The BE Side Organzation
OUR HISTORY
Founded January 20th 2023, The BE Side Organization emerged from a powerful confluence of online community, shared ambition, and a dedicated drive to give back. Its roots trace back to a 2022 gathering in Baltimore, Maryland, where performers from a live streaming platform and local DJs united with a singular vision: to transform an informal meetup into a force for positive change within their community and beyond.
This inaugural event—orchestrated by DJ Shannell B. alongside a collective of passionate moderators and volunteers—transcended a typical social gathering. It was a “meetup with a purpose,” designed to champion the advancement of performers within both digital streaming spaces and the Baltimore music scene. Demonstrating an immediate commitment to community impact, the event incorporated a music festival element that raised awareness for breast cancer prevention and honored the memory of a loved one. The resounding success of this gathering laid the foundation for what officially became The BE Side Organization on January 20, 2023.
From its inception, the organization coalesced around five guiding principles:
- Well-being: Prioritizing the mental and physical health of artists and community members.
- Awareness: Raising consciousness around crucial social and health-related causes.
- Advancement: Supporting the professional and creative growth of fine and performing artists.
- Youth Collaboration: Mentoring and fostering opportunities for the next generation of talent.
- Scholarship: Providing educational funding and resources to young individuals pursuing their aspirations.
Our 2026 Strategic Evolution & Mission Focus
Over the years, The BE Side has orchestrated dynamic virtual and in-person events spanning Maryland, Los Angeles, New York, and international streaming platforms.
In September 2026, our board officially approved landmark bylaw amendments to refine and maximize our impact. While maintaining our global virtual connectivity, The BE Side has officially shifted its core mission to focus directly on empowering youth and students under the age of 25 residing in Maryland.
Through hands-on workshops in the art of DJing, livestreaming masterclasses, interactive showcases, and dedicated scholarship funds (including our ongoing support for institutions like Bowie State University), we are building direct, sustainable pathways for young creators.
The BE Side’s journey is a testament to the power of creative communities translating into tangible, real-world impact. As we expand our youth programming and governance across Maryland, we remain steadfast in our purpose—ensuring that The BE Side Organization, “the bonus track to your next record,” continues to uplift, educate, and inspire the next generation of performance.
Who We Are
Our Mission
Target Audience: Serving youth and students under the age of 25 residing in Maryland (while offering virtual access globally).
Core Offerings: Delivering hands-on programming in the art of DJing, live streaming, DJ masterclasses, BE Side exhibits and showcases, and higher education scholarships.
Organizational Goal: Streamlining operations away from adult memberships to dedicate resources, grants, and sponsorship funding directly toward youth development, artistic education, and creative pathways for young performers.
Our Vision
The BE Side’s vision is to be a transformative force in the fine and performing arts by leveraging digital and in-person platforms to build sustainable pathways, educational equity, and creative empowerment for the next generation of artists.
Annual Reports