Nationwide — The Kids Free Trip to Africa Program (KFTTA), founded by Paul Allen Billings of WUVS 103.7 The Beat, is making dreams come true for seven exceptional students from low-income communities in Muskegon, Michigan.These bright young minds, all first-generation international travelers in their families, have been selected for an awe-inspiring expedition to Ghana and Egypt after winning a Black History Month essay contest sponsored by the radio station.
This year’s ambassadors include Chantel-Brean Boseman from Muskegon Covenant Academy; Asia Fletcher, Lawrence Paskel, and Taimya White from Muskegon Heights High School; and Kimora Stedman, Keyvonte Taylor, and Isis Carter from Muskegon High School.
“Our mission is to break down barriers and open doors for these deserving kids,” said Paul Allen Billings, founder of KFTTA and WUVS 103.7 The Beat. “The essay contest not only showcased their understanding of Black history but also their potential as future leaders. Many of these students have never left the Midwest, let alone the country. This journey will not only broaden their horizons but also inspire them to dream bigger and reach higher.”
The itinerary promises a rich cultural experience across West and North Africa. In Ghana, students will visit historical sites like the Elmina Slave Castle and the W.E.B. DuBois Centre in Accra. New to this year’s program is Egypt, where they’ll marvel at the Pyramids of Giza, encounter the enigmatic Sphinx, and experience the bustling markets of Cairo. The journey will also take them to the ancient city of Luxor, where they’ll explore the awe-inspiring Valley of the Kings, home to the tombs of pharaohs including Tutankhamun, and witness the grandeur of Luxor Temple and Karnak Temple Complex.
Since its inception in 2017, the KFTTA program has sent over 40 high school students from Michigan & Florida to Africa, all free of charge. This remarkable achievement underscores the program’s commitment to creating life-changing opportunities for underprivileged youth.
While the program has received early local support from Corlis Watkins-Nass & Robert Nass and The Community Foundation of Muskegon, KFTTA is now calling on the wider community to help make this life-changing opportunity a reality for these deserving students.
“Every donation, no matter the size, brings these kids one step closer to an experience that will shape their futures,” Billings added. “We’re not just sending them on a trip; we’re investing in the next generation of leaders, thinkers, and global citizens.”
The kids leave for Africa the last week of June.
Donations can be made through the program’s GoFundMe page:
GoFundMe.com/f/2025-kids-free-trip-to-africa
About
Founded by Paul Allen Billings of WUVS 103.7 The Beat, the Kids Free Trip to Africa Program provides life-changing travel opportunities to deserving students from underprivileged communities in Muskegon, Michigan, fostering global understanding, personal growth, and community development. Since 2017, the program has sent over 40 high school students to Africa for free, selecting its participants through an annual Black History Month essay contest, celebrating academic achievement and cultural awareness.
For press inquiries, contact 1037thebeat@gmail.com or 231-727-5007