Yesterday Atlanta’s St.Regis hotel was host to the 16th annual Usher’s New Look, the non-profit organization founded by Usher Raymond IV, President’s Award luncheon. The foundation which is committed to developing future leaders, celebrated its Sweet 16 anniversary at the 2015 United to Ignite Luncheon. Rapper and actor Ludacris joined Usher for the second year in a row to emcee the event. The luncheon is an opportunity for New Look supporters and community influencers to come together, enjoy live music performances by the students, mingle with community influencers and recognize the award honorees whose efforts have transformed the lives of underserved young people around the globe.
“This organization has made an impact on thousands of youth worldwide,” said Usher Raymond IV. “100% of New Look students graduate from high school and 98% go onto college. Today is about celebrating the accomplishments of our award winners who work tirelessly to improve their community. Without them, Usher’s New Look would not be the strong organization it is today.”
Each year, New Look honors individuals, organizations and corporations that are creatively empowering youth as leaders and change agents around the world. This year’s honorees included: Ludacris, award-winning artist and founder of The Ludacris Foundation; Casey Cagle, Lt. Governor of Georgia; Michele Lai, founder of Kids 4 Kids; and Elizabeth Williams, cofounder of Books IV Bonding.
Elizabeth will be presented with the Ignitor of Global Youth Leadership Award for her efforts in forming the nonprofit, Books IV Bonding, alongside her sister Rebecca. Elizabeth joined Usher’s New Look Detroit as a struggling high school student and is now a senior at Grand Valley State University. “Before New Look, I had much insecurity and doubt about what mark I wanted to make on the world,” said Elizabeth. “This organization has taught me to how to have confidence in my craft no matter what. Many important people made that possible, and Usher Raymond is always the glue that holds the New Look experience together.”
Usher also shared a very important goal he had for the New Look Foundation which was to lower the high school dropout rate through his New Look Foundation. He spoke strongly about being committed to developing young scholars through education at his foundation’s 16th anniversary luncheon on Thursday in downtown Atlanta. The Grammy winner told about 400 attendees that he hopes to gain more of their support and along with corporate leaders to “create a spark” for young students.
Usher says his foundation has made a valuable impact with 100% of participating youth graduates from high school to receive higher education or job placement.
The goal of New Look has been to educate young people to speak in public, make presentations and develop their talents. Congratulations Usher on 16 years of service through the New Look Foundation.
