There are many underserved areas and communities within the states and outside of the country. There is a lack of consistent access to quality and affordable entertainment. Theaters, arenas, and fields are often in wealthier districts. This leaves communities who need a connection to have a lack of access to live entertainment. The absence in concentration affects the community morale, development, and local pride. Live entertainment brings economic and personal success for community patrons. Residents, family-owned organizations, and local artists and athletes are stakeholders in underserved areas. There is a disconnect in inclusive entertainment. My professional goal is to bridge this gap by building a career that connects communities to sport and entertainment. I aim to create inclusive experiences that uplift and empower those who have historically been excluded from mainstream entertainment access.

 

Through my key insight to push myself, I will seek roles and organizations that challenge me to serve underprivileged communities. This insight drives my commitment to outreach and motivates me to pursue positions that align with my values. Becoming a strategic thinker in the industry, my professional experiences have taught me to move beyond observation and into action. I’ve learned how entertainment can be used strategically to foster community development and pride. I will build a personal brand that reflects my dedication to community engagement. By consistently showing up for underserved areas, I aim to reshape how these communities are perceived, internally and externally. Remember, perception is reality.

 

The first task to accomplish my goal is to assemble a team of individuals. These industry professionals will include marketers, business operations personnel, and event managers. This diverse team of people will ensure all aspects of the event are covered, such as logistics, execution, and outreach. The next step in this process is to select a community. I want to start by focusing on Orangeburg, South Carolina. Orangeburg is full of historical and cultural roots but lacks a consistency in entertainment and sporting events. Community engagement is the third step in this process.  This drives the mission by getting the direct and indirect communities involved in the process and procedure. Phase four includes event planning. This means organizing a concert, sports clinic, or local artist pop-up. This provides immediate connection, value, and insight to the future of community engagement. Promotion and execution are the second to the last step in this process. The implementation of a campaign to bring a live event is the success factor of this goal. The last step is to evaluate. It is important to gain feedback and comments from the outside and inside, These critiques will allow myself to understand the thoughts and opinions of things that went right and wrong throughout the duration of the event life cycle.

 

The project will meet its goals if the purpose is met and executed. The purpose is to bring a live event to an underserved area. Some communities need a push for brand awareness in order to put them on the map for future events in the industry. Consumers will provide input, as well as the team of individuals who made it happen. There are always ways to improve and new ideas to be shared. Criteria for success for this event include attendance numbers, testimonials, social media engagement, and future coverage. There should be a shift from no connection to connection. I love this industry because it brings together people from all different walks of life into one space for a common purpose. I hope to strengthen my understanding of how sport and entertainment can be used as tools for social impact. This experience will build on what I’ve learned through hands-on experiences and classroom learning, and help me refine my leadership style, strategic thinking, and brand identity. It will shape my future career as a community-focused leader in the sport and entertainment industry.