My name is Malik Larkin, and I received The LAGRANT Foundation (TLF) scholarship in 2019 and 2020. I received the award while pursuing my degree in Graphic Design at Maryland Institute College of Art. At Maryland Institute College of Art, I’m a campus leader, club president of MICA Start, and resident advisor. In my professional field, I do freelance as a graphic designer in the esports industry, as well as event photography and apparel design production. As I continue to pursue my creative aspirations, I’m on course to receive my degree in 2022, a feat that would not have been possible without the support of TLF.

I first heard about TLF after meeting the TLF Chairman & CEO Kim Hunter, right before I started my freshman year in college. Mr. Hunter shared this fantastic opportunity and message on increasing the number of diversity in the fields of advertising, marketing and public relations. This scholarship had an impact on me while I was in school, but it has also affected my professional career. TLF gave me the motivation and encouragement needed to become a competitive commissioner and applicant in my internship job search. Most importantly, this scholarship has helped me grow as a person in many ways, such as last summer's workshop where I had the pleasure to network and learn from many leaders in the advertising industry from P&G, Citizen, and many more. Including networking with other recipients who were doing amazing things in their own space, from influencers, entrepreneurs, and other freelancers who looked like me.

As a proud alumnus, I hope to see TLF’s impact on future students for many more years to come. I am a strong proponent of its mission because diversity in the workforce is essential, and I continue to stay involved because of their passion and outreach to my fellow students. I believe it is vital to keep the work TLF is doing because of their rarity, and we will be able to do so with the support from you.

Please consider joining me in supporting The LAGRANT Foundation so that we can continue the great work of shaping the future of bright, diverse leaders!