Alabama A&M University sophomore Jay Mayes Jr. is building a future that blends financial expertise, creative storytelling, and community impact. The Montgomery, Alabama, native and accounting major has been selected as a Blaze Fellow, joining a competitive program designed to prepare emerging leaders for today’s digital economy.

Blaze Group, based in Huntsville, Alabama., is a globally recognized fintech education platform. Through partnerships with universities, workforce organizations, and industry leaders, the program provides mentorship, resources, and real-world case studies that equip students to design inclusive financial systems.

For Mayes, who is part of AAMU’s award-winning Crew 75 creative content team, the fellowship is a natural extension of his passions. He is using his photography skills to help capture the story of Blaze Group’s work, documenting the impact of fintech education both on campus and in the community.

“The fellowship gives me the chance to learn, develop, and prepare myself for the next level,” Mayes said. “Photography allows me to show the story of what the Blaze Fellowship represents, while the mentorship is preparing me for my career goals.”

Mayes’ career aspirations include becoming a government or IRS accountant, and ultimately opening his own banking firm to provide loans that support and uplift underserved communities.

He credits Alabama A&M with giving him both opportunities and direction.

“I chose Alabama A&M because I come from a long line of Bulldogs,” he explained. “I’ve seen the growth and opportunities A&M provided my family, and I wanted that for myself. One of my best experiences here has been joining Crew 75. It turned my photography hobby into a job and gave me skills I’ll use forever.”

Mayes received the fellowship on September 3 and described his initial reaction as pure excitement. “I was ready to dive in and learn everything I could about the program,” said Mayes.  “One of the first things I did was call my dad and my nana to share the news with them.”

Now, he is eager to apply the lessons of the fellowship to his academic and professional journey.

“I’m looking forward to growing not only as a person, but also in my career,” he said. “The Blaze Fellowship is designed to guide me, help me grow, and prepare me for my future. It’s an opportunity I’ll never take for granted.”

Mayes, Class of 2027, carries with him the Bulldog pride and resilience that runs deep in his family. A guiding quote he often reflects on is:

“Your story won’t be everybody else’s story,” he said. “It reminds me not to compare myself to others and to stay true to my own path and journey.”