What is considered by some to be a cultural “best kept secret” is abuzz: the annual NAACP Afro-Academic, Cultural, Technological, and Scientific Olympics, in short, the acronym ACT-SO program.
The ACT-SO National Competition for 2011 commenced on July 21st in California, at the Los Angeles Convention Center. There were about 800 participants from cities all across the country from Norwich, Connecticut to San Diego, California who competed all day long.
The awards ceremony that took place on July 24th was likened to the “Academy Awards” for black youth honorees, as the winners were presented medals, monetary rewards, and other gifts for their achievements.
California’s Governor Jerry Brown addressed the students and the audience at large, as did many other luminaries including NAACP’s Roslyn Brock, Chairperson of the Board of Directors, and Benjamin Jealous, President and CEO (NAACP is the acronym for National Association for the Advancement of Colored People).
Now in its 33rd year, ACT-SO was conceived and founded by pioneer journalist Vernon Jarrett who once said: “It is urgent that we resort to a strategy based upon our history of winning against the odds,which can keep alive the inspiration and the learning required to solve complex projects, issues and situations. Our history says: We must never write off the potential for greatness among and of our beleaguered youth. Never!”
Greeted by ACT-SO National Director, Anana Kambon, who also executive produced the classy ceremony, the air was filled with excitement and anticipation. Some of the presenters on hand included Hollywood stars like Lamman Rucker (“Meet The Browns”, “Why Did I Get Married Too”). Receiving thunderous applause as he stepped to the podium, Rucker lauded film executive Tyler Perry’s amazing journey as a model for the students and emphasized focus, dedication, and commitment to their crafts.
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article courtesy of Eurweb.com
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