By Rudy Sablon, The Motivational Edge Rudy Sablon is the Director of Programs for The Motivational Edge, a nonprofit that uses the arts to inspire youth towards academic achievement, increased self-confidence and building essential life skills. Below, he writes about a student performance showcasing many of the lyrical expression and audio recording program students, which is being funded by $50,000 in support from Knight Foundation.

Where would you be able to find a culminating celebration of youth in the Arts, scholarships and creative musical works throughout the community – all the while having an amazing time? Why in a place that reverberates its uniqueness throughout Miami regularly and has quickly become one of South Florida’s premier events and live music venues located in the heart of Miami’s growing Design District. The Stage, located at 170 NE 38 ST, will play host to The Motivational Edge’s second annual Student Showcase of Arts Excellence this Friday, August 8th from 5PM – 10 PM.

Come check out some of these incredibly talented under-resourced kids performing original musical pieces; including spoken word, rapping, singing, as well as, displaying stimulating fine & visual art samples. “I am so very proud of all the time, dedication and preparation that these youth put forth with our staff to polish and hone their talents for this showcase. I am extremely excited to see the results of their efforts.” Stated Ian Welsch, Founder and CEO of The Motivational Edge. Many of the presenting students come from The Motivational Edge’s Lyrical Expression and Audio Recording classes, which is available to them because of a generous grant from the James S. and John L. Knight Foundation; all taking place at The Edge’s Irie Foundation Allapattah Music and Literacy Center.

This event, which is free and open to the public, isn’t only a great chance to see some of Miami’s freshest artistic up-and-comers but a great chance to witness live paintings by local mural artists, get great giveaways and the opportunity to win fantastic raffle items! Oh yeah, and the VIBE 305 food truck will be in the house serving up some salubrious delicacies. Not to mention some of the eminent local artists and celebrities which will be present and performing at this crowning event which is being offered with support of the Miami-Dade Department of Cultural Affairs, the Cultural Affairs Council, the Mayor, and the Miami-Dade County Board of County Commissioners. World renowned and locally raised celebrity and supporter of The Motivational Edge, DJ Irie said “Together we are building the foundation for our future Leaders of society, and we are proud to have made this step in the journey towards self-improvement and self-expression for our young people of South Florida.”

This Friday come to check out the music, come to check out the art or even grab a bite – or more importantly, come and support these local youth and this organization which has not only become a beacon of light within its community but a staple that will continue to shine bright for all youth to find!

To RSVP for this event or to get more information on The Motivational Edge please call 305-350-3950 / email us at: [email protected] or visit us at: www.TheMotivaitonalEdge.org