INSPIRE Young Men of Color (YMOC) Origin Story

While growing up in the ’80s and ’90s, my siblings and I got scolded if we got bad grades in school. Not doing our homework was not an option. Getting bad grades or acting up in school got us beatings, sometimes in front of the whole class. So you can understand that I did not want to bare the shame and being teased by my classmates if our parents had to lend a hand to our backsides when we acted up in school or did not turn in our homework.

Cause and effect. I did not want to feel the belt to my rear end, so as an effect, I excelled in school. I excelled so much that I received the mayoral award for being one of two people on top of my school’s electronics program. I also received work-study in my senior year and was awarded the opportunity to participate in Morgan State University’s summer engineering program.

I was elated when I learned I was in the summer engineering program. Being in the program will allow me to see what Morgan State University’s engineering program is about and meet new and interesting people my age. Since long ago, I’ve forgotten many facts about how Morgan State ran the program, but two specific things have stayed with me all these years. The first was a creative drawing competition using Autocad (a computer-aided design and drafting software) and the awards banquet dinner at the end of the program.

Introduced to Autocad, the instructors told us how the software works and instructed us how to use it. They gave us a little nugget introduced that day as well. Whoever had the best design using the Autocad program would receive an award at the program’s closing dinner banquet. And naturally, I won the contest using Autocad to draw my favorite video game character at the time, Super Mario Bros – Mario.

Being told I had won the contest, I called my mom and told her about it and that there would be an awards dinner banquet. I begged her to come and bring the rest of the family to support me – to show up. I could have asked her until my face turned dark purple; my mother didn’t budge. She told me that she wasn’t coming.

I remember sitting at one of the banquet tables, an 18-year-old black boy, just looking at the front door, hoping someone I knew would walk through. No one showed up. Being there with all these strangers and their families, and my family is missing in action, created anxiety and embarrassment. I watched the other kids laughing and talking with their families, and I felt truly abandoned. It was a feeling I had never felt before and something I wished for no one. Growing up, I felt neglected before and unloved and cared for, but that day was the worst. Here I won a competition given by a prestigious organization and was receiving an award for being the exemplary child, for doing good, yet no one showed up. No one came to support me.

 As the banquet continued, I kept watching the door – looking and hoping someone would come and support me, but no one did. Then, finally, the hostess called my name to receive my award and give a speech; being on that stage, looking out at those families, it felt like forever. And that feeling of abandonment took root in me, and I was saddened. Walking back to my seat felt like I was being harassed and teased by many bullies. I felt so out of place and wanted to run away.

At the end of the banquet, I had to catch the bus home, and it was a grueling ride. All these thoughts began running through my head. I became upset even more. I was angry. It was the longest bus ride returning to a house where I knew no one cared about me.

“There are miracles and glory in every child. Our glory lies in empowering them to flourish their glory.” –Amit Ray

“Stay focused , go after your dreams and keep moving toward your goals.” — LL Cool J

“When it is obvious that the goals cannot be reached, don’t adjust the goals, adjust the action steps.” — Confucius.

In the summer of 2012, I pondered some decisions I had to make about USL Magazine. I wanted to do something – to help our young black boys, so they wouldn’t have to go through what I experienced. God had me remember the summer engineering program and that feeling of abandonment. It was like the dinner banquet happened the day before. I began to tear up and felt like I was that 18-year-old- black boy all over again. Twenty-two years later, that incident still profoundly affected me as when I was 18 years old. I started thinking that no child should have to experience that feeling. So the inception of INSPIRE Young Men of Color (YMOC) came to be that day. I wanted to be a beacon of light for young boys who do not have the support at home needed to help build, grow, and nurture their aspirations. I wanted to inspire, even with a small gesture.

About INSPIRE Young Men of Color (YMOC)

INSPIRE Young Men of Color (YMOC), creates partnerships between Young Men Of Color, ages 12-18, and mentors winning in their fields. Seven (7) young men with aspirations in the music, entertainment, and fashion industries get featured in a fashion editorial, receive one-on-one podcast interviews and in-person mentorships by leading professionals, and are invited to a Meet-N-Greet DJ/Artists Session – all brought to you by USL Magazine and uslmag.com.

INSPIRE Young Men of Color (YMOC) is presented by 1PKC Media & Publishing Partners, USL Magazine and participating partners. Join us by reaching out to our team or completing the brief form below. Any support (donations, gifts, or your time) will be greatly appreciated and well deserving to those Young Men of Color who dream and uses that dream to fuel their aspirations.

Tree Sound Studios, Atlanta, GA, Photographer, Karlos Matthews, Producers, Christina Fernander & Patrick A. Kelly, Stylists, Producer Papa & Nigel Xavier, Models, Producer Papa & Nigel Xavier, MUA, Patrice Story

Soho/Chinatown, NYC Photoshoot Credits: Photographer, Hyun Gu Kim, Producer & Stylist, Patrick A. Kelly, Models, Donnell Morris and Lance Wilcox, Dancers, Undefeatedonez, Hair & MUA, Dani Scarcella

If you or anyone you know knows Young Men of color ages 12-18 with a great interest in music, entertainment, fashion, and the arts and are passionate about what they do, please tell them about the INSPIRE Young Men of Color (YMOC) Campaign.

Join us by reaching out to our team. Any support (donations, gifts, or your time) will be greatly appreciated and well deserving to those Young Men of Color who dream and uses that dream to fuel their aspirations.

Go To: INSPIRE Young Men Of Color (YMOC) Campaign Presented By USL Magazine and 1PKC Media & Publishing Partners

Event: Bridges For Music
Location: Resident Advisor’s HQ in Shoreditch
Date: Oct 15th, 2023

Sign-Up

Bridges For Music: Returning for their 7th ADE charity cycle after the widely acclaimed event last year, non-profit organization and record label Bridges For Music prepare for their annual 550 KM cycle ride kicking off 15th October. 

Embellishing a cult status as the most highly anticipated charity cycle in the music industry, the yearly event boasts over 120 past industry heavyweight participants like Richie Hawtin, Joris Voorn, Chris Liebing, Pan-Pot, Juliet Fox, Jamiee, and more. DJ Rebekah, who joined the cycle in 2019 and 2020, said that “Joining the ADE/Bridges for Music Cyle was one of the most exhilarating yet challenging experiences, a true test of fitness. All whilst raising money for an awesome cause.”  

Special thanks to ADE and Pioneer DJ for making this cycle possible each year, and to all the teams who have signed up along the way including Pioneer DJ, Awakenings, Armada, Resident Advisor, Beatport, Sonos, Defected, and others. The charity ride will continue to raise money for the Bridges music academy in Langa Township in South Africa and for young students living in under-resourced communities. The £250,000 raised from the event alone has already enabled the Bridges Academy to expand its program and continue its mission to change the lives of youth by ensuring that over 200 students a year receive a free education through Bridges’ growing MUSIC MBA program that combines creative entrepreneurship, mindfulness and music. 

In homage to Resident Advisor who originally kick started the ADE cycle back in 2014, this four-day route will depart on the 15th October from Resident Advisor’s HQ in Shoreditch. Throughout the ride there will be various strategic pit spots, bolstered by support vehicles, expert cycle guides, energy bars, electrolytes and good vibes along the way before crossing the finish line on 18th October and welcomed by ADE.

The cycle is catered toward cyclists with a diverse array of experience and encourages novice riders to participate regardless of capability. Divided into groups of fitness and ability to cycle at around 30km/h avg, 26km/h avg, and 22 km/h avg, – Those who are unable to commit to the full duration of the cycle are welcome to join half or one stage of the cycle tour. No prior cycling experience is needed to complete this adventure, but an easy to follow and realistic training program for busy lives 2-3 months is recommended and for those who don’t own their own bike  a rental bike can also be arranged for £250.

Those interested in entering will receive an ADE Pro pass, three nights accommodation in four star spa hotels, tour guides and support, luggage transport, breakfast and dinner, energy snacks,, an official ADE jersey and your bike returned to London for  a £1,100 entry fee paired with fundraising or a £2,000 entry fee without fundraising. Sponsored entries are also available for companies who wish to enlist a team and your team logo will appear on the special ADE riders kit. 

In addition to the fee, entry requirements include setting up a fundraising page on the Bridges For Music team page, reaching out to networks to encourage donations, and collectively assisting in reaching the 50K target. Repeat  fundraising cyclists will receive a special discount code when signing up. 

To sign-up and secure your spot.

Content provided by: Infectious

Following a magnificent debut in 2022, the alfresco Savour Festival is back once again to tantalise your tastebuds and quench your thirst in one of London’s most storied locations by the Thames. This wondrous weekend offers a comprehensive mix of artisan producers, celebrated bars and restaurants, gourmet experiences, live music, innovative workshops and a wealth of family-friendly activities. These irresistible high summer delights unfold in the picturesque surroundings of Ranelagh Gardens in the historic Royal Hospital Chelsea from July 21st – 23rd. General tickets to this cultured culinary celebration are available from just £16 (under 12s go free) at https://www.savourfestival.com/book-tickets.

Savour Festival is the first festival in a century to take place in these legendary former pleasure gardens on the Chelsea embankment. Towering tipis will stand tall amongst the trees in several clearings linked by meandering paths which lend the festival an effortlessly boutique arcadian vibe. The Royal Hospital Chelsea is also home to the iconic Chelsea Pensioners. The retired British Army soldiers will be welcome guests at London’s most exciting new food festival.

Across the weekend you are free to plot your own gastronomic adventure and roam over 120 food and drink vendors, try a world of delightful new flavours, enjoy dishes – starting at just £3 – from award-winning London chefs, engage with captivating demonstrations, learn about wine tasting and cheese pairings from Shawberry Wine, enjoy a Gaucho steak and wine masterclass, shop for unique artisan products and soak up a party atmosphere with live music adding to the sun-kissed fun. Savour Festival welcomes people of all ages; Sunday, in particular, is geared towards younger foodies with plenty of activities to keep them occupied from arts and crafts to face painting.

A whole world of food is represented in style at Savour Festival with acclaimed restaurants such as Steak and Co, 10 Greek Street, Junsei, Kricket, Angelina, Frenchie Covent Garden, Gaucho, Polpo and Cubitt House all appearing. Other global delights come from the likes of Lebanese street food experts Lil Watan, brioche gourmet sandwiches from La Roulotte, Rack City Ribs, Exmoor Caviar, The Duck Truck, gyozas from Rainbo, hash browns from Hash Hut and all manner of vegan and sweet treats.

Classy cocktails, innovative brews and enticing spirits will flow across the weekend from world-renowned brands and breweries including Maison Mirabeau, H&H whisky, Little Orange Van Aperol, Bisol Jeio Prosecco, Portuguese Vinhos, Sly Dog Rum and Boston Shakers as well as a spread of low and non-alcoholic drinks, soft drinks and coffees.

You will also be able to shop a rich artisan market with offerings from the likes of When in Rome, Ethical Spirits, Magic Knife, Haspaka, Kuda Cocktails, Little Big Flavour Kits, Yaus, Savernake Knives, Lobo Coasters, Green Active, Chilli Maven, Mamma G Cookies, Butternut Box, Soul Fruit, Cat Burglar Dough, Pure Pet Food, Glorious Cup Company, Vino Mojo, Ocadian Fudge, Woodford & Warner, Riverford Organic and ELEAT Cereal.

Savour Festival is the tastiest way to spend a summer weekend in a gorgeous location with an unrivalled mix of classy eats, treats and beats. Make sure you are part of this delicious delight by getting your tickets from £16 now at; https://www.savourfestival.com/book-tickets.

Content provided by: Grounded, London

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On Friday, May 28th, eX Grammy award-winning, and multi-platinum producer, Drumma Boy, “who brought you hits for Usher, Young Jeezy, Waka Flocka, Yo Gotti, TI, Gucci Mane, 2 Chainz, Rick Ross, and more, has joined the tech world with the release of his new app Drumma Boy Official App (Drumma Box), developed by MySeat MEDIA.

Hosted by the mega influencer, Jessica dime, the event was held at House of Fresh, Atlanta, with local and national celebrities such as Drumma Boy, former NBA stars Josh Powell and Lamar Odom (formerly of the LA Lakers), actor Damian “DJ” Jackson, Rico Cola (artist manager), Tommi Cole (DAQ Series), Final Draft (one of Atlanta’s best R&B male groups), many social media influencers, and Atlanta’s rising stars.

“The Drumma Boy Official App (Drumma Box) is an exclusive mix of free and premium paid content giving users the opportunity to experience first-hand the talent and work that goes into producing records for a plethora of artists all from Drumma Boy’s studio. Get a chance to do a virtual meet-and-greet with Drumma Boy, check out unreleased tracks, stream all of his music, view live concerts and listening parties, get some Drumma Boy merch, hear his new podcast shows, and subscribe to receive access to exclusive content.

Click the link and download The Drumma Boy Official App – Google Play Store and get it in the Apple Store. Follow Drumma Boy on IG @drummaboyfresh

Click the link and download The Drumma Boy Official App – Google Play Store and get it in the Apple Store. Follow Drumma Boy on IG @drummaboyfresh

Click the link and download The Drumma Boy Official App – Google Play Store and get it in the Apple Store.

More info on Drumma Boy on IG @drummaboyfresh
Content provided by: MeMe Agency and USL Magazine