Big Sean Partners Up to Surprise a Young Rapper with Mentorship

McDonald’s has partnered with award-winning rapper, singer and songwriter Big Sean to serve as the second mentor in the newly-launched McDonald’s Black & Positively Golden Mentors program. This virtual content series is a continuation of the company’s increased focus on serving up bright futures by providing opportunities for education and skills in the communities it serves. Starting today, people can tune in to @wearegolden on IGTV to watch Big Sean share tips and wisdom with Michigan-native Nyla Lewis during an exclusive mentoring session.

Mentorship is near and dear to Detroit-native Big Sean who partnered with McDonald’s Black & Positively Golden movement through his Sean Anderson Foundation. His foundation is dedicated to the education, health, safety and well-being of youth in underserved communities across the country, which aligns with McDonald’s commitment to feeding and fostering community.

“Mentorship can be key to success,” said Big Sean, who attributes mentorship as having a role in his success. “I definitely benefitted from guidance as a young adult and aspiring artist, so it’s an honor to partner with McDonald’s to pay it forward as a Black & Positively Golden mentor who is helping another artist navigate her music career.”

During Big Sean and 19-year-old Nyla’s mentoring session, the two discuss their commonalities as Michigan natives, their musical inspirations, and the Grammy-nominated rapper shares advice on navigating the music industry. During the session, Nyla was also surprised with a computer decked out with professional music editing software, and gifted another mentor session with Roc Nation digital, marketing and artist management representatives, courtesy of Big Sean, McDonald’s and its franchisees.

“Big Sean is a huge inspiration, and I appreciate him taking the time to mentor me,” said Nyla. “I began my music career in elementary school and always dreamed of connecting with a major artist like him. This is the surprise and gift of a lifetime that has put me closer to living my dream. I appreciate McDonald’s for making it happen.”

McDonald’s Black & Positively Golden Mentors is an extension of the company’s focus on elevating the next generation of leaders. Over the summer, McDonald’s and its franchisees announced a $500,000 scholarship fund for HBCU students in partnership with Thurgood Marshall College Fund. Since then, 34 HBCU students have received $15,000 scholarships, and two students have received $10,000 each in seed capital to help fund their businesses through the McDonald’s and Essence Girls United “Making Moves Now” Virtual pitch competition.

“Understanding that mentorship can lead to leadership, McDonald’s and our franchisees are proud to give young people access to industry resources and insights through the Black & Positively Golden Mentors program,” said Margaret “Marty” Gillis, a New Jersey McDonald’s franchisee and national diversity marketing committee lead. “We are excited to connect these talented changemakers to people they admire and, in the process, create masterclasses from which others can benefit.”

The McDonald’s Black & Positively Golden Mentors program will continue in 2021. Gospel music vocalist and entrepreneur Kierra Sheard, journalist and activist Jamilah Lemieux, and professional race car driver Bubba Wallace are among the mentors who will be featured next year.

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