Woodbridge, VA – Last night, Virginia House candidate Makya Little hosted a community service fundraiser in the newly drawn 19th House District in the form of a private screening of
Marvel’s Wakanda Forever. Instead of focusing on donor participation, Little set her sights on corporations and community sponsors and invited area youth from underrepresented
backgrounds to attend for free.

The purpose of the event was to expose students of color to a “behind the scenes” look at what it takes to run a political campaign for elected office. “Many candidates of color jump into races
with very little awareness of how a campaign should run or allow their lack of awareness and exposure to keep them from running,” says Little. Inspired to become politically engaged by the
late Congressman Elijah Cummings, Little is hoping to help change that as she runs.

Donald Jones, Jr., who serves as a coordinator for one of the invited youth groups, attended on behalf of community sponsor Charles Hunter. “This event provided a space for youth to broaden their scope of possibilities by incorporating various environments for observation and learning. Yesterday, students were provided the opportunity to fellowship while supporting the arts. Students should have felt the support and inclusion as members of the community partnered to provide a shared experience.”

Community sponsor Ronell Chatmon says, “Providing opportunities for youth in Prince William County to engage with community leaders, enjoy entertainment in a safe environment, and learn about careers is essential for the district’s wellbeing. Makya’s fundraiser provided a pleasurable entertainment experience while educating and inspiring our young people. That type of galvanizing leadership is exactly what we need in our communities.”

“Most in the political circles will tell you that when you’re a candidate, you need to be laser focused on the three Ds: doors, dollars, and donors. Basically, if it’s not getting you access to
voters, money, or people with money, it’s a waste of time and resources. But I would ask if you can’t do community service and advocacy work while also campaigning, then what are you
running for?”

The event’s top sponsor, Lonnie J. Bellamy, President of TIME Systems, LLC, which specializes in cyber security, expressed a desire to support as someone who grew up in the
region, attended the same high school as some of the students, and wanted to pay it forward.