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
