About Us

Serving over 10,000 students and adult learners in future ready workforce development programming since 2021.

Our Philosophy

Why Choose Us

At NEXT, we believe in the power of education to transform individuals, communities, and the future of work.

Our philosophy is rooted in the understanding that an entrepreneurial mindset, defined by curiosity, resilience, innovation, and strategic action, is essential for thriving in a world shaped by constant change. In today’s economy, success requires more than academic knowledge; it requires adaptability, confidence, and the ability to navigate uncertainty.

Our mission is to empower students, educators, families, and communities to thrive in a rapidly evolving workforce through future-ready, experiential education.

We design and deliver learning experiences that integrate career readiness, financial literacy, social-emotional development, and responsible use of technology — including AI — to equip learners with the mindset, skills, and tools to lead, contribute, and succeed no matter what the future holds.

Guided by our values of excellence, inclusivity, and purpose, we partner with schools and organizations to build sustainable systems that spark growth, build capacity, and create meaningful pathways from education to opportunity.

At NEXT, we are not just preparing learners for today’s jobs, we are equipping the NEXT generation to shape the future with confidence, possibility, and purpose.

Our Founder

Michelle Blue is an entrepreneur who launched her first business immediately after college, a venture designed to empower girls in Ghana to continue their education. Her innovative approach and commitment to impact earned her partnerships with major brands like Pantene, recognition as one of Mashable's "Top Black-Owned Businesses Changing the World," and the opportunity to share her story during a TEDTalk. She later returned to Ghana to celebrate the graduation of the very girls her business set out to support, a milestone that exemplifies her dedication to creating meaningful change.

As a trained psychoanalytical coach with over 12 years of entrepreneurial experience, Blue is passionate about helping individuals and organizations unlock their purpose and step confidently into their full potential.​

Through NEXT, Blue and her team of thought leaders and educators deliver transformative entrepreneurial teachings and experiences. They support students, educators, professionals, and organizations in developing the mindset, strategies, and skills to thrive in an ever-changing economy. By fostering innovation, resilience, and purposeful action, NEXT equips individuals and teams to succeed in the classroom, the workplace, and beyond.

“At NEXT, we’re on a mission to equip 1 million people with the mindset, tools, and strategies to create a future of purpose and possibility by 2035.”

Michelle Blue

Michelle Blue, Founder of NEXT Development

NYC & NYS MWBE Certified

Entrepreneurial Visionary, Strategist & Thought Leader

www.themichelleblue.com


meet our experts

Our Team

Anna Cable

Programming Lead

Sasha Matthews

Curriculum Developer & Program Impact

Kelly Greene

Facilitator, NFP & SEL Practitioner

Ron Johnson

Learning Management Developer

Available SME's & Coaches

Communications

Financial Literacy

AI for Students & Teachers

Marketing & Digital Marketing

Branding 

Sales & Negotiation

Public Relations

Mindset Development & Training

Professional Development

Personal Branding

Resilience & Overcoming Failure

Leadership

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