Like most well-known athletes, giving back is crucial, but only NBA superstar Dwyane Wade puts a twist to the old tradition.
Like most well-known athletes, giving back is crucial, but only NBA superstar Dwyane Wade puts a twist to the old tradition.
The 4th Annual Wade’s World Weekend –– benefiting his foundation that targets organizations supporting and educating children in “at risk situation” on education, health and social skills –– began with a kick-off party Aug. 25 at Enclave with a performance by Grammy award-winning vocalist Estelle.
Wade and George Daniels, of George’s Music Room, joined Estelle on stage for a dance. The playful interaction had the crowd cheering and dancing, while the glare of iPhones and Blackberry’s captured the action.
Estelle, who also has a foundation, “All of Me Foundation," said she was thrilled to participate in Wade’s endeavor.
“To me it’s just helping each other and pushing good work. I think it’s a great initiative, like no one really does it like this and no one goes around town for the whole weekend. He really makes a party of it and I think that’s incredible you know,” the London native told the Defender.
Other activities of the weekend included a teen summit and the Dwyane Wade Chicago Has Talent Showcase for youth.
Chicago-based comedian Lil Rel and BET’s 106 & Park’s Rocsi hosted the Aug. 27 talent show. Judges were Willie Taylor of music group Day 26, singer Drew Sidora, Chicago-based comedian Damon Williams, dance instructor extraordinaire Homer Bryant and “Windy City Live!” co-host Ryan Chiaverini.
“I’m glad he asked me to come back. I’m excited. I think this year he’s going to do even more for the youth,” said Lil Rel, who hosted last year’s competition.
The break dancing family, Chi-Town Finest Breakers won 1st place.
Youth band Kids These Days wowed the packed Chicago Theater with their adult sound and teen singing sensation and Chicagoland native Jawan Harris had the girls screaming as he belted out a few songs, including his popular hit “Keisha.”
Before leaving the stage Harris, who is signed to Jive Records, imparted words of encouragement and support to the youth.
“I was here (talent showcase) in 2009 and didn’t get 1st, 2nd or 3rd place, but look where I am now,” the young crooner said.
ChicagoDefender.com’s Youth reporter Kennedy Katherine contributed to this report.
Copyright 2011 Chicago Defender
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