It’s hard to find the words to articulate what B-Boy Young One means to our community. As the founder of 99 Stylez crew, a pastor, husband and lead instructor for All of the Above Hip Hop Academy breaking classes, this man demonstrates leadership at its highest level.
Balancing being both teacher and student, he leads from within.
Although gifted as a point man and commander, he humbly steps into whatever role is necessary to move the mission forward. With wisdom, humility, strength, dependability, style and grace, Young is a foundational piece to AOTA Creative and All of the Above Hip Hop Academy’s impact.
A quick story: Before the Academy had become a non-profit organization, there was a point where the future of AOTA was uncertain. One of our foundational convictions is to offer artists fair compensation for their time and talent while eliminating financial barriers to ensure anyone interested in participating in our programs can do so.
At that time, we were unable to carry out this core value without putting an enormous strain on our administration and mentors. Without being asked, Young and fellow breaking instructor Flava Vitz, stepped up to teach weekly breaking classes on a voluntary basis. It was a sobering reminder of our work’s value; not only to the community we serve, but to the artists we partner with. They did this faithfully for 2 years, running a successful breaking program, building a solid rapport with students, families, and the community all as a donation to the cause!
If it wasn’t for the care and commitment of Young and Vitz coupled with the generosity of Riverview Church, All of the Above Hip Hop Academy wouldn’t have made it through the period where only an extra measure of altruism could carry us.
It is an absolute privilege to honor this man. Join us by doing the same.
Thank you, Young. |THIS.
All of the Above HipHop Academy is a 501(c)3 organization of artists and educators using the elements of Hip-Hop culture to mentor youth, support their artistic expression, build their confidence, and nurture their development into community leaders. Our program teaches writing, break dancing, music production, and street art, meeting the needs of the youth across Lansing, MI
[Written by Ozay Moore]
We go “Above & Beyond” every Wednesday at 8:00 AM!
