Introduction
In an exciting move to blend creativity, humor, and social impact, Kbean® has launched the Reel Funny program, a unique initiative aimed at teaching students conflict resolution through the art of comedy and improvisation. This innovative program, which has already made its mark in three junior high and high schools in Oakland, CA, is set to expand to six more schools outside of northern California. With a mission to cultivate a healthy social environment and instill life-long skills such as teamwork, communication, and empathy, Reel Funny is rapidly gaining attention and support from entertainment and philanthropic brands, including Laffapalooza hosted by Jamie Foxx and Blair Underwood.
Program Highlights
The workshops, led by inspiring role models and popular figures like Emmy Award-winning film and TV producer Gary Reeves, provide students with a culturally relatable and engaging experience. These sessions focus on relevant social issues and areas of conflict pertinent to junior high and high school students, demonstrating how comedy and humor can be powerful tools for resolving these issues and fostering a non-violent, supportive, and socially impactful environment.
During the initial series of workshops, Reeves emphasized the importance of setting healthy social boundaries, applying this theme to various topics such as school, food, friends, and family. The program also includes lessons on media creation and media rights protection, equipping students with the knowledge to build a sustainable economy within their communities.
Student Engagement and Creativity
After the workshop sessions, students are encouraged to apply the concepts and skills they’ve learned by creating skits or creative videos that showcase their own conflict resolution narratives. These videos are then submitted through Kbean’s platform, where winners are selected and recognized on a super-influencer’s social media. This August, Kbean will host “SALT 12,” a short film festival presenting the students’ creative works for their communities to enjoy. The festival, which stands for Social Accountability and Leadership for Tomorrow, will take place in the San Francisco East Bay area and is open to family, friends, educators, and community members.
Testimonials and Success Stories
The Reel Funny program has already been met with enthusiastic support from students and faculty alike. The Principal of St. Leo the Great in Oakland, CA, shared, “We have done other conflict resolution type of teachings or sessions before, but this time was different. During the entire process, students were calm and methodical as if they were constantly thinking about the self-boundary and how to communicate in the creative process. And it made a difference in how they act with and learn from each other.”
Expanding Horizons
With the initial success on the west coast, Kbean is eager to expand the Reel Funny program to schools in Atlanta, GA, and Newport, RI. By joining forces with social impact thought leaders from entertainment, sports, and philanthropy, Kbean aims to cultivate a unique and powerful experience for students across the country. The Reel Funny program engages students in fun and creative exercises under the supervision of Kbean staff and selected school administrators, fostering an environment of understanding and positive change.
Follow-Up and Recognition
The recent Reel Funny Award ceremony at Saint Leo the Great highlighted the remarkable talent and creativity of the students. The winners were celebrated for their outstanding contributions:
Fifth Grade Winners:
- Zoe Bowman
- Britney Hennesey
- Riley Rasberry Harris
- LaurynneTaylor
- Alivia Thornton
Sixth Grade Winners:
- Bison Browne
- Nadiya Chaney
- Ariya Jackson
- Naomi Jima
- Kioni Reed
- Maaliyah Taylor
Seventh Grade Winners:
- Sterling Burroughs
- Miles Johnwell
- Rosie Miorana
- Mai Ly Myers
- Tahir Powell
- Za’Kari Terrell
Eighth Grade Winners:
- Jeffrey Fruit
- Dominic Hampton
- Sainai Patterson
- Khollin Ware
- Jordyn Wiseman
How You Can Support
To continue the momentum and support the expansion of the Reel Funny program, Kbean invites you to join them at the SALT 12. event and on the Road to Laffapalooza. Here’s how you can get involved:
- Follow us on social media: IG: @kbeanmarket and Meta: @Kbean
- Use the Kbean mobile app: Available on iOS and Android
Together, we can empower students with the tools to resolve conflicts creatively and foster a more empathetic and supportive society. Watch our one-minute highlight video featuring Gary Reeves, offering powerful life advice to the students who participated in this transformative event.
About Kbean®
Kbean® is a marketplace for creative media driving social impact, powered by Kbean’s innovative MicroNFT® solution and blockchain technology since 2018. Our mission is to bring innovation and empowerment to every creator, helping build a creative economy that benefits all.
For more information about the Reel Funny program or SALT 12, please email us at salt@kbean.com.
