by Shawn Nowlin
Imagine a site where there’s music, food, games and community camaraderie at almost picture-perfect temperatures. Because of the Humble Hustle Company INC., a non-profit known for its commitment to the community, such a scene occurred June 1 at Wasena in southwest as part of a 3-day weekend.
Founded by Xavier Duckett, Humble Hustle “empowers inner-city youth throughout Roanoke and the surrounding area by providing access and exposure to outdoor recreation, entrepreneurial education along with community-centric leadership development opportunities.”
A block party at the Collective on 11th Street in northwest on May 31 kicked off ‘Not Your Average Weekend,’ an affiliate of Humble Hustle created to serve as a massive fundraiser so the necessary resources can be raised to further its mission. Featuring DJs from Atlanta, Friday’s party fused melodies of afro jazz, afro house and more.
The theme for Saturday’s electrifying music festival was “Lost in the Flowers.” In addition to a vibrant beer garden, there was also a wine-tasting station and expanded performances, among other attractions. More than a dozen vendors were scattered across the park. Many attendees enjoyed the performances from the comfort of their lawn chairs and blankets.
A Rhythm and Brews event at the Golden Cactus concluded the weekend fundraiser on Sunday. A modern, southern cuisine was provided by the Food Hut.
Tickets were $20, and Duckett says all of the proceeds will support programs created specifically to empower youth like Roanoke student Bryson Mackey.
Duckett wore many hats during the weekend fundraiser – event organizer, community liaison and trash cleaner, just to name a few. To help make sure things ran smoothly, he relied heavily on those around him. “An event of this magnitude doesn’t happen without a true team effort. It was important to us that every attendee felt a sense of community,” Duckett said.
After seeing so many familiar faces over the weekend, John Coleman said his experience felt more like a class reunion. “Keeping in touch with old high school friends through social media is cool, but there is nothing like being there in person to experience the laughs and stories,” he said.
In many spaces, acceptance is predicated on several trivial things. With Humble Hustle, all are welcome to be part of the vibe.
Mercury Flames, a member of the LBGTQ community, says that the weekend festivities surpassed expectations. “Not having to explain how I look and dress to people was such a beautiful feeling. Music is one thing that unites all of us. I hope this event continues in the future,” she said.
