Usher Raymond IV recently celebrated the 15th anniversary of his non-profit organization The New Look Foundation in Atlanta, Georgia. Atlanta native Ludacris hosted the star-studded gala, which drew around 450 attendees. Celebrity guest in attendance included director Kenny Leon, boxing icon Sugar Ray Leonard; singers Rico Love, Josh Kauffman, super producer Jermaine Dupri, Blake Shelton, and producer and songwriter Bryan Michael Cox.
The President’s Circle Awards Luncheon was held at the St. Regis Atlanta hotel (in the upscale Buckhead neighborhood). Usher created the organization at the age of 20, with the backing of his mother.
The luncheon celebrated community influencers that have inspired youth to pursue their passions while making a significant impact in their respective professional fields. Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed was honored with the Service Legacy Award alongside other notable honorees that included sponsors and outstanding students. The foundation raised more than $1 million through the luncheon. A live auction was held during the ceremony which raised an additional $98,000.
Former U.S President Bill Clinton, actor Robert De Niro and singer Pharrell Williams all posted video messages congratulating Usher on foundation’s success.
Usher’s foundation has helped more than 21,000 worldwide since its 1999 bright beginning. The mission of the foundation is to grant disadvantaged youth the exposure to talent, education, career and service as the program provides mentors, internships, and travel opportunities.
AllHipHop’s Rea Melissa Davis caught up with Usher, Ludacris, Sugar Ray Leonard, Josh Kaufman, Kenny Leon, and some of the honorees to discuss how important it is to empower today’s youth. Check out our red carpet video below.
Photo by Moses Robinson/Getty Images