The 9th Annual Shyne Awards, which recently took place at the August Wilson Center, was a big success as youth throughout the Pittsburgh area were awarded for their outstanding talent.
The ceremony awarded a number of youth in the categories of academics, arts, community service, service in ministry, entrepreneurship, science, young adult group and overcoming obstacles. Along with plaques, award recipients received $2,250 in scholarships provided by Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield.
The Shyne Awards Foundation is a non-profit organization whose mission is to create public platforms to recognize the positive achievements of youth between the ages of 13-19. With its mission at the core of what they do, The Foundation also offers educational programs and events to assure the personal, social and academic attainment of all youth.The Shyne Awards is the foundation’s signature event.
The founders of The Shyne Awards are Darnell Drewery and Orlana Darkins Drewery. Kiya Tomlin, fashion designer and wife of Steelers’ head coach Mike Tomlin, served as the evening’s host.
“It was a joy to attend the Shyne Awards this year and as young people of our region were honored. Congratulations to all of the awardees,” attendee Shane Austin said.
“(I) enjoyed working the Shyne Awards! It’s great to see kids smile,” Red Carpet Media Personality Michelyn Hood Tinor said.
Darkins Drewery said, “The Shyne Awards is a premier awards ceremony that celebrates the positive achievements of young adults.”
Local singer/songwriter Gabby Barrett performed during the evening as well as Pittsburgh singer and former Shyne Award winner Loren Knight and the K-Theater Dance Complex students.
Sharon Abram, mother of a 2016 Shyne award recipient said, “I’m so proud of my son, Shailen Abram. This award is such an honor to win and he deserves it.”
The philosophy of the Shyne Foundation is that if given the proper tools, resources, and modeled guidance, all youth can be successful in any and all areas of their interest or purpose, in spite of their background or current environment.
“We do things like this to see all youth realize their purpose and reach their destiny,” said Darkins Drewery.
“The Shyne Awards would like to thank all the business sponsors including Highmark Health, Eat N’ Park, Dollar Bank, WAMO 100, Gateway Health, and Mount Ararat Baptist Church for contributing to the evening, and making it a night to remember,” according to a statement from the foundation.
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