There’s no question Jill Scott is a talented woman. A gifted singer and fantastic actress, Scott is an embodiment of the new aged Talented Tenth. Now, Scott is creating a pathway for Black creative talent. Her charity, Blues Babe Foundation, has teamed up with Hallmark’s Mahogany branch to grant two African-American students with creative writing ambitions two $10,000 scholarships.
“To be able to give inner-city students the opportunity to receive a scholarship and pursue a career in writing is phenomenal,” Scott said in a statement. “My love and passion for writing is reflected in my music and my poetry and I am sincerely grateful that Mahogany decided to partner with the Blues Babe Foundation to help nurture young creative minds.”
To be eligible, the applicant must be a full-time undergraduate student pursuing a degree in creative writing at an accredited four year college or university. The award winners will have an opportunity to attend a three day writer’s workshop at Hallmark’s headquarters in Kansas City, Missouri during the spring or summer of 2016.
“We’re excited to partner with Ms. Scott’s Blues Babe Foundation,” said Tara Frank, vice president of multicultural strategy for Hallmark Cards. “We hope that our shared vision leads to rewarding and enriching opportunities for college-bound students.”
These are harsh economic times even for those who graduate college, but Scott is another example an entertainer reaching back and sowing into the next generation. This past August, Nelly created the Michael Brown scholarship, adding to his other philanthropic initiatives, as he’s been sending Black children to college for the last ten years through various programs.
In addition to allowing single mothers to live in his childhood home rent free for two years, J. Cole attended a young woman’s graduation and paid her college tuition. From high profile entertainers to elite athletes like LeBron James and Larry Fitzgerald, to former pros like Warrick Dunn, there are copious numbers of philanthropic celebrities who don’t receive any credit and publicity.
Like the aforementioned athletes and entertainers, Scott is demonstrating her passion and connection to the community.
The deadline to apply for the scholarship is Friday, October 30. Visit scholarsapply.org/mahogany/.
