the world.

UNCF is proud of our students and alumni who have received scholarships that help them continue their education and graduate. These scholarships are invaluable to students, and UNCF is accepting donations to support students like Justin Riddick in their academic endeavors.

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