About
Representation creates opportunity.
HBCU Dreamers is an ongoing project documenting HBCU culture in print and on film. It was started by Iamani Julien, a proud graduate of Norfolk State University and the photographer behind every volume.
What we've made
A 118-page hardcover photobook shot during Norfolk State's 2025 homecoming weekend. Made for the coffee table, so anyone can pick it up and see a piece of themselves in it.
Shop the bookNorfolk State's 2026 homecoming on disposable Fujifilm cameras.
See the gallery103 historically Black colleges and universities in one place.
Explore the mapFour cameras in four hands: The Sophomore, The Alumni, The Greek and The Creative. In progress.
Read the storyBuilt with community
Dreamers is made with the people who show up for HBCU culture. Vol. 1 was created at the Assembly Alumni Day Party in collaboration with NYTHC, Coffee Black House, NotYourAverageEvents and Scend Studio.
Why it matters
HBCUs have always produced leaders, innovators and artists. Dreamers shows their students and alumni in a way that is positive, tasteful and inspiring. It also makes the case that creatives are worth investing in: people with new ideas making physical media today and putting Black students and alumni in front of a bigger audience.
What we stand on
- SpotlightAmplifying the voices and achievements of HBCU students and alumni.
- OpportunityBuilding pathways into internships, careers, mentorship and scholarships. See Opportunities
- LegacyPreserving cultural memory and honoring the leaders these schools have produced.
- CultureCampus traditions, Greek life, fashion, music and student expression.
- ImpactHow students and alumni give back and lead beyond campus.
Where we're headed
Vol. 1 is the first release in a series covering HBCU homecoming culture campus by campus. Alongside it we are building out the Opportunities page with real pathways for students and alumni.
Made for us. Made with us.