Today, BET (DStv channel 129) unveiled hip-hop superstar and global humanitarian Akon as the recipient of the 2016 Global Good Award at the “BET Awards”. The second annual Global Good Award is presented as a part of the “BET Awards” and honours individuals championing endeavours which positively impact change and heighten awareness in different parts of the world. A Grammy- and BET Award-nominated, two-time multi-platinum musical artist, producer, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, Akon holds a place in industry history as one of music’s most influential voices and is this year’s 2016 Global Good Award honouree.
Born in America to Senegalese parents, Akon developed a love for Senegal and deep desire to help the nation’s youth. In 2007, he launched the Konfidence Foundation, dedicated to providing Senegalese youth with educational resources and access to health services. In 2014, Akon co-founded “Akon Lighting Africa”, which currently brings solar-powered electricity to the homes of over 600 million people in more than 11 countries in rural Africa. He also helped launch the Solar Academy in Bamako, Mali, where engineers will be taught how to develop solar power, and has expanded his impact beyond Africa by teaming up with government officials in several Latin American countries, including Brazil, to bring electricity to needy homes.
The Global Good Award will be presented by Eva Marcille and Jidenna as a part of the “BET Awards.”
Hosted by Anthony Anderson and Tracee Ellis Ross, the “BET Awards” will include performances by Usher, Future, Bryson Tiller, Alicia Keys and Maxwell with special performances in honour of the late pop icon Prince by Sheila E., Janelle Monae, D’Angelo, The Roots and more. The star power continues as Gabrielle Union, Nate Parker, DJ Khaled and many others will take the stage as presenters during the 16th anniversary of the annual highly-anticipated televised event.
The BET Awards premieres on BET (DStv channel 129) on Tuesday 28 June at 19:00 CAT.
Russian Bear is the official South Africa sponsor of the BET Awards 2016.
For more information on the BET Awards, visit www.betafrica.tv, like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/BETinAfrica, or join the conversation about the channel on Twitter and Instagram @BET_Africa using the hashtag #BETAwards16.
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