MISSOURI CITY – Essence Communications president Michelle Ebanks and the “Coca-Cola Pay It Forward” program gives Missouri City native Blake Newby a refreshing opportunity for a business apprenticeship experience.
The world’s most recognized brand celebrates future generations of African-American leaders by awarding teens unique apprenticeship experiences this summer with some of today’s leading celebrity history makers – Grammy Award-winner and philanthropist Ne-Yo, fashion designer Tracy Reese and Ebanks. “Coca-Cola Pay It Forward” apprenticeships focus on the following areas: business (Ebanks), fashion (Reese), music/entertainment and community/philanthropy (Ne-Yo).
A student at Ridge Point High School, Newby spent last week in New York City being mentored by and shadowing business mogul Ebanks and her team. She is the daughter of Kirstin and Bruce Newby.
“‘Coca-Cola always stands ready to help advance the next generation,” said Kimberly Paige, assistant vice president, African American Marketing, Coca-Cola North America. “We encourage our teens and their parents to take advantage of every opportunity possible to achieve educational and professional goals. Participating in the ‘Pay It Forward’ apprenticeship experience will pave the way for these teens in their future career endeavors.”
“One Solution is proud to partner with Coca-Cola to champion the development of Black youth through Pay It Forward,” remarked Keith Bowen, Chief Revenue Officer, TV One. “The partnership reflects our interest in leveraging corporate partnerships in order to advance a goal important to our community and our audience.”
Newby won the exclusive opportunity by being nominated for the “Coca-Cola Pay It Forward” contest held on MyCokeRewards.com. Her essay was chosen from among hundreds of teens nationwide, aged 16-19, who entered the competition. “I’m really appreciated the opportunity I had to work with Michelle Ebanks in New York City,” said Newby. “I’m grateful to Coca-Cola for giving me this up close and personal glimpse into the running of a media empire. I always aspire to be the best and I am sure what I learned here will last a lifetime.”