young

2017 marks the third year for the Young, Gifted & Empowered Awards (YG&E)  presented by Patty Peck Honda.  YG&E is scheduled for Saturday, March 4, 2017 at Jackson Prep School. The red carpet reception begins at 5:45 p.m. and show starts at 7:00 p.m.

YG&E recognizes exceptional young African American professionals from Mississippi who are champions in the arts, business, philanthropy, education, innovation and leadership. Additionally, the honorees are between the age 25-45 and have demonstrated a noteworthy commitment to excellence and community service; a high level of character, leadership, and innovation.

L-R Dr. Roderick Jackson, Sheena Allen, Chef Nick Wallace, Dr. Olurotimi Badero, Cathy Lott Northington, and Dr. Rodney Washington

The 2017 honorees are: Dr. Roderick Jackson, Innovator of the Year; Cathy Lott Northington, Leader of the Year; Chef Nick Wallace, Philanthropist of the Year; Dr. Rodney Washington, Educator of the Year; Dr. Olurotimi Badero, Entrepreneur of the Year; and Sheena Allen, Innovator of the Year.

“We are extremely excited about this year’s honorees. They all are so deserving and are truly doing great work in Mississippi and beyond. They make us proud and we are honored to acknowledge all that they do,” said Shameka Reed, founder of YG&E.

Similar to the NAACP Image Awards, YG&E has a stellar lineup of performances. Comedian Rita B returns for the second year as the host. She is accompanied by electrifying performances from choreographer Tiffany Jefferson, violinist John Uzodinma, Hip Hop artist Silas, singer Clinton Babers III, and Snarky Puppy member and musician Shaun Martin, just to name a few. There is also a special tribute to celebrate 200 years of Mississippi music as an ode to the state’s bicentennial.

“The performances for YG&E are always amazing. We take a lot of thought in inspiring and entertaining you with young, talented individuals mostly from right here in our own state. No one can ever deny the talent that is in Mississippi.”

Young, Gifted & Empowered is free and open to the public. Tickets can be downloaded at www.yge17.eventbrite.com. For more information, visit www.savvylifemagazine.com.