About Us
Western Academy at The Neblett (WANwear): A Grassroots Movement of Empowerment, Education, and Enterprise
Western Academy at The Neblett, founded in October 2019, was created as a grassroots initiative to radically change the life-trajectory of African American boys through an organic, deeply-rooted community brotherhood. Built from the ground up with intention and integrity, WAN fosters a culture where young men are not only supported academically but are also immersed in experiences that shape their identities and destinies.
From the moment scholars join the academy, they are welcomed into a powerful, purpose-driven environment focused on:
- Academic Enrichment: Personalized instruction in math and literacy to build mastery and confidence.
- Drum Corps and the Arts: Creative expression through performance that teaches discipline, pride, and collaboration.
- STEM & Hands-On Projects: Real-world problem solving that sparks curiosity and innovation.
- School System Partnerships: Strategic collaboration with local districts to bridge educational equity and excellence.
Why Western Academy at The Neblett? Because we Empower. Encourage. Educate.
We help every scholar realize that excellence is not a privilege — it is their birthright.
The Evolution of We Are Now: From Brotherhood to Brand
From the fertile soil of this grassroots movement grew something remarkable — a new branch of the mission that fuses purpose with enterprise: WANwear. What began as Western Academy at The Neblett has organically evolved into We Are Now — a powerful declaration of identity, self-worth, and readiness.
WANwear is more than a t-shirt line. It is the embodiment of what it means to be seen, heard, and valued now, not someday.
It is a dynamic platform where young African American boys learn to dream boldly and act brilliantly — cultivating the entrepreneurial mindset from a young age.
At WANwear, We’re Not Just Creating T-Shirts — We’re Creating a Movement.
Born from the lived experiences of our youth and their mentors, WANwear teaches teenage boys the real-world tools of business and personal growth:
- Marketing
- Branding
- Financial Literacy
- Teamwork
- Resilience
Each design is more than fashion — it’s a message. A statement.
A vision.
Crafted with intentionality, WANwear speaks to hope, ambition, and purpose. These are wearable affirmations, shouting to the world: Greatness is not distant — it’s here, it’s now, it’s within us.
Through every sale and every shirt, young minds gain confidence, clarity, and capability. They don’t just learn to sell — they learn to lead.
Our Mission:
To empower young people to believe in their potential, encourage them to express their voice, and educate them through hands-on business experience — all while inspiring the world one t-shirt at a time.
Why We Exist:
Because for too long, society has underestimated the potential of young men of color. WANwear is here to rewrite that narrative with authenticity and bold vision.We are grassroots. We are organic. We are the future.
When You Wear WANwear…
You’re not just wearing a brand.
You’re standing for opportunity.
You’re uplifting young entrepreneurs.
You’re wearing We Are Now — a movement of purpose, power, and pride.
WANwear: We Are Now. We Are Powerful. We Are the Future.
