MADE Men Showcase Young, Black, and Gifted
As Black History month comes to an end, MADE Men, an organization chartered on the campus of Southeastern Louisiana University, hosted a showcase to shine light on young, black, and gifted artists, painters and vendors.
MADE Men, a recently new charter on campus, has been providing community service and outreach programs for the city. This organization is trying to change the narrative while also educating good leadership and manhood.
Southeastern is also playing their part for Black History Month with the numerous events and activities provided to students throughout the campus and community. Some of those include the Zeta Phi Beta bake sale, Black Student Union culture night and even soul food night at the cafe.
Black history month is a time to celebrate the positive things African Americans have done throughout history.This night included local black owned boutiques and artist along with spoken word, dance and music performances. It gave students a place to show off all their hard work and dedication.
The showcase was held at the contemporary art gallery on campus. Not only were there performances but also apparel, bakeries, and boutiques. A quick walk around you could see many different styles of art from students.
The showcase started off with the host and MADE Men member, Troy Evans, introducing the first act of the night, Flipside B. Who performed a dance routine she choreographed herself. A very nice way to start the night off.
Next up to the mic was 2uesdai, a rapper who performed her energetic new single, “2 Dollahs.” The song was received well by the audience. When asked how people could further listen to her music 2uesdai responded with, “This was a great opportunity, you can check out my song on Soundcloud and Instagram @2uesdai.”
Asia Nelson was right after. She performed spoken word with an original piece titled, “Things Better Left Unsaid”. An emotional poem about love, trust and hardships that can come with a relationship. Nelson said right before beginning, “Not many people can get into intimate or emotional pieces but this is what I like to talk about.”
The showcase was then followed with music performances from numerous singers, including T-Ross, who performed his single “Ashamed”. There was even some gospel from Southeastern Gospel Choir member Valencia Baker.
More vendors included Endless Waves, who has a visual arts company and designs their own apparel. 3’s A Charm, a boutique owned by Southeastern student Jay Renae. Bella’s Praline & Pastries was also present for the event .
The night showcased many different talents and businesses that we have right here at Southeastern Louisiana University. Many students have to not only balance school but their goals as well. MADE Men took time to not only showcase black excellence, but also how dedicated these students really are.
