(New York, NY- January 28, 2025- I WILL GRADUATE Youth Development Program today announces the Attendance, Academic, & Athletic Incentive Program (AAA). This initiative aims to empower New York City’s youth by rewarding excellence in school attendance, academic performance, and athletic engagement.

This Partnership addresses critical challenges like chronic absenteeism while fostering a culture of achievement, engagement, and resilience. This program will empower youth to achieve success by promoting consistent attendance, academic growth and athletic participation through encourangement, recognition and rewards, ultimately creating school environments where these elements are championed as interconnected pillars of student success.

The AAA Program features a unique school-based point system where students earn points for consistent attendance, strong academic efforts, and participation in extracurriculars. To combat truancy, the program includes mentorship opportunities, interactive events, and celebrity guest visits by figures like Jim Jones to motivate students and highlight the value of hard work. The initiative will launch in Harlem as a tribute to Jones’ dedication to his community and will expand to select New York City schools, blending mentorship, motivation, and engaging activities to inspire academic and personal excellence.

“Harlem is my heart, and the youth here deserve every opportunity to shine,” said Jim Jones, founder of VampCares. This program is about investing in our kids, giving them tools to succeed, and showing them that their efforts will always be celebrated.”

Renowned for hosting the largest annual youth empowerment event in New York City, the I WILL GRADUATE Youth Development Program has 20-year proven track record of fostering academic success, personal growth, and resilience in student. through a combination of mentorship, skill-building workshops, educational support, and community engagement, I WILL GRADUATE empowers young people to overcome obstacles and reach their full potential. With a commitment to improving attendance, academic performance, and overall well-being, the program has positively impacted thousands of students. Its partnership with, Reebok, Nautica, Vince Camuto and VampCares will further expand its mission, bringing invaluable resources to schools in need and extending its reach to new audiences, ensuring even more students benefit from I WILL GRADUATE’S transformative impact.

“I am grateful to be partnering with Reebok, Nautica, Vince Camuto and VampCares on this initiative, said Tonya-Lewis-Taylor, Executive Director of I WILL GRADUATE. “Empowering our youth is at the heart of the work we do, and this collaboration will provide students with the tools, mentorship and resources they need to succeed both in and out of the classroom. Every student deserves the opportunity to thrive, and we are committed to continuing our work to ensure they have the support and encouragement to reach their fullest potential.”

The AAA Program is more than an initiative-its a promise to uplift, inspire, and transform the lives of New York City’s youth. By combining the influence of global brands, passionate leaders and community-driven programs, the partnership aims to create a brighter future, one student at a time.

About the Entertainers For Education Alliance, Inc./I WILL GRADUATE Youth Development Program

Entertainers 4 Education Alliance, Inc./I WILL GRADUATE (E4EA-IWG) headquartered in New York City, is a 501 (c)(3) founded by Tonya Lewis-Taylor and her husband, J.P. Taylor, have dedicated over 15 years to serving and empowering students, families and the community through their youth development programs, arts-in-education, college and career guidance, mentoring, parent engagement, school and community workshops, exciting events, and the use of multimedia platforms. We also enlist the talents, and resources of the music and entertainment industry along with prominent high-profile individuals to stress the importance and coolness of being educated- “Smart is the New Cool.”

About Jim Jones & VampCares

Jim Jones is a Hip Hop Icon, television star, entrepreneur, and entertainment mogul, best known as a founding member The Diplomats. With chart-topping hits like “We Fly High” and “Pop Champagne,” Jim has expanded his influence into business, including ventures like VampLife Clothing, Vamp Fit, and his wellness brand. As the founder of VampCares, he is deeply committed to giving back to inner-city youth and fostering positive change. Jim’s most recent music projects include Back in My Prime and collaborations with EMPIRE, consistently earning critical acclaim. @jimjonescapo. VampCares is the philanthropic organization founded by Jim Jones, dedicated to empowering underserved communities. VampCares focuses on youth development, education, wellness, and mentorship initiatives. Through strategic partnerships, innovative programs, and hands-on engagement, the organization works to uplift inner-city youth and provide resources that foster academic, personal, and professional growth. VampCares is committed to creating lasting change and inspiring the next generation to dream big, work hard and achieve greatness.

About Reebok

Reebok is an iconic and irreverent sports culture brand with a rich and storied fitness heritage dating back 1895. Founded on athletic footwear that changed the direction of sport, Reebok continues to introduce innovations that propel the industry forward. Today, Reebok sits at the intersection of active lifestyle and sport, offering high quality and modern styles that are adaptable for every occasion. The brand strives to deliver every athlete, from professionals to enthusiasts, with the opportunity, products and inspiration to reach their full potential. Reebok currently operates in 80 countries with approximately 400 freestanding stores around the world.

For more information, visit Reebok.com or for the latest news at News.Reebok.com. Discover Reebok on Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

About Nautica

Drawing from the essence of the water and the currents of the world. Nautica is a global lifestyle brand creates style that’s iconic, yet modern and innovative in its fit, feel and function. Nautica is one of the most recognized American brands in the world, with over 70 categories including apparel, accessories and a home collection for men, women and children. Nautica is available in nearly 1,300 freestanding stores and shop-inshops in more than 30 countries worldwide, as well as on nautica.com.

Follow @nautica on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest.

About Vince Camuto

Vince Camuto is an aspirational lifestyle brand known for its signature craftsmanship and stand-out style. Sexy, bold and youthful, the acclaimed designer brand blends European styling with on-trend details and an element of sophistication. The brand has successfully transcended its distinctive women’s collections and today offers a broad range of products including footwear, apparel and accessories for women, men and children, as well as fragrance and home decor. The brand can be found in deparment stores and specialty retailers across North America and select international regions, as well as, on vincecamuto.com. Follow Vince Camuto on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

For media inquiries or additional information, please contact:

For Jim Jones

Chanel Pettaway 917-690-0059 [email protected]

ForE4EA/I WILL GRADUATE Youth Development Program/Tonya Lewis-Taylor

Ayanna Camera 718-385-3133 [email protected]

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Q&A with the Jordan Ayowe, the Visionary Behind the Hidden Opportunity Summit

Q1: What was the driving force behind the creation of the Hidden Opportunity Summit, and how does it align with the current needs of the Brooklyn community?

A: The Hidden Opportunity Summit was born out of a deep commitment to community development, empowerment, and financial literacy. In areas like Brownsville, Brooklyn, there is a pressing need for programs that both educate and inspire. The summit was designed to leave actionable insights and resources, addressing specific challenges like financial insecurity, lack of access, and limited opportunities for youth—all while making it a day of fun. By focusing on sports, clean energy, financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and community engagement, the summit aligns directly with Brooklyn residents’ needs, empowering them to take control of their financial futures and create lasting change.

Q2: In what ways do you see this summit making a tangible difference in the lives of participants, particularly the youth and families involved in the programs?

A: The summit has been meticulously crafted to make a tangible difference, offering hands-on activities and resources while prioritizing the fun, community-focused aspect of the day. The financial literacy seminar, “The Languages of Money,” equips attendees with essential knowledge on budgeting, investing, and debt management. The involvement of local organizations like the Brooklyn Economic Development Center ensures the summit’s impact extends beyond just the event day. For youth and families, the distribution of 200 backpacks filled with school supplies by Vineyard Offshore ensures students are prepared for success. The day’s activities—basketball, ice cream, DJ music, face painting, and water games—create lasting memories while equipping participants with tools to navigate their financial and professional lives.

Q3: As a leader and advocate, how do you envision the Hidden Opportunity Summit evolving in the coming years? What new directions or strategies are you considering to enhance its impact?

A: I envision the Hidden Opportunity Summit evolving into a cornerstone event for community empowerment, not just in New York but potentially expanding to other underserved communities. Future summits will include more targeted youth programs, mentorship opportunities, and expanded partnerships with local businesses to providing job training and employment opportunities. By continuously adapting and responding to the community’s needs, the summit can enhance its impact year after year.

Q4: We know that community engagement is a cornerstone of events like this. How can local residents, businesses, and organizations get more involved in the summit, and what role do they play in its success?

A: Community engagement is indeed crucial to the summit’s success. Local residents participation includes attending the summit, volunteering, and spreading the word within their networks. Businesses and organizations can contribute by sponsoring the event, hosting workshops, or providing resources and materials, like the backpacks distributed this year. Their involvement is essential—the Hidden Opportunity Summit wouldn’t happen without everyone pulling together for the same cause.

Q5: As we look ahead, what are your long-term goals for the Hidden Opportunity Summit? Are there any plans to expand its reach or introduce new initiatives that will further empower the community?

A: Our long-term goal is to establishing the Hidden Opportunity Summit as a model for community-driven initiatives. We aim to make it an annual staple in New York and other underserved communities. New initiatives will include year-round programs that build on the summit’s themes, a financial literacy curriculum in local schools or a community-based entrepreneurship incubator. These initiatives provides ongoing support to participants, helping them apply what they learn at the summit in their daily lives.

Q6: Can you speak to the impact of having the lineup of prominent speakers and how that came about?

A: The lineup of prominent speakers, including industry leaders and community advocates, played a significant role in the summit’s success. Their expert opinion and insights provided attendees with valuable perspectives on workforce development, business growth, financial empowerment, and more. The range of speakers was a deliberate effort ensuring the discussion was not only informative but also relevant and inspiring to the audience.

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The recent high profile saga between a former club owner and a powerful corporate entity encapsulates this struggle, offering a poignant reflection on the state of the industry today.

• For decades, iconic clubs around the world have served as beacons for electronic music lovers. These venues, whether nestled in the bustling streets of major cities or hidden in idyllic beach locales, were more than just places to dance; they were cultural landmarks. Under the stewardship of visionary owners, these clubs garnered reputations for hosting some of the most iconic DJ sets in history. Their dedication to music and the unique atmospheres they created offered unparalleled experiences, making them must-visit destinations for clubbers from all corners of the globe.

However, the landscape has shifted dramatically as legal battles and corporate interests encroach upon these sanctuaries of sound. In numerous high-profile cases, powerful conglomerates have laid claim to the brands that these clubs cultivated with relentless passion and innovation. Court rulings have effectively stripped original owners of the rights to the brands they nurtured, handing control to entities more focused on profit than on preserving the cultural essence of these venues.

The dance music community has not remained silent in the face of these changes. Social media platforms are ablaze with reactions, many expressing outrage over what they perceive as the commercialization and exploitation of beloved cultural institutions. Comments lament the loss of authenticity, with some users accusing corporations of “prostituting” the brands with overpriced drinks and superficial livestreams. This sentiment resonates deeply with those who value the history of these clubs and the genuine connections they fostered among music lovers.

Yet, amidst the turmoil, new hopes are emerging in the form of grassroots movements and new brands. These entities position themselves as counter-movements to the corporate takeover, championing the core values that made the original clubs iconic. In their eyes, there is no space for diminishing the musical heritage of the past, and their message is striking a chord with a greater community who believe in the sanctity of music and the preservation of its roots.

These new brands aim to create inclusive environments where creativity flourishes and the essence of dance music is honoured. Their missions are clear: to provide spaces where music reigns supreme, free from the constraints of corporate interests. These movements not only offer glimmers of hope but also rallying points for DJs, musicians, and fans who seek to reclaim the spirit of the dance music scene.

Statistics reveal a growing trend of disillusionment among music fans. A recent survey by DIAL News indicated that 62% of dance music enthusiasts feel that the industry is becoming too commercialised, and 58%expressed a desire for more authentic experiences that prioritise music over profit. These figures underscore the importance of movements that address the concerns of a passionate and dedicated community.

The transformation of iconic clubs from revered institutions to contentious legal battlegrounds serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing the music industry. It highlights the delicate balance between preserving cultural heritage and navigating the realities of commercial success. As new brands continue to gain traction, they symbolise a potential shift towards a more balanced and respectful approach to music culture.

In the broader context, this struggle is not confined to any single club or location. It is a global phenomenon affecting the music industry at large. From Berlin to New York, Ibiza to Tokyo, the tension between creativity and commerce plays out in similar ways. Iconic venues that once thrived on their unique identities and loyal followings now face pressures from corporate entities seeking to capitalise on their success. The result is a homogenization of experiences, where the distinct flavours of local music scenes risk being overshadowed by the demands of profitability and brand consistency. 

Five Notable Examples of Commercialised Dance Venues

1. Fabric, London: Fabric has long been a staple in the London nightlife scene, known for its cutting-edge music and vibrant community. However, financial difficulties and legal battles nearly shut it down in 2016. After a temporary closure, the club reopened with new licensing conditions, highlighting the tension between maintaining a cultural institution and navigating commercial and regulatory pressures. (The Independent)​​ (Time Out Worldwide)
2. Output, New York: Output was celebrated for its no-frills approach to nightlife, focusing purely on music and the experience. Despite its popularity, the club closed its doors in 2018. The rising real estate costs and changing landscape of Brooklyn nightlife contributed to its closure, reflecting broader trends in urban areas where cultural venues struggle to survive against commercial development. (Mixmag) (Forbes)
3. Space, Ibiza: One of the most iconic clubs in the world, Space Ibiza, faced significant changes when its lease ended in 2016. The brand was acquired by a powerful hotel group, leading to a rebranding and transformation of the club into a new venue, Hï Ibiza. This shift sparked controversy among long-time fans who felt the essence of Space was lost in the commercialization process​ (Your EDM)​​ (Houston Press)​.
4. Tresor, Berlin: Tresor is a key player in Berlin’s techno scene, renowned for its industrial setting and underground vibe. While it remains a beloved venue, it has faced pressures from Berlin’s rapid gentrification and the influx of commercial interests in the city’s vibrant nightlife, forcing it to balance its underground roots with survival in a changing urban environment​ (TrinColl Commons)​.
5. The Haçienda, Manchester: The Haçienda was a legendary nightclub that played a crucial role in the Manchester music scene and the rise of acid house and rave culture. However, financial troubles and increasing violence led to its closure in 1997. The club was later converted into luxury apartments, symbolising the commercialization and loss of a cultural icon that had once been a hub of creativity and musical innovation​ (Music Gear Hub)​. 

But the resilience of the dance music community offers hope. Independent promoters, underground parties, and innovative festivals are finding new ways to connect with audiences, emphasising authenticity and the raw, unfiltered joy of music. These efforts remind us that while money and power may influence the industry, the true heartbeat of dance music lies in its ability to bring people together, transcending borders and breaking down barriers.

The future of dance music may be uncertain, but one thing remains clear: as long as there are passionate individuals committed to preserving its soul, there will always be a space for genuine creativity and expression. The global music industry must heed the call of these voices, balancing commercial interests with the need to nurture and protect the cultural heritage that makes dance music a vital and vibrant part of our world.

In conclusion, the ongoing battle between creativity and commerce in the dance music industry is more than just a series of legal disputes; it is a reflection of broader trends and sentiments within the community. While money and power may have won significant battles, the spirit of creativity and the love for music continue to inspire new movements and initiatives. These new brands and grassroots efforts represent beacons of hope, reminding us that the heart of dance music still beats strong, driven by those who refuse to let commercial interests overshadow the true essence of the art form.

Rinco Soesman

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