The I AM WGI: Emerging Voices Award is a community-funded monetary award that provides an opportunity for outstanding minority performers with significant financial needs to reach their highest potential. The Award is geared toward those individuals who show promise to be a beacon for positive change in their communities and WGI.
The I AM WGI: Emerging Voices Award strives to reduce financial barriers for historically underrepresented performers with high artistic and leadership promise from the African American, American Indian/Alaska Native, Asian Pacific Islander, and Hispanic American populations.
The funds from the Award will go towards select endeavors on behalf of the recipient which may include but are not limited to: Secondary Education, Vocational Training, Membership Tuition or other projects deemed appropriate by the Award Committee as detailed in the recipient’s application.
Funding for this Award will come directly from leaders, families, educators, supporters and fans of WGI who all share a vested interest in supporting highly qualified individuals from historically underrepresented populations.
2024 Emerging Voices Award Recipients
Olivia Starnes
Sade Taylor
Past Emerging Voices Award Recipients
Kennedy Riles
Jonathan Marrero
James Salmond
Luz Riviera
Chris Washington
Recipient Responsibilities and Opportunities
Ambassadorship
The recipients will participate in projects and social outreach as ambassadors for the I AM WGI campaign.
Social Service
The recipients will create opportunities to engage in volunteerism in their community.
Media
The recipients will play a key role in telling their story and the impact of this Award in their lives through contributions for use on the many different media channels WGI uses to tell its stories.
Mentorship
The recipients will have mentorship opportunities facilitated by the WGI Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee.
Outreach
The participant will use their platform to connect with and engage their peers and the underrepresented.
Personal Growth
Funds can be awarded for furthering the recipient’s education or vocational training beyond high school. Recipients will also be enrolled in the newly formed Future Leaders Program.
Candidate Eligibility
Candidates must be:
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- A contracted member of a WGI Ensemble from the United States or a member of an Ensemble affiliated with an official WGI Circuit Partner.
- Candidates must be at least 18 years of age when they submit their application.
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Application Requirements
Application + Video
Online Application with basic information, eligibility requirements, a high quality headshot (such as a yearbook photo), along with a short (<1 minute) video detailing why the candidate is applying and the purpose for which the funds are being sought.
Recommendation
Candidates must also submit 1 letter of recommendation written on their behalf along with a one page resume and an essay on their background, qualifications, and interest in this Award.
Interview
Final candidates virtual interview with the Award Committee.
