Motivating OUR Future Concert Kickoff ‘empowers’ Prince George’s students

On Sept. 26, over 300 high school students from Prince George’s County gathered at the Bowie Center for Performing Arts for the Motivating OUR Future Concert Kickoff. Hosted by LiveLIVE and StaySOLID Youth Mental Health, in partnership with Bowie High School SGA and Students Demand Action, the event sought to inspire and uplift local students through music, self expression and messages of nonviolence.

Inspiring self expression and community unityExecutive Director of StaySOLID, Cornelius Neal McDonald, explained the importance of the event’s mission: “Understanding the need for these events in school is the best part about this tour. Allowing students’ voices to be heard and express themselves is how we get them to align with school system guidelines.”

With a focus on promoting nonviolence and academic achievement, the event brought to light critical issues like gun violence while encouraging self expression and community solidarity.

The night was filled with interactive games, gift card giveaways and live performances by local hip hop artists Jaey Chino Nino Paid, and Yung Manny. Hosted by Neal and radio personality Marky Marc from 93.9 WKYS, the concert combined entertainment and meaningful discussions about success, empowerment and positive life choices.

Bringing together the arts and advocacy“The concert not only entertained our students but also inspired them in ways that are difficult to quantify,” David Duba, a teacher at Bowie High School, said about the concert’s impact. “It fostered a love for the arts and created lasting memories. You empowered our students, created a fun, uplifting event, and connected them with regional leaders.”

The concert served as a precursor to the upcoming “Motivate OUR Future Summit,” set to take place at 10 schools throughout the DMV area and Maryland’s Eastern Shore. The summit aims to continue empowering students by offering practical advice, role models and tools to overcome challenges and achieve their goals.

Setting the stage for a brighter futureThe Motivating OUR Future Concert Kickoff was more than an evening of music; it was a catalyst for positive change. By reinforcing nonviolence and providing a platform for

students’ voices to be heard, the event supported Students Demand Action’s mission to reduce gun violence in schools and communities. Through music, unity, and education, the concert left a lasting mark on Prince George’s County students, motivating them to strive for academic success and make positive life choices.