I once heard that the world changes one person at a time. I never really knew what that meant until after I attended The Shyne Awards at The Kelly Strayhorn Theater. The Shyne Awards recognizes African-American young adults ages 13-19, for their achievements in Arts, Academics, Community Service, Service in Ministry, and Entrepreneurship. Watching these young people get recognized changed my whole perspective on life.
Through The Shyne Awards, I realized that there are African-Americans that do something positive with their life, and that I can also do something positive with mine. The first step I took was joining the youth dance team at my church, Mount Ararat.
During The Shyne Awards I saw that African-American youth do get recognized by adults for their achievements, and not just for violence. This has shown me that I should try to do my best in everything I get involved in.
As you can see The Shyne Awards showed me a whole new perspective. I now volunteer at the Hazelwood Head Start and at Sacred Heart's preschool. I now know what people mean when they say the world changes one person at a time.
Deja H., 12 years old, Hazelwood
My mom made me attend the Shyne Awards when it was on the Gateway Clipper Boat and this year I asked to attend the event myself. I think it is great that your company made a show that awards teenagers for their hard work. I like that you can see what good things teenagers are doing around the city. I also like that it is not long and boring. I plan to come next year and my goal is to one day get a Shyne award.
Maria D., 11 years old, Garfield
I loved the Shyne Awards! It was very exciting and well-planned. The show motivated me to improve my grades and to get more involved in my community. I definitely plan to attend next year and someday soon I will be nominated and win a Shyne Award, too.
Anthony D., 15 years old, Chartiers City
As a performer at last year's event, I had the fortune of being a part of history. The SHYNE Awards is an exemplary movement that motivates youth to become active leaders in the community, church, and city. I believe the SHYNE awards is more than deserving of Pittsburgh's gratitude and support.
John W., 17 years old, Wilkinsburg
