Global Touring Artist Masego & Newport News Vice Mayor Host Student Outreach Initiative
Newport News Public Schools (NNPS) alumni return to give back to young musicians
Newport News, VA— Today, Grammy-nominated artist Masego joined City of Newport News Vice Mayor Curtis D. Bethany III to host a back-to-school student engagement event to encourage and prepare students for the 2026-2027 academic year.
Both Woodside High School (WHS) and Old Dominion University alumni, the pair partnered with music discovery platform PlusNTrust and instrument retailer Sweetwater to donate thousands of dollars’ worth of school supplies and instruments. The in-kind donations will benefit the WHS Music Department students and Soundscape, a Newport News nonprofit music education program, ahead of the new school year.
“Newport News helped shaped who I am, and I want today’s students to see what has been possible for people who have walked the same streets, attended the same schools, and come from the same community,” said Vice Mayor Bethany. “Through this experience, they connected with an accomplished musician, elected officials, and business leaders who are living examples of what they can achieve. We want our young people to know that their future is not limited by where they come from—but it can be shaped by where they are determined to go.”
During the event, Masego participated in a collaborative music session, performing alongside students and answering their questions about his experiences as a musician and his journey from Newport News to the global stage.
“Arts education is an essential part of preparing our students for success, helping them develop creativity, confidence, discipline and the ability to express themselves in meaningful ways,” said NNPS Superintendent Dr. Michele Mitchell. “We are incredibly grateful to Vice Mayor Bethany and our community partners who recognize the importance of providing students with the tools they need to discover and develop their individual talents. We are proud to work with a community that invests time, money, and resources into our students to elevate their potential.”
The initiative provided Newport News Public Schools students with music supplies, valued at approximately $3,500. As alumni and community leaders continue to give back, initiatives like this demonstrate that the City of Newport News is invested in building a stronger community and empowering the young people who will one day lead it.
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