*(Compton, CA) – Thousands of residents of Compton and surrounding communities gathered at Compton College. Divine Media Group, in partnership with the Mayor’s Office, presented the inaugural Compton Fest 2024, on Saturday, August 24, from 12-6 pm, at Compton College, led by President and CEO Keith Curry, 1111 E. Artesia Blvd., in Compton.
Compton Mayor Emma Sharif, Councilmembers, Jonathan Bowers, (District 3), and Lillie Darden (District 4) Assemblyman Mike Gipson (CA. 65th Assembly District), and Compton College Board Member Juanita Doplemore were also in attendance for the Compton Fest.
Compton Fest offered an array of activities for the entire family to enjoy, including music, food community resources, and pop-up activations. This was a day for family, community, health and prosperity.
“Restoring The Pride” is the theme of the inaugural event, which is set to shine the spotlight on local talent, artists, entrepreneurs, future change makers, and notable figures that are restoring the pride of Compton.
The day was exciting, as attendees engaged and enjoyed technology demonstrations, including workshops and activations by Google’s code Next Iniatives, facilitating STEM labs, and interesting and informative panel discussions led by industry mavens in STEM, sports, film, TV, and music.
The Doctor Dapper served as emcee, with DJ Breezy Ali working the ones and twos, playing eclectic, soulful sounds and rhythms of the summer.
The program got underway with the Compton Divas Drill Team and Drummers of Compton to the delight of all in attendance.
Francis Wright was the first to come out to perform. He performed “I Want to Be Your Man” and announced that his new EP will drop on September 1st.
Cyny Cyn was up next as she performed “Be Ours,” “Scar Pack,” and “Baby Bad” with her brother Zavier.
The stage was set for the first panel, out of This World STEM and Technology Panel, presented by Google Code Next, NASA, and Charles R. Drew University. The panel moderated by Ellie Andrews spoke about their upbringings and the various opportunities in the STEM and Technology industry. The panel consisted of Justin Shaifer (NASA), Kia Smith (The Boeing Company), Dr. Rasheed Ivey (Harbor UCLA), Dr. Carmen Sanders Russell (CRDrew), and Anthony Mays (Google). Actress, and singer, Sheryl Lee Ralph made a surprise appearance at Compton Fest 2024. She stopped by to say hello and reminded everyone about the upcoming fourth season of the critically acclaimed Abbott Elementary, premiering on October 9, 2024.
The next dynamic panel Welcome to Wellness: Mental & Physical Health, presented by AIDS Healthcare Foundation and Soluna. The panel moderated by Ron T.Von addressed the importance of a holistic approach to health as one dives into your wellness journey. The panel consisted of Etienne Maurice (Walk Good LA), Bobby Jones Jr. (Growing Up Compton), Jaysyr Berry (Mr. Teen Compton), and Veronica Clanton-Higgins (Compton Wellness Collective).
The final panel Mama I’m on TV…The Business of Film and TV, presented by FX Networks, and moderated by Jillian Hardeman-Webb focused on the many routes to enter the entertainment industry. The panel featured Ty Bristol (FX) and Karus Nelson (Producer).
The stage was cleared for live music performances. Tia P kicked it off with a couple of original tracks, the highlights “Hymm,” and “Green Cadillac.”
BrVndon P, Grammy-nominated producer, and artist came up next to perform “Back to My Roots,” “No Plan B,” and a remix of “It’s Your Birthday” to name a few.
Kaien Cruz is an emerging South African artist. She thrilled the crowd with several original tracks “You Can Tell No One,” “Shells and Hoes,” “I Lay,” and “Rumor.”
Jayson Cash followed by IAMCOMPTON had the large, diverse, multicultural crowd vibing doing their respective performances.
Compton Fest honored several community organizations making a difference in the lives of the community. The Compton honorees were Alma Farms, Divas & Drummers of Compton, Compton Country Club Initiative, and Color Compton.
Compton Fest honored the life and legacy of several Compton natives. Six-time NBA All-Star DeMar DeRozan was presented with the Icon Award. Fuzzy West was presented with the Impact Award and Hip-Hop icon YoYo, was presented with the Legend Award. Ahjourney performed during the presentation, followed by an electrifying performance by YoYo!
I left before the special guest performance by Jon B to close out the inaugural Compton Fest on a rousing note.
ImpactLA 5th#KobeDay Backpack Giveaway was on site to give out a record number of backpacks, and school supplies to help students prepare for returning to school in the Fall.
Compton Fest featured a Kids Zone presented by Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Los Angeles. Google Code Next STEM Labs Interactive Workshops presented by National Musician’s Collective and Artsy Kids. Activations by Compton Country Club Virtual Golf, Plug-in America Drive Experience, and Black Out Night. Wellness Row screens are provided by Charles R. Drew School of Science and Medicine, BEXA Equity Alliance, Touch Black Breast Cancer Alliance, and AIDS Healthcare Foundation.
Compton Fest 2024 is the catalyst that will trailblaze new pathways for premium education, technology, entertainment, and business opportunities offered in the city. This is the ultimate celebration of diversity, innovation, and unity in the Compton community!
Are you amongst the handful of people who haven’t heard about Compton? Don’t fret, the Los Angeles Times have you covered. This article gives a brief overview of the city: history, historic landmarks iconic individuals, and hidden gems in the city. Relax and grab your favorite adult beverage (coffee, tea, soda, gourmet water) as you read this lengthy article! https://www.latimes.com/travel/list/compton-los-angeles-guide-things-to-do.
Ricky Richardson is a Southern California-based writer, music reviewer and photographer. Contact him via: liltampared@netzero.net
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