“There is no place like Detroit,” says Alvin Lockett, who is better known as “Aj.”

Aj is vice chair of the Devices and Connectivity Committee at Connect 313. He was born and raised in Detroit and has had a passion for technology for as long as he can remember. 

“So many people and organizations need access to technology, and I wanted to be part of the team that makes that possible. Lack of access is a barrier, and to be a solution to that problem is so enjoyable,” he says.

Aj is a Mosaic Youth Theater of Detroit alumnus, and executive director of RTTM Community Center, a Detroit nonprofit that builds hope and access through resident introductions to news industries, individuals and ideas. Additionally, Lockett leads Que Blackout, a youth theater nonprofit focusing on technical theater and content creation. 

“My love of technology and arts merged, and seeing young people create and find jobs in tech, theater and marketing makes my day.”

Lockett initially got involved with Connect 313 at Digital Inclusion Week. After learning more about the program’s mission to bridge the digital divide and connect people with the resources they need – he knew he wanted to play a more prominent role.

In his position at Connect 313, Aj helps grassroots connectivity efforts by ensuring funding goes to organizations that need it the most. 

“As much as I love my city, there can be a considerable gap between the haves and have-nots,” he says. “The Devices and Connectivity team’s goal is to help organizations that fall within the $50,000 to $100,000 range, that target families and communities that need extra help.” 

For Aj, it’s fulfilling work he wants everyone to be part of.

“My life’s mission is to provide hope and access. As part of this team, I can help more people have both,” he says. “I hope others find a way to get involved. Every action builds upon the next; we look up, and it’s a movement.”