Education Grant WinnerNehemias Moreno

Nehemias Moreno works with students at Terrell Wells Middle School in Harlandale ISD, where his daily focus goes beyond lessons and schedules to something deeper: helping young people see possibility in themselves. Teaching early college preparation, he noticed early on that many students carried heavy doubts about their futures. Rather than ignoring that reality, Nehemias began searching for a way to shift their mindset—to help them believe that success was not distant or abstract, but visible, local, and within reach.

That vision became the HOTT (Home of the Trojans) Video Podcast, a student-led production funded through a Firstmark Foundation education grant. With grant support, Nehemias was able to purchase the essential equipment—camera, microphones, and a simple studio setup—turning an idea into a living, breathing platform. Students take the lead as hosts, interviewers, editors, and producers, recording conversations with professionals from their own community who share stories of perseverance, education, and career journeys. For many students, it’s their first experience speaking on camera, asking thoughtful questions, and owning a project from start to finish.

The impact reaches far beyond the studio. Students build confidence, leadership, and real-world communication skills while seeing people who look like them succeed in meaningful careers. The podcast is already being shared more widely through YouTube, giving students a sense of pride and lasting legacy—proof that their voices matter and their stories can inspire others. As Nehemias steps into the background and lets students take the spotlight, the project stands as a powerful reminder of what happens when young people are trusted, equipped, and given a platform to grow.