Next Level is a U.S. State Department program that uses hip hop culture as a tool for cultural diplomacy, connecting American and international artists with young people in Mexico through workshops and artistic residencies.
Next Level is a cultural initiative by the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) aiming to promote cross-cultural dialogue through hip hop. The program employs artistic residencies, mentorships, and workshops to connect American and international artists with youth, cultivating creativity and intercultural understanding.
For the upcoming edition of Next Level Mexico 2026, taking place from February 2 to 7, a residency with 100 participants was organized, covering disciplines like Dance, DJing, Beatmaking, and Rapping. The U.S. consulate in Monterrey took the lead in organizing this event, which included visits from prominent American artists such as King Charles, a dancer from Chicago, Jonathan González, a DJ and producer from Houston, and the Bronx-based rapper Randy Mason, among others, all of whom contributed their expertise to the program.
Through these workshops, participants gain valuable skills and engage in cultural exchange with local Mexican artists and youth, fostering a sense of collaboration and community. This initiative not only enhances the creativity of young participants but also serves as a bridge between U.S. and Mexican cultures, highlighting the positive impact of hip hop as a form of cultural diplomacy.
