LIFESTYLE

Former U.S. Vice President Joe Biden And Singer Akon, Named Andrew Young 2017 Awardees

Published

7 years ago

May 12, 2017

The Andrew Young Foundation has announced former U.S. Vice President Joe Biden and popular singer, songwriter, rapper and producer Akon, as recipients of the 2017 International Leadership Awards.

The Foundation, in a statement listed others recipients of the Awards as civil rights icon Van Jones and Women’s March Organisers ad part of the 85th birthday celebration of its founder and Chair, Amb. Andrew Young.

The awards are in recognition of exceptional individuals whose activism, philanthropy and leadership are transforming lives throughout the global community, the Foundation said.

According to Young, a former U.S. Ambassador to the UN: “These award recipients exemplify a personal commitment to helping fellow humankind and achieving progress in global communities.

“Changing the world happens one step at a time, through acts of leadership and courage.

“It is the work of generations, with progress made possible by those who pass on the lessons learned from both successes and setbacks, and most importantly, the necessary knowledge that positive change is indeed possible”.

The foundation said the chairman’s Award would be presented to Biden “whose
lifetime of public service was recognized by President Barack Obama with the Presidential Medal of Freedom”.

Joe Biden

“The honour is given to an individual whose lifelong leadership has demonstrated excellence in areas that reflect Ambassador Young’s life’s work as Pastor, activist, UN Ambassador and Congressman and Mayor of Atlanta.”

The foundation quoted Biden as describing the award as one of the best he had received.

“I value an award based upon the organization giving the award. This is one of the most consequential awards I’ve ever been given,” Biden said.

Akon’s award was in recognition of the Singer’s Akon Lighting Africa project, which is using small-scale solar energy systems and street lights to bring transformational change to communities in Africa whose development has been harmed by lack of electricity.

Linda Sarsour, Tamika Mallory, Carmen Perez, and Bob Bland, National Co-Chairs of the Women’s March on Washington, will jointly receive the award “for inspiring and organizing a worldwide outpouring of positive civic engagement”.

Ron Clark would be honoured for “creating a transformational school that models teaching excellence and nurtures future leaders, and opens its doors to share those strategies with thousands of other educators”.

Van Jones, an activist, commentator, and Dream Corps founder, is being hououred “for promoting human rights and police accountability and helping young people fill jobs, not jails”.

The theme of the 2017 Andrew J. Young International Leadership Awards and 85th Birthday Tribute is “Lead Young,” highlighting the Foundation’s commitment to supporting and developing emerging leaders and their ideas.

The event would include tribute performances from Usher, Jill Scott, Wyclef Jean, Estelle, gospel artist Anthony Brown and more.

The awards will be presented at the Foundation’s gala event on June 3, 2017, at the Philips Arena in Atlanta.

The Foundation said its current programmes are to preserve civil and human rights and help support and sustain future initiatives.

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ENTERTAINMENT

Uzor Arukwe Says Actors Need To Learn To Accept Criticism

Published

24 hours ago

May 28, 2024

Reporter

Uzor Arukwe says actors need to learn to accept criticism | fab.ng

In a recent interview with Top Charts Africa on May 27, 2024, Nollywood actor Uzor Arukwe opened up about the importance of criticism.

He emphasised that criticism, rather than being something to shy away from, is actually a valuable tool for self-improvement. Arukwe believes that constructive criticism can help us learn and grow as individuals.

“I love criticism and feedback because it helps you to become a better actor. You can’t be an actor if you’re not open to criticism,” he said.

Uzor Arukwe didn’t stop there.

He went on to say that actors, in particular, need to develop thick skin. They should learn how to accept feedback and criticism, even if it’s tough to hear and they don’t necessarily agree with it.

“An actor doesn’t need to love criticism, but they must learn to accept it,” he said.

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Uzor Arukwe also shared his thoughts on what makes a truly great actor. He explained that it’s not just about delivering lines perfectly.

“There are too many factors involved. One, for me, is the ability to listen and react accordingly. Also, mastering stillness is important too. In this part of the world, we’re taught to react to everything and every situation. But, in reality, people don’t have to react to every utterance and situation. For me, the ability of an actor to attentively and honestly listen and be still is what makes a great actor,” he said.

Arukwe disagreed with the common idea that acting is just about memorising lines. He believes there’s much more to it.

“Acting isn’t really about the lines, but about how you perform in a natural way that makes people question if you’re acting or not,” he said.

Uzor Arukwe is a star in Nollywood who’s been impressing audiences for years. He first appeared on screen in the 2014 film “Unspoken Truth.” His big break came in 2019 with the movie “Code Wilo,” where he played Sergeant Tutu.

Since then, Uzor has racked up credits in a variety of Nollywood films, including “In Line,” “Sugar Rush,” “The Set Up,” “Hire a Woman,” “Kpali,” “Chief Daddy 2: Going for Broke,” and “A Tribe Called Judah.” He’s definitely an actor to watch!

Check out more updates here.

ENTERTAINMENT

“Nigerian Idol” Season 9 Heats Up With Top 10 Live Performances

Published

2 days ago

May 27, 2024

Reporter

Nigerian Idol Season 9: Top 10 Live Performances | fab.ng

Nigerian Idol season 9 got even hotter yesterday! The remaining contestants battled it out on stage with live performances.

Remember the judges’ tough call last week? Lammy and Japh Kenti were tied for the final spot in the Top 10. Well, Lammy pulled ahead and joined the other nine singers who advanced.

Now, the competition is heating up with the official Top 10! Jennifer Ugomu, David Garland, Chima, Mira Clear, Gracia, Stevie, Chioma, Lammy, Lady Ruth, and Maio all took the stage.

They sang a mix of everything, from Harry Styles’ “Falling” to powerful hits like “Never Enough” and “A Million Dreams” from The Greatest Showman.

The crowd went wild for their amazing vocals and stage presence! You can see all the performances yourself below. Don’t forget to vote for your favourite singer to keep them in the running!

1. Jennifer Ugomu

Jennifer absolutely stole the show! She belted out a powerful performance of Andra Day’s inspiring song “Rise Up,” a song that was nominated for a Grammy and is all about hope. Her vocals were incredible!

2. David Garland

David Garland turned up the heat with his performance. He took a surprising turn towards pop music and completely wowed the judges with his own powerful version of Harry Styles’ song “Falling.” It was an impressive and unexpected choice that left everyone speechless!

3. Chima

It was Chima’s night to shine! He took the stage and showed off his amazing vocal range with a soulful performance of Teddy Swims’ hit song “Lose Control.” This chart-topping song is a favourite online, and Chima absolutely nailed it!

4. Mira Clear

Mira Clear proved she’s a true songbird with her performance! She focused on every technical detail to deliver a powerful and controlled version of Sia’s inspirational song “Unstoppable.” It was a show-stopping performance that left everyone wanting more.

5. Gracia

Gracia brought down the house with her powerful vocals! She belted out an amazing cover of David Guetta and Sia’s hit song “Titanium,” a real dance floor banger from 2011. Her performance was energetic and unforgettable!

6. Stevie

Stevie delivered a beautiful performance! He showcased his smooth vocals, perfectly blending them with the gentle piano melody of “A Million Dreams” from The Greatest Showman. It was a sweet and touching rendition of the song.

7. Chioma

Chioma stunned the audience with her breathtaking performance of “Never Enough” from The Greatest Showman. The song is a beautiful ballad, and Chioma wasn’t afraid to be vulnerable in her delivery. This raw emotion made her performance even more powerful and left everyone in awe.

8. Lammy

Everyone considers John Legend’s “All of Me” a must-have for any wedding playlist. It’s become a classic love song for couples everywhere.

On Nigerian Idols, Lammy delivered a show-stopping performance of the song, pouring his heart out with so much emotion that it captivated the audience.

9. Lady Ruth

Lady Ruth took on a huge challenge with her performance! She tackled Beyoncé’s “Drunk in Love,” a song known for its high notes, powerful runs, and unique vocals.

Lady Ruth showed off her amazing technique as she hit all the right notes, from the high belts to the breathy whispers. It was a show-stopping performance!

10. Maio

Maio’s song choice was a bit different! He performed “Ojuelegba” by Wizkid. It’s a chill summer vibe kind of song, and Maio knew it was all about capturing the smooth, warm tone of the original.

He focused on staying perfectly on key and delivering a relaxed performance that had the audience swaying along. Even though there weren’t any high notes to hit, it was still a successful and memorable performance!

Get more updates here.

Don’t forget to vote for your Nigerian Idol season 9 favourite performances here.

ENTERTAINMENT

AY Makun Says Feminism Has “Maliciously Placed Broken Men On A Dead-On-Arrival List”

Published

2 days ago

May 27, 2024

Reporter

AY Makun: See what he says about says feminism | fab.ng

Popular Nigerian comedian AY Makun is facing mixed reactions online over his recent comments about feminism. In a post on his social media account (platform not specified) on May 26, 2024, Makun suggested that feminism makes it difficult for men to speak out about negative experiences in their relationships. This has sparked debate among social media users.

His post read,

“The feminism mechanism in the subconsciousness of most women against men who gathered the courage to speak up on the things they too go through in their relationships, has maliciously placed broken men on a dead-on-arrival list in modern day society. Women should also remember that they have friends, brothers, fathers, cousins, and uncles who are going through a lot in the hands of their gender.”

The feminism mechanism in the subconsciousness of most women against men who gathered the courage to speak up on the things they too go through in their relationships, has maliciously placed broken men on a dead on arrival list in modern day society.

Women should also remember…

— AY COMEDIAN (@AYCOMEDIAN) May 26, 2024

This post by AY Makun caused a stir online, with social media users (platform not specified) offering a range of opinions. Some people strongly criticised his views, while others were confused by his statement. There were also those who agreed with his perspective on feminism.

An X user said to him, “Phewwww! What’s with the outrage? If you have personal matters, don’t drag all women along with your problems abeg.”

“What in the Chatgpt is this Tweet? So many words and zero message passed,” read another user’s comment.

Another user said, ‘‘A lot was spoken, nothing was said.”

“It’s infuriating to blame feminism for men’s struggles. Everyone deserves support and empathy, regardless of gender. Stop vilifying women and start addressing the real issues that might have broken your marriage,” said an outraged commenter.

A commenter who agreed with Makun said, “It’s selective Feminism for them . When it’s their family and friends, they cry foul but when not it’s fair.”

“They always see women as victims while neglecting the men most times, which is not equitable,” said another.

Get more entertainment news here.