Men have taken over the pageant world. Nine men will compete in the inaugural Mr. Black OU Scholarship Pageant on April 22 at the Sooner Theatre.
Mr. Black OU is needed around campus, said Nikki Ajeh, pageant coordinator.
“Mr. Black OU is needed to give African-American men an opportunity to display their accomplishments,” said Ajeh, Miss Black Oklahoma USA. “It also gives them a chance to celebrate our culture.”
Whoever wins the title of Mr. Black OU will implement his community service and awareness platform by hosting programs and events throughout the 2010-2011 school year. He will represent the black student voice along with Miss Black OU.
“Mr. Black OU is going to represent a strong black man. He’s going to be a leader not only on OU’s campus, but in the surrounding areas of Oklahoma City as well,” said Kenisha Lloyd, public relations junior, and the current Miss Black OU.
This pageant will enable black men to step up and make an impact on the community, said Willie Hill, pageant contestant.
“I know that my participation in this pageant could help other young men step outside of their box and participate in service projects around the community,” said Hill, English junior.
The pageant’s theme is “Remembering the Time: Celebrating the Legacy of the African-American Male,” and it will consist of a talent portion, athletic wear, formal wear and an on-stage question-and-answer session.
All of the contestants are qualified to be named the first Mr. Black OU, Hill said.
“The competition is pretty tough. It’s anybody’s game,” Hill said.
Ajeh said she hopes the first Mr. Black OU is someone full of dedication, tenacity, leadership abilities and an approachable person.
Lloyd, who is in her second month as Miss Black OU, said she is looking forward to finding her reigning male counterpart.
“This pageant is going to be the perfect opportunity to find that one great black male leader who will lead us to better things for our community,” Lloyd said.
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Flysooner 2 years, 1 month ago
I want to have a mr "white" OU