A young voice rises: Knowa De Baraso’s journey from viral sensation to media prodigy
The unexpected star of the Democratic National Convention
Last week’s Democratic National Convention in Chicago was a whirlwind of political fervor and media buzz. Amidst the sea of seasoned politicians and media personalities, a 12-year-old boy from Atlanta, Knowa De Baraso, emerged as an unexpected star. His viral encounter with Mike Lindell, CEO of MyPillow and a staunch supporter of former President Donald Trump, catapulted him into the spotlight.
A viral moment that resonated
De Baraso, who is home-schooled and lives with his mother, became an internet sensation on Day 3 of the DNC. In a video captured from multiple angles, De Baraso deftly countered Lindell’s claims about election fraud in Georgia. His sharp retort, “So your source is ‘Trust me, bro?’” quickly became a tagline for his merchandise, including T-shirts and tote bags. This moment not only landed him on NBC’s “Late Night With Seth Meyers” but also earned him a guest spot on the popular radio show and podcast, “The Breakfast Club.”
A prodigy in the making
De Baraso’s poise and political acumen were further showcased during a live interview with Sky News anchor Mark Austin. Dressed in a white polo shirt and khaki shorts, he articulated his views on national politics and the importance of engaging younger voters. “We get a two-for-one in this election,” De Baraso explained. “We get to defeat Donald Trump and we get a good policy maker in the White House. That’s why I’m all in.”
Networking with the giants
At the DNC, De Baraso ventured into Media Row, seeking networking opportunities with influential figures like veteran journalist and commentator Roland S. Martin. Martin, impressed by De Baraso’s knowledge and energy, offered him his own show on the Black Star Network. Details about the format and frequency are still being worked out, but De Baraso’s quick acceptance signals a promising future.
A passion for politics
De Baraso’s political journey began in 2022 after meeting then-Georgia gubernatorial candidate Stacey Abrams. Inspired by their conversation about policy, he appeared in an Abrams political advertisement and became hooked on electoral politics. Today, he uses his social media platforms—X, TikTok, and Instagram—to promote Democratic candidates and progressive causes.
The drive behind the mission
Unlike most 12-year-olds, De Baraso spends his free time discussing housing policy, child tax credits, and HBCU funding. When asked about his motivation, he simply states, “Democracy’s at stake – that’s why I do it.” His dedication has not gone unnoticed; during his “Breakfast Club” appearance, host Charlamagne Tha God dubbed him “the future governor of Georgia.”
A rising star with a bright future
Over the past two years, De Baraso has visited the White House twice and met Vice President Kamala Harris. His social media work caught the attention of Jaime Harrison, chair of the 2024 DNC, who invited him to Chicago as his personal guest. De Baraso’s social feed during the DNC was filled with pictures of him alongside prominent Democrats like Nancy Pelosi, Gavin Newsom, and Raphael Warnock.
Roland Martin’s mentorship
For Roland S. Martin, offering De Baraso a show on the Black Star Network is a testament to his commitment to nurturing the next generation of media talent. Martin, who launched his independent venture in 2018, sees a kindred spirit in De Baraso. “It’s all about the desire and the urgency of the individual,” Martin says. “This kid’s got it. You have to nurture that and develop that.”
The evolution of Black Star Network
Martin’s journey with Black Star Network has been marked by strategic growth and disciplined management. Launched with $350,000 of his own money and the backing of a single sponsor, the network has grown to generate nearly $4 million in annual revenue. Despite challenges with advertising agencies, Martin has successfully built a platform that offers a diverse range of content, from news and politics to lifestyle and sports.
A new era of media
At 55, Martin is forging a path as an independent Black voice in news and media, leveraging digital platforms to reach a wide audience. His show, “Roland Martin Unfiltered,” combines raw commentary with virtual panels of Black journalists, commentators, and academics. Martin’s commitment to taking his show on the road and covering events like the DNC underscores his dedication to providing a platform for diverse voices.
A mentor for the digital age
Martin’s desire to mentor De Baraso stems from his own experiences in the media industry. “I will love to provide him with my knowledge and experience so that he doesn’t have to build from scratch,” Martin says. “If he puts in the time and the work, by the time he is 20, he will be in a position to be a next-generation media star.”
The future of media
As De Baraso continues to navigate the world of politics and media, his journey serves as an inspiration for young people everywhere. His story is a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and the importance of nurturing the next generation of leaders. With mentors like Roland Martin and a growing platform, De Baraso is poised to make a significant impact on the media landscape.
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