The Boys & Girls Clubs of Newport County today announced that teen member Nate Powers will take the stage and perform at the Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s 117th annual national conference this May.
Nate, a senior at the Met School in Newport, will showcase his musical talents to 2,500 attendees and VIPs in Orlando, Florida. Past years’ VIPs have included Denzel Washington, Magic Johnson, Ruth Carter, and Maia Chaka.
BGCA selected Nate and 22 other members from all over the country to perform at this year’s gathering. Applicants could submit an audition using any form of artistic performance, including but not limited to spoken word, vocal solos and groups, instrumental and dance.
Nate chose a rendition of “One Man Can Change the World” by Big Sean and “Easy” by the Commodores, in which he demonstrated his music arrangement and keyboard talents. “This rendition… is special to me because I, Nate Powers, truly believe it only takes one moment, one greeting, one voice to change someone’s day or life,” Nate wrote on his application. “In the midst of life’s most turbulent ups and downs, I can always rely on playing and creating music to help me process, and truly communicate with the sounds that I produce.”
Held to empower, refuel and refocus Boys & Girls Clubs staff and stakeholders in its mission to support today’s young people, the conference will inspire and energize Club leaders through training sessions, powerful speeches, an alumni induction, and the selected youth performances.
Marlin DaCruz, a Club director who oversees the Club’s music program, knows the breadth and depth of Nate’s musical gift. “Nate is an extraordinary, gifted musician,” stated Mr. DaCruz. “Besides being a self-taught pianist and vocalist, he has been learning to record, produce and master his own original music. Nate is very passionate with his music, and I enjoy seeing him progress here at the Club.”
In preparation for his performances at the conference, Nate will have the opportunity to participate in a series of virtual coaching sessions with vocal, movement, and performance coaches. “We are so proud of Nate and look forward to watching him perform at the BGCA conference,” said BGCNC Executive Director Joe Pratt. “Under the guidance of our experienced staff like Marlin, our members have many opportunities to learn, grow and experience success.”
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Newport County was founded in 1956 to provide a safe and positive environment for youth to learn and grow. The Club focuses on three core areas – Academic Success, Healthy Lifestyles, and Character & Leadership Development – utilizing evidence-informed and evidence-based programs.