Celebrating Nneka Bolden: A Howard University Alum Making Waves in Digital Media
Pictured: PBS KIDS girls characters around a pink circle with “Celebrate Women’s History Month” inside. Credit: PBS KIDS
Pictured: Nneka Bolden. Credit Geena Davis Institute
Nneka Bolden, a proud Howard University graduate, is a dynamic force in the world of digital media. Her impressive portfolio includes award-winning apps and websites that have garnered accolades such as the Webby Award and Apple’s App Store Essential award, and have even been featured in the Washington Post.
Nneka's career is marked by her dedication to fostering creativity, inclusivity, and thoughtful engagement. She has led teams at renowned organizations like Sesame Street, Kickstarter, and Tinybop, always with a focus on making a positive impact on young audiences.
"As a Howard University alumna, I've always sought mission-aligned organizations to work with who inspire young people and help the world be a more thoughtful, creative and inclusive place. Howard's mission of excellence in truth and service has always guided me well."
- Nneka Bolden
In her current role, Nneka is at the helm of producing five web games, a website, and three interactive videos for the popular PBS Kids series, Lyla in the Loop!
Lyla and Stu's Hairdos: The Latest Fun from Lyla in the Loop
Pictured: Lyla & Stu’s Hairdos. Credit: PBS KIDS
One of the latest and most exciting additions to the Lyla in the Loop series is the game Lyla and Stu's Hairdos. This interactive game invites kids to help Lyla and her blue sidekick, Stu, style their hair for a special event. It's a delightful way for children to engage in creative problem-solving and fine motor skills development while having fun.
As the creator of Lyla and Stu's Hairdos, Nneka developed this game for several meaningful reasons:
To create something her younger self would have loved to play.
To make a game where kids can love their hair, because loving hair is a journey.
To reflect the creativity and resiliency of Black hair.
To celebrate traditional Black hairstyles.
So children can see themselves represented.
To teach kids and adults how to take care of and maintain healthy hair.
To play around in Stu's fur!
"After graduating from the School of Communications, I started my career at PBSKIDS in Arlington, VA and helped their Digital team expand their in-house research or 'playtesting' program, partnering with local after school programs and education centers to find young kids who could help test upcoming apps and web games."
- Nneka Bolden
The Importance of Representing Black Hair
Pictured: Braids with triangle parts on someone with a blue top. Credit: PBS KIDS
Lyla and Stu's Hairdos is more than just a fun game; it's an important tool for representation. By showcasing Black hair in its many styles and teaching kids how to maintain it, the game helps children appreciate the beauty and versatility of their hair. It celebrates traditional Black hairstyles and promotes a positive self-image, encouraging kids to love and care for their hair. This representation is crucial in helping children see themselves in the media they consume and understand that their unique features are beautiful and worthy of celebration.
"As the Director of Digital Production & Engagements, I've been able to craft educational experiences, resources and partnerships that center the lead character, Lyla, a 7-year old Black girl, and by extension the experiences of young BIPOC girls."
- Nneka Bolden
Learn More and Play Today!
Discover more about WHUT and PBS Kids by visiting our Education and Kids page. Don't miss out on the new game, Lyla and Stu's Hairdos, where kids can explore the creativity and beauty of Black hair while having a blast with Lyla and Stu!