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Iconic, intentional, and deeply rooted—three words that describe both the city of Atlanta and Emmy Award-winning actress and producer Storm Reid. Over MLB All-Star Weekend, Storm brought her light, leadership, and love for her hometown to New Balance’s exclusive pop-up experience in Atlanta’s historic Krog Street District. Surrounded by nostalgic MLB installations, custom merch drops, and a room full of creative energy, the private mixer served as more than just a brand activation—it was a celebration of culture, legacy, and purpose.

From the moment guests walked into the immersive space, it was clear: this wasn’t just about baseball. This was about Black excellence, Southern storytelling, and how style, sport, and social impact all intersect through Atlanta’s unique lens.

Check out the full interview on YouTube: 

“Atlanta is the heartbeat.”

In a heartfelt one-on-one interview, Storm spoke candidly about her connection to the city that raised her. “Atlanta is the heartbeat of Black culture,” she shared. “It’s where the Civil Rights Movement was rooted, where we shaped music, fashion, education, and everything. It taught me who I am, and it’s why I’ll always give back.” And give back she does. Storm, alongside tennis champion Coco Gauff, recently led the revitalization of Brownwood Park—a meaningful investment in East Atlanta’s youth, which is a bold reminder of what’s possible when young Black women lead with vision and impact.

More Than a Moment—A Movement

The New Balance x MLB pop-up wasn’t just a space to flex fits and catch vibes; it was a tribute to legacy. With curated installations highlighting the historic contributions of the Atlanta Braves players to players across Major League Baseball, the event set the tone for how heritage and Innovation can exist in the same room.

Guests left with exclusive gifts, photo ops that felt like time capsules, and a renewed sense of pride. But the most powerful takeaway? Storm Reid’s unwavering commitment to lifting others as she climbs. “I’m proud to say I’m a graduate now,” she smiled, referencing her recent academic milestone. “But I’m still learning, still growing. I want to tell stories, not just as an actress, but as a filmmaker. I want to create space for young creatives, especially Black girls, to dream bigger.”
With a new Netflix production on the horizon and her film company beginning to take shape, Storm made it clear she’s not waiting for doors to open—she’s building them.

New Balance Sets the Standard

Partnering with Reid during one of Atlanta’s biggest sports weekends was a strategic move that felt authentic. New Balance continues to evolve from athletic staple to cultural powerhouse, aligning with talent and causes that drive community, fashion, and forward-thinking conversations.

And if this activation was any sign of what’s to come, New Balance isn’t just showing up in Cities—they’re investing in their soul.

Final Words:

Storm Reid isn’t just one of the most versatile young actors working today—she’s a movement in herself. From Brownwood Park to big screens, from set to community centers, her story is one of purpose-driven power. And with partners like New Balance backing her, the next chapter looks unstoppable. Atlanta raised her—but now, she’s raising the bar

Words by Mo Spearman | Photos by OJ DID IT