VICKSBURG, Miss. — The 2025 Summer Future Kings Camp, held May 29–30 at Hinds Community College, offered young men an immersive experience in career readiness, leadership, and higher education through a series of hands-on tours, interactive workshops, and mentorship opportunities.
The two-day event began Thursday with breakfast and a bus trip to Hinds Community College’s Raymond Campus, where participants explored the field of cybersecurity with a guided tour led by James Finch. The group then traveled to the Utica Campus for an in-depth look at the Science and Technology Innovative Center with Dr. Carrie Kirkland.
After touring the Utica facilities, students made their way to the Vicksburg Campus for lunch and an afternoon of activities. Coaches Wilson and Lacy led a skills rotation before the camp transitioned to instructional sessions with facilitators Smith and Jones. The first day concluded with a debrief, survey, and t-shirt distribution.
Friday’s agenda continued the momentum with a morning of instructional sessions and a group photo. Team-building exercises were led by Ms. Kivett, followed by an address from Minister Reed and a special lunch session with notable male leaders in the community, including law enforcement officers, educators, and clergy.
In the afternoon, students participated in 10-minute table talks with professionals to learn about career pathways and leadership, followed by more instructional time. The program concluded with a camp debrief and a student-led slideshow presentation, which was open to parents.
The Future Kings Camp, designed to uplift and empower young men through exposure, mentorship, and education, concluded with a message of motivation and accountability, emphasizing preparation for future academic and professional success.