Photo: PepsiCo Beverages North America
Pepsi Stronger Together and Grammy-nominated recording artist, entrepreneur and philanthropist Fat Joe are teaming up, in partnership with Gamesa Cookies, one of Mexico's most beloved consumer food brands and largest manufacturer of cookies, to create a bigger stage for aspiring musicians and artists - by launching their first national scholarship search.
The program, part of PepsiCo's series of grassroots initiatives tailored to local communities, aims to support underserved youth nationwide by inviting students to apply to receive one of four $25,000 scholarships towards an education in music and arts.
Derek Lewis, PepsiCo's Multicultural Business and Equity Development President:
"Across some of the largest cities in the country, Black and Hispanic students under index on access to creative arts education, despite the benefits and opportunities it provides. Addressing the needs of underserved communities is why Pepsi Stronger Together was created and given our brand's rich history and footprint in music and entertainment, this program was a natural fit. We are honored to have the help of leading artists like Fat Joe and Angie Martinez - people that have broken barriers to get to where they are today - as we collectively look to open more doors for multicultural youth who want to pursue an arts education."
Fat Joe:
I'm honored to work with Pepsi Stronger Together to create opportunities for the next generation of multicultural leaders and give them the resources to pursue their dreams in music and arts. As an entertainer with a public platform, I take my responsibility to blaze a trail for the future very seriously. It's important that we empower our youth – especially from underserved communities – so they have the confidence and foundation to reach their full potential."
The program kicks off in New York City on June 12 where Fat Joe will serve as Padrino (Godfather) of the Puerto Rican Day Parade on the Pepsi Stronger Together and Gamesa float. He will be joined by radio legend Angie Martinez, former Bronx borough president Ruben Diaz Jr., and singer Tony Sunshine.
High school seniors nationwide can apply online at PepsiStrongerTogether.com until September 20, 2022. Each of the four cities will also feature a designated site where students can apply in person with the help of on-site staff, starting with Fat Joe's UP NYC store in the Bronx.