‘There’s Always Room For Change, When Finding Your Purpose’
Founder and President of the Kids League, Surayya Barbee traded a life of ‘fame’ and ‘popularity’ for one of ‘purpose’ and ‘fulfillment’. The bronx-native started a non-profit organization in 2014 to empower impoverished youth with the tools to develop great coping skills, organizational structure and preparation for LIFE.
The Kids League motto is simple yet powerful: ‘BE YOU’. Through art, fashion, music, team building activities, and critical thinking skills, students of the kids league are taught the importance of self-expression and self-awareness.
Last week, I had the honor of covering the media for the first anniversary event of The Kids League held in Manhattan, NY. It was an evening filled with scrumptious hors d’oeuvre, refreshing cocktails by ‘Unique Syrups’, food catering by ‘Omar’s Kitchen’ along with great music and fun. Other sponsors include PYNK, BMI, and Metus.
The celebration paid tribute to Surayya for her hard work and dedication with the Kids League, and it honored influencers who dedicate their lives to public service, using their ‘Make It Happen Power’ to invest, to rebuild, and bridge the gap in their communities.
Honorees included Janine Saulsbury [Founder of Share4Life] Athena Castillo [Founder Of Artists Making Changes] , Shaun D. Francois [President Local 372 Bd. Of Education Employees], Darek Robinson [VP Grievances/Legal Service SSEU Local 371] , Sylvia White [Chief Of Staff Of Harlem Hospital] and Willie Walker [Superintendent Of Harlem State Office Building].
Darek Robinson summed up the thoughts of all the honorees during his speech award while discussing his passion for youth development, and the role each of us plays as a mentor and advocate to a child. In his closing speech he said:
” I Am Humble To Accept This Award, I Am Humble Because I Come From Humble Beginnings & I Am Humble Because I Am No Different Than The Kids That We Are Supporting Tonight. “
A live art show was provided by ‘Oh Yes It’s Roxanne’ and attendees enjoyed tasty treats and cupcakes by ‘Tres Cupcakes’, and provided with an unlimited photo booth session by Focus & Fabulous Events.
” The Kids League acknowledges that children in low-income areas have limited resources for continued growth. “It takes a village to raise a child” and The Kids League is that village.
Our programs are educational activities, which have a concentration in Music, Sports, Fashion, Arts, and Health &Wellness. We appeal to children 4-12 years of age. We aim to improve the skills our children already possess in these special areas of interest. “
Take a listen to an excerpt of Surayya’s testimony below:
One Love PLUMS!