2025 Bloomberg Arts Internship for Rising High School Seniors!
We're excited to announce that the Bloomberg Arts Internship (BAI) program has returned to New Orleans! This incredible program is designed for rising high school seniors in New Orleans, Philadelphia, New York City, Baltimore, Washington, D.C., Boston, and Detroit!
This summer, our BAI interns are working with local arts and culture organizations, gaining real-world experience and getting paid for it! But that's not all—this program also includes professional development sessions, cultural immersion activities, and workshops to help them prepare for college and their future careers.
This is a rare paid opportunity for high school students in New Orleans to gain valuable work experience and get a head start on their professional journey. We are thrilled to support the vibrant creative industries in our city and look forward to seeing the incredible impact these talented students will make.
Follow KID smART on socials to keep up with this year’s interns.
Meet Our Interns
About: Sia Moon is a young New Orleans-based writer, journalist, and photographer. Her writing has been featured in the Eunoia Review, 826 National Anthology, NCE AASA Conference Daily Online, and more publications. Her work has won a Scholastic Writing Gold Key and an Honorable Mention. When she is not writing, she is slumped over grueling schoolwork or pursuing new pastimes.
Favorite Art Form: Creative writing, photography, film and video, and fashion design.
Favorite Artist: James Baldwin
If they made a toy version of you what accessories would it come with? A journal, pen, and a radio/stereo.
What about the BAI Internship are you most excited about? Being able to do something writing and art-related.
What do you hope to accomplish after high school? My dream is to go to college in New York! Hopefully I'll be able to, but I'm also competing for an arts scholarship that partners with schools located in different regions.
About: Angelicia Gordon is a hard working girl who lives in New Orleans, and loves the feeling that art gives. She says this specific feeling can be one word, but for her it's millions since there are millions of emotions poured into every single painting, song, dance, and writing. She says if you really disagree with her then look at a piece of art and determine if only one emotion is displayed in it. She also loves to take photos of people when they are happy because a simple smile is just as valuable as art. Yes, think about it!
Favorite Art Form: Drawing & photography. I like to be able to create anything I want, but with photography I am able to capture a good moment in time that you look back and smile at since you get a nostalgic feeling.
Favorite Artist: Billie Eilish
If they made a toy version of you what accessories would it come with? A mirror because everyone is beautiful/handsome with & without makeup. Also a lollipop because lollipops are the best since they make you feel better!
What about the BAI Internship are you most excited about? Doing something with my life that I love and enjoy, which is getting out the house, meeting new people, & doing art!
What do you hope to accomplish after high school? My dream is to get a good job that I actually enjoy, such as being a famous painter/dancer &/or a traveler.
About: Ani Young was born in New Orleans March 10th, 2008, after Hurricane Katrina, meaning that she did not get to experience the world as her parents did. Even though they did sports, her parents’ generation were outside kids, the city was full of a whole bunch black kids who were comfortable and knew each other well. Now, the only past time she has is to play sports (track & field and tennis if you’re curious). She lives in a city that is undergoing current gentrification and has a heavy police force that would arrest her for being in the wrong place at the wrong time. It does not help that she is a radicalist. Ani looks up to icons like Angela Davis and Malcolm X while also attending protests at the governor's office for the Freedom of Palestine, the re-introduction of Gay rights, and she promotes anti-capitalist ideals. When she is not being a baby activist, she is attending ballet shows and watching musicals on illegal websites while crocheting bags and knitting sweaters. Ani loves the art of crafting and the promotion of human’s rights, and can’t wait to be more involved in her community so she can share her art and plan with them.
Favorite Art Form: Crafting: Crochet, Knitting, Cross Stitching, etc.
Favorite Artist: Franz Gordon
If they made a toy version of you what accessories would it come with?A lamb with a pastel yellow bow.
What about the BAI Internship are you most excited about? Learning more about communications and marketing when it comes to art and its forms while also gaining more knowledge about art in New Orleans.
What do you hope to accomplish after high school? My dream is to make enough money through anesthesiology to travel the world with my lover and my family.
About: Lauryn Landers is a visual arts student at the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts (NOCCA), where she studies full-time. She’s the 2nd place winner in the NAACP ACT-SO competition and received a Silver Key from the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards for digital art. Lauryn also illustrated the Water Wonderful World coloring book and has served as a teaching intern at the Ogden Museum of Southern Art for two years. Passionate about both creativity and helping others, Lauryn plans to study art education or art therapy in college. Her goal is to teach people how to use art as a way to process emotions and find their voice—just like her teachers did for her. Whether in the classroom or a therapeutic setting, she hopes to create spaces where others feel seen, supported, and empowered through the healing power of art.
Favorite Art Form: Mixed media
Favorite Artist: Shawne Major
If they made a toy version of you what accessories would it come with? A number 12 round tip paint brush and a 16 oz pink or purple mug.
What about the BAI Internship are you most excited about? I’m excited to find out things about myself that I don’t quite know yet they say new experiences can bring new challenges so I’m hoping this challenges can show me a new side of myself.
What do you hope to accomplish after high school? My dream after college is to become an art therapist at a clinic or hospital and be a freelance artist on the side so I can still do the things I love.
About: Pan Webster is a senior at Benjamin Franklin High School and the New Orleans Centre of Creative Arts. (That's me!) Pan works in multiple media art forms, in and outside of school, including animation, film, and visual arts. Coming from the melting pot of New Orleans, they work hard to keep their work diverse and reflective of the environment they grew up in. They continue to put various creative input into every piece they’ve worked on, including Pixar’s Inside Out 2, Documentaries on New Orleans, and various animated projects. They work with a diverse group of people in and outside of New Orleans in their self-produced studio, making sure to keep deliberate inclusion as the base of their creative visions, while continuing to build new and creative stories. But beyond everything, they appreciate the opportunity to learn. In the classroom, with friends or alone, they appreciate both teaching others and perfecting their craft the best they can. Their studio (Dead Bolt Studios) was created with the vision to ‘unlock’ and preserve and uplift upcoming indie artists, without the restrictions of most corporate film studios. Their goal overall is to inspire learning in young and old adults alike
Favorite Art Form: ANIMATION!
Favorite Artist: MF (metal face) DOOM
If they made a toy version of you what accessories would it come with? An iPad and leather jacket.
What about the BAI Internship are you most excited about? Getting to know other teenage artists.
What do you hope to accomplish after high school? Getting into the school I’ve applied to in France.
About: My name is Ronald. I was born in New Orleans, Louisiana, although I grew up for about 7 years in Texarkana, Arkansas. I am the youngest child in my family and I am a proud African American. I love to sketch doodles, designs and concepts about multiple different media and genres. I also love to listen to many different genres of music. I don't have a favorite music artist but I love listening to different songs from some artists, one being Kendrick Lamar. I also love to play many different video games. I am also a nerd when it comes to things I love talking about.
Favorite Art Form: Drawing and animation.
Favorite Artist: Ben Schwartz, Jeff Kinney and Kendrick Lamar.
If they made a toy version of you what accessories would it come with? Headphones and a water bottle.
What about the BAI Internship are you most excited about? I am most excited to see the different types of arts that are presented during the internship and saving up money for my own personal goals.
What do you hope to accomplish after high school? To go to college and start my dream career in Art & Animation. I dream of making a popular comic series or animated web series. Or even both.
About: I am from Hollygrove—0017th—the uptown neighborhood of New Orleans. My entire family grew up in that house. I went to school with most the kids on my block.
Favorite Art Form: Painting
Favorite Artist: Maya Angelou
If they made a toy version of you what accessories would it come with? A mic and camera.
What about the BAI Internship are you most excited about? Discovering more ways of art.
What do you hope to accomplish after high school? Travel and do my own thing.
About: Zion Mercadel is an inspiring and passionate artist hailing from the vibrant city of New Orleans. From a very young age, he showed a deep interest in art, often spending hours sketching and painting whatever came to his imagination. Encouraged by his natural talent and love for creativity, he made it his mission to become the best artist he could be. Over the years, he worked hard to refine his abilities, joining local art programs, taking classes, and learning new techniques whenever the opportunity arose. His dedication to personal growth and artistic development allowed him to build a strong foundation in both drawing and painting. As Zion matured, so did his understanding of art and life. Through his creative journey, he not only gained artistic skills but also formed meaningful connections and life lessons that shaped who he is today. His work now reflects more than just technical ability—it expresses emotion, purpose, and a desire to uplift others. Zion create’s with the hope of bringing joy to people, inspiring them to chase their own dreams, and reminding them of the beauty in the world. With talent, experience, and a powerful sense of motivation, there’s truly nothing Zion can't accomplish when he sets his mind to it.
Favorite Art Form: Painting, film, and photography.
Favorite Artist: Micheal Jackson, 2 Pac, Bruno Mars, J Cole, Kendrick Lamar, and Eminem
If they made a toy version of you what accessories would it come with? A pet dog and a book or and canvas.
What about the BAI Internship are you most excited about? I'm most excited about the trips taken every Friday.
What do you hope to accomplish after high school? I would say just about anything in the art field. However for my dream job be able to take of my family.
About: Lux Matt is an activist, poet, author, journalist, and storyteller from New Orleans, Louisiana. They are originally from Baton Rouge, but moved to New Orleans in June of 2021. Today, they call New Orleans home and are a rising senior at Benjamin Franklin Highschool. Lux began writing poetry in eighth grade and has had a growing infatuation with the art form ever since. They have dedicated their life to activism, spending time each summer in D.C. with the ACLU National Advocacy Institute since 2023. Lux is also a proud Junior Producer at Be Loud Studios, where they mentor youth ages nine to fourteen in radio production. This mentorship encourages young people to explore their voices and creativity in an outlet where technology can be used as a tool, not a weapon. Lux finds interest in many different creative hobbies, struggling to choose just a few. These include fiber arts, drawing, painting, singing, dancing, dramatic theatre, musical theatre, songwriting, poetry, playwriting, cosmetic design, graphic design, photography, and journalism. As a creative, they know no boundaries, allowing their art to flow through them in these different outlets.
Favorite Art Form: Graphic design.
Favorite Artist: Chappell Roan.
If they made a toy version of you what accessories would it come with? A carabiner with fun keychains and Burt’s Bees lip balm.
What about the BAI Internship are you most excited about? Building on my work with Be Loud Studios and become a better storyteller and journalist.
What do you hope to accomplish after high school? I would love to be a journalist.
About: Alella Binalla is a 17-year-old visual artist based in New Orleans, originally from Jackson, Mississippi. Alella began painting walls at her dads construction site when she was 11. Though her early work was often flat color, her dad emphasized proper painting technique, instilling a strong foundation of craftsmanship. Her passion for art deepened in 9th grade when she painted her first mural, The Unthinkable Imagination, addressing injustice in the prison system and imagining a world centered on healing and rehabilitation. This project showed Alella the power that art can open up conversations for change. This also showed there can be value and money opportunities when making art. Alella studies visual arts at her home school, Spectrum Arts NOLA School of Visual Arts and Entrepreneurship. Her mentor, Mrz. Journey Allen, encouraged Alella to sell her work to the public. She began selling her art and jewelry at Luna Fête and other art markets. From 2022-2025 Alella has worked on 14 public art projects Through Arts New Orleans Young artist movement project.
Favorite Art Form: Ceramics, don't get me wrong I love classic 2D art from graphite and pencil but i love the tactical part of ceramics.
Favorite Artist: Langston Allston
If they made a toy version of you what accessories would it come with? A car and car keys.
What about the BAI Internship are you most excited about? To move through the internship and then the end reflections that I am going to do at the end.
What do you hope to accomplish after high school? I want to own an art gallery and nail salons.
About: My name is Daron Joseph, born and raised in New Orleans. I go to a high school called New Orleans Center For Creative Arts (NOCCA). I specialize in Media Arts, which is film, editing, photography, etc.
Favorite Art Form: Film
Favorite Artist: NBA Youngboy
If they made a toy version of you what accessories would it come with? A microphone and camera.
What about the BAI Internship are you most excited about? Getting to learn more about the arts in my city.
What do you hope to accomplish after high school? My dream is to be in the film industry.
About: Rah'nae Dozier is a proud New Orleans native with a strong passion for creativity, culture, and community. Deeply influenced by the vibrant spirit of her city, she is a driven student leader, passionate team player, and active change-maker committed to uplifting those around her. At school, Rah'nae holds leadership positions in the Black Culture Club and Student Council, serves as Secretary of Christ in Action, and participates in the Urban Culture Step Team. She also manages several athletic teams—including football, basketball, and cross country—while actively competing in track and field and playing softball. Her involvement reflects a deep sense of responsibility, time management, and teamwork. Beyond school, Rah'nae is deeply active in her church community. She serves in the Media Ministry, Youth Ministry, Dance & Drama Ministry, and sings in the Youth Choir. Her faith plays a central role in shaping her values, leadership style, and desire to serve. In addition to balancing a part-time job, Rah'nae is constantly working toward personal growth and community impact. Known for her strong work ethic, creativity, and heart for service, she continues to seek opportunities that allow her to lead, learn, and inspire.
Favorite Art Form: Digital Art/Graphic Design
Favorite Artist: Tupac Shakur
If they made a toy version of you what accessories would it come with? An iPad and headphones
What about the BAI Internship are you most excited about? I am most excited about the culture experiences.
What do you hope to accomplish after high school? I want to obtain a Masters in Marketing and maybe go on to own a marketing company one day.
About: Treyvon Tillery is from New Orleans and is a rising senior at the International High School of New Orleans. He is a dedicated student and a passionate learner with a strong academic record, continually honing his critical thinking and communication skills at every opportunity. He's involved in the school's student council as an 11th-grade representative, Link Krewe, as a Link Leader who helps Freshmen transition into high school, and he also runs cross-country. Treyvon's commitment to being a leader and role model for his peers demonstrates the importance of a well-rounded education and a strong sense of responsibility. In his free time, he enjoys watching films and television, using them as a source of inspiration for his acting. He is also dabbling in video editing, often experimenting with different styles and sharing his creations online. He plans to pursue higher education in the field of film arts, hoping to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who watch his films throughout his future career, evoking how he feels while watching cinema.
Favorite Art Form: Film-making, Editing, and Acting.
Favorite Artist: Christopher Nolan
If they made a toy version of you what accessories would it come with? A laptop and video camera.
What about the BAI Internship are you most excited about? The most exciting part about this internship is getting the opportunity to work with individuals that I can gain knowledge from. Also being in a creative space that give me the motivation to make art when I'm having artist block.
What do you hope to accomplish after high school? Get into a great college that leads me into my dream job of being a Director of Photography for film.
About: I’m from New Orleans and was born in Houston. I grew up all around Uptown like the 17th and the 3rd Wards. I’m 16 with an arts soul. Their have been many times I’ve been exposed to art and my mom was a big part of that. She would read me poems from her big book and sing me to sleep. I grew up in a proud home of 3 sisters and mom, my dad was up state. I sometimes felt alone because my sisters weren't the type to stay inside for long and my mom was, you know, a regular hard working mom. She always made it home by bed time except for her work days. My sisters are the most important people in the world to me. Tacara does hair—even though she barely does mine—but its okay, I still love her. I’m just a young man trying to find a way out of the hood. I’m into painting and mixing colors to create new things. I’m also into creating sculptures and taking pictures.
Favorite Art Form: Painting, sculptures, photography, poetry, and music.
Favorite Artist: Ydtheillest, Dat1topnotch, Neno Calvin, David Kusher, Screwly G, JP Cooper, Leaf Ward, Aurora, and Lou Deezi.
If they made a toy version of you what accessories would it come with? A canvas shield and a dragon.
What about the BAI Internship are you most excited about? I’m excited about the experiences that I enjoy because I’m making memories to look back on and doing what my heart wants me to do.
What do you hope to accomplish after high school? I want to be a famous singer or sports player or a big artist with many colorful memories.
About: I am a African-American girl born from my mother, Ernestina Conner, who came from West Africa, Ghana and married my father, Cedrick Conner, who was born in Monroe, Louisiana. I’ve been focusing on my career in acting as well as looking into my hobbies such as filming, editing, gaming, cooking, etc. In school I challenge myself by being a Black Culture Club leader as well as being a part of a volunteer club. I plan to join the student council at NOCCA to better the rules of our rulebook. Outside of school I enjoy reading, gaming, taking care of my fish, and practicing makeup. In my future I will be a successful actress doing movies and even being on stage, living a comfortable life.
Favorite Art Form: Performance
Favorite Artist: Anya Taylor-Joy
If they made a toy version of you what accessories would it come with? A burger and my under eye pencil.
What about the BAI Internship are you most excited about? I am most excited about meeting new people.
What do you hope to accomplish after high school? After high school, my dream is to immediately go into acting—whether that be big jobs, small, or in between. I also hope to have my own house/apartment, living independently.
About: Bailee Meredith is a dedicated student leader, community advocate, and a New Orleans native. I have been classically trained in Violin, Piano, and voice. I also have an extensive background in dance training, leading me to be a dance teaching assistant. I have maintained a 4.41 GPA while being co-founder of the volunteer club, leader of the black culture club, student committees, and student council external secretary. Outside of school, I volunteer at the New Orleans East Library. I am also a part of Groundworks Nola, where we are creating a documentary about brownfields in New Orleans East. I am an active company member of Dance for Social Change. While I do love the arts, after highschool I would like to go to college to pursue being an OBGYN.
Favorite Art Form: Music.
Favorite Artist: Lauryn Hill and J Cole.
If they made a toy version of you what accessories would it come with? Glasses and an iPad.
What about the BAI Internship are you most excited about? Preparing for college and get connections with mentors.
What do you hope to accomplish after high school? I want to go to college an major in Health Sciences. I want to become an OBGYN and establish my own practice for low income black women.
About: I'm from New Orleans, LA. I'm fairly new to professional photography. My love for photography started from my love of taking pictures of the natural horizon, then I started getting into videography, and I started my own YouTube channel. Which led me to getting into cinemaphotography and making a film called Infinite Chances that me and my sci high film club submitted to Film Prize Jr. Over time, I have dove deeper into the world of media arts, gaining many unique opportunities that will help me connect with more people in my city.
Favorite Art Form: Film and video, fashion design, photography.
Favorite Artist: Tyler the creator and MIKE
If they made a toy version of you what accessories would it come with? A camcorder or a katana.
What about the BAI Internship are you most excited about? Learning how to use social media to promote businesses.
What do you hope to accomplish after high school? My dream is to photograph GSU Fashion Week, traveling to New York to photograph NY Fashion Week, and becoming an successful YouTuber.
About: Elsie Poynter is a student at Benjamin Franklin High School. She was born in New York, but would definitely consider herself a New Orleans native. Elsie is a devoted, straight A student who loves to learn. She is also passionate about activism and advocacy. She has been a student council representative throughout her entire high school career. She also served two terms on the Louisiana Legislative Youth Advisory Council representing Congressional District 2. Additionally, she was a member of the 2024 Invent 2 Prevent (with the Department of Homeland Security) third place winning team for the publishing of a children's book to prevent targeted violence and hate in school communities. Elsie also worked on a social media campaign to increase awareness for Louisiana's Cancer Alley, and was a student board representative for United Way's high school service competition. Elsie worked as a Youth Research Intern with Tulane's Violence Prevention Institute and the Center for Youth Equity, creating a documentary with her peers about violence in New Orleans as it relates to youth as well as a petition advocating for sustainable funding for youth programs in the city. Beyond her community involvements, Elsie is also fluent in French holding the DELF B2 Diploma granted by the French Ministry of National Education, 2 Gold Medals in the French National Contest, and the 2023 Prix d'Excellence from L'Union Francaise for enthusiasm, achievement, and excellence in the study of French language and culture. She is also Co-President of the French and Francophone Club. In addition, Elsie loves all things creative and artsy. In her free-time she loves to write. She also serves as creative director for her school publication "Humans of Ben Franklin" inspired by Brandon Stanton's "Humans of New York." Elsie loves to read, especially all things philosophical. Elsie also loves to engage with visual art. She has taken art history classes and loves to explore art museums. She paints when she can but wishes she had more time to do so. She also loves the performing arts. She has been in multiple school productions. Her favorite role so far has been Mrs. Bennet in Pride and Prejudice. She loves to listen to musical theatre but also genuinely loves listening to all genres of music. Finally, Elsie loves movies, her favorite of all time is My Girl.
Favorite Art Form: Creative writing and theatre.
Favorite Artist: I'm really loving Ocean Vuong's work right now.
If they made a toy version of you what accessories would it come with? My dog, TJ, and a drink from my favorite coffee shop Trumpet and Drum.
What about the BAI Internship are you most excited about? I'm most excited to meet other passionate people and work on cool projects.
What do you hope to accomplish after high school? I'm still figuring out what I want to do after high school.
About: Ozma Baurick is a writer, visual artist, and actress who attends Benjamin Franklin High School and NOCCA for visual arts. On the weekends, she volunteers at the library, where she teaches English and shares her passion for language learning with others. Ozma learned Spanish for nine years at an immersion school before branching off to learn Chinese in high school, where she has won the “best in Chinese" award three years in a row. She has been living in New Orleans for eight years after living in Washington state. She’s still not completely used to the weather, but has grown to love the city’s festivals and culture. In her free time, when she's not drawing or painting, she climbs for the New Orleans Boulder Lounge youth bouldering team and rehearses monologues for theater class. In the future, Ozma hopes to pursue a career in the arts, particularly visual development or character design for video games and film.
Favorite Art Form: Drawing, but I also like film and painting.
Favorite Artist: Mead Schaeffer
If they made a toy version of you what accessories would it come with? A pair of climbing shoes and a sketchbook.
What about the BAI Internship are you most excited about? Learning about opportunities for making a career in the arts and becoming more connected to fellow artists and art programs in my city.
What do you hope to accomplish after high school? My dream job is to be a visual developer, character designer, or concept artist for the film or video game industries.
About: I am from Lancaster Texas, I am now currently living in New Orleans since 2021. I am Middle Eastern and African American. My cultural background and ethnicity influences the way I perceive art heavily. Living in New Orleans versus a small city in Texas was definitely a culture shock. There wasn't art all around my town like there is here in New Orleans, but living here made me realize that art connects us all and there are also many different ways to express yourself through art. I am a student at the YAYA Arts center, I love discovering new music, and cooking.
Favorite Art Form: Glass blowing, jewelry making, fashion design, photography, painting, and drawing.
Favorite Artist: Snow Strippers, Pierce the Veil, Mindless Self Indulgence, Lil peep, Your Arms Are My Cocoon.
If they made a toy version of you what accessories would it come with? Glasses and a black cat.
What about the BAI Internship are you most excited about? Learning more about the world around me.
What do you hope to accomplish after high school? To provide for myself just by being myself.
About: I was born in Yonkers, New York, but grew up between there and the Bronx. Growing up in New York introduced me to various people and ways of living. I never felt the urge to judge people, so I grew into a very open and accepting person. I was always extremely quiet, yet I've always had a passion for music and arts. Discovering creative worlds from websites like YouTube and places like the local museum and planetarium influenced my journey, even if I didn't realize it at the time. Unfortunately, after my 14th birthday, my mother passed away from breast cancer, so I had to move to New Orleans to live with my older brother and his girlfriend. Moving to New Orleans definitely resulted in some culture shock, but I adjusted pretty quickly, and began making friends and coming out my shell due to the band program and Student Government Association at Rosenwald High School and Walter L. Cohen High School.
Favorite Art Form: Music.
Favorite Artist: Lucki.
If they made a toy version of you what accessories would it come with? My headphones.
What about the BAI Internship are you most excited about? Connecting with new people and making my own art.
What do you hope to accomplish after high school? Having a music career and becoming an activist
About: Skai Daniels is a black artist based in New Orleans. They are a senior in high school currently attending New Orleans Charter Science and Math High School and NOCCA. They specialize in various media, like painting, drawing, sculpture, and digital art. In their art, they love to explore thought-provoking ideas surrounding identity, human desire, and purpose. Besides their Fine Arts background, Skai loves working in illustration, character design, fashion, and writing. Outside of school, Skai likes to play video games, watch movies, cook, bake, and sit in nature. Their favorite video games are Persona 5, Honkai Star Rail, and Bloodborne. Skai has a lot of career options in mind, but one thing they know they want to do is create. Skai has shown in 4 public art exhibits during their time at NOCCA and did volunteer work as a portrait artist. They also run a small business that sells baked goods.
Favorite Art Form: Painting and digital art.
Favorite Artist: Yuko Tatsushima
If they made a toy version of you what accessories would it come with? A pocket watch and an EGL parasol.
What about the BAI Internship are you most excited about? I'm excited to meet new people, learn about architecture and how my organization preserves it, and gain experience.
What do you hope to accomplish after high school? I want to either major in architecture, visual art, or illustration after high school, and I would really enjoy working an art related job or as an architect one day.
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