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The Wave
The Wave is where all aspects of Next Wave come together to form one community. Dive into a collection of features, submissions, updates, resources and more.
Goodnight by Johanna Marcelin
When I go to sleep tonight I dare myself to see the light Ignore the faults of the stars And follow the chasing cars Dream of nightmares that bring joyful tears And pray prayers that only the Lord can hear. Embrace the pain that I ignored for so long Remember the things that kept me strong When I wake up I expect not to feel beaten-up Not too broken Not overfilled with a wide range of emotion I am not a ball to be tossed around But a royal ready to be crowned Yet when I sit o
Mar 11 min read
This is Not What I Wanted by Rashida R.
Do you know that feeling when you can sense everyone's eyes on you–like you’re the only one in the room being looked at, and you don’t know why? Well, that’s what I felt at that moment: like an outsider. I’m not a bad creature. I’ve made mistakes and will probably make more, just like an egg falling off a wall, or people dropping a bucket of water down a hill. Though, do you see them getting shamed for their mistakes, or looked at like they will butcher the entire town?No. B
Feb 235 min read
The New Tide: New Year, New Wave
As we step into 2026, Next Wave is entering a new chapter, one we’re calling The New Tide . The New Tide represents a new wave of youth voices, creativity, and leadership rising together. After a quieter period of building behind the scenes, Next Wave is expanding beyond its early phase and moving toward something bigger. What Is The New Tide? The New Tide is about: Emerging talent stepping into visibility Momentum after a quiet period of growth Next Wave expanding beyond its
Jan 162 min read
Introducing the Creative & Media Marketing Team
Next Wave is growing, and with that growth comes new energy, new ideas, and new people helping shape what this platform becomes. Now, we’re excited to introduce the very first Creative & Media Marketing Team, a group of talented, motivated teens who are already helping bring the wave to life. Say hello to Cynthia, a senior and Briana, a sophomore—the newest members of our team! Even though they’ve just joined, they’ve already become an essential part of our workflow. From bra
Nov 15, 20251 min read
November Prompts and Inspiration
November is that perfect in-between month. Hopefully you've already gotten adjusted to the swing of the school year, winter is around the corner and so is the holiday season. This month is all about taking a breath and slowing down to find the beauty and meaning in the things you don't often take the time out to acknowledge. The simple stuff that makes life feel warm, calm, or even a little nostalgic. It’s also the season to reflect, to think about how far you’ve come this ye
Oct 27, 20252 min read
Look Don’t Touch by Briana Johnson (Colorado, 16)
About This Piece I did this artwork because I’m mixed with black and white and I’ve always felt out of place like I’m too white for black...
Oct 11, 20251 min read
portal by Zheyre T
About This Piece It’s inspired by an idea of leaving reality and entering an unknown world. The subject is based off of myself if I...
Oct 8, 20251 min read
What’s Next for Themes at Next Wave
When we launched our very first monthly theme in September (Fresh Starts), we were so excited to try something new for our community: a...
Oct 1, 20252 min read
Fresh Starts
There’s something special about September. It feels like the ultimate reset button—new classes, new routines, new friends, and new...
Sep 29, 20251 min read
Last Call: "Fresh Starts" Will Be Up on The Wave Tomorrow
Tomorrow’s the big day—September 29th! This is the last reminder to be featured in our very first themed roundup. If you want your work...
Sep 28, 20251 min read
Reminder: "Fresh Starts" Will be Up in 4 Days!
We can’t believe how quickly this month has flown by, and that means it’s almost time to wrap up September’s theme: Fresh Starts. This...
Sep 25, 20251 min read
A Look Into the Future at Next Wave
Next Wave started with one simple idea: to spotlight the next generation of teen creators in all disciplines. Whatever your craft,...
Sep 14, 20254 min read
Arts or Crafts? How to Tell Where You Shine
Some creators thrive on emotion, imagination, and self-expression. Others find their spark in strategy, problem-solving, and building...
Aug 11, 20252 min read
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