Celebrating HBCU Talent and Changemakers: Doritos® SOLID BLACK Donates $160,000 to Empower Next Generation

STAFF WRITER

PepsiCo Joins Forces with Historically Black Colleges and Universities at the 2023 Pepsi National Battle of The Bands, Ahead of the Expansive PepsiCo HBCU Tour

PURCHASE, N.Y. – The intersection of musical brilliance and social transformation takes center stage as PepsiCo proudly returns to the 2023 Pepsi National Battle of The Bands. This year’s event not only commemorates the extraordinary talent within Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) marching bands but also champions the essence of HBCU culture. Doritos® SOLID BLACK, in collaboration with PepsiCo, steps forward to announce a game-changing $160,000 donation, spotlighting the brilliance of HBCU musicians and the remarkable impact of student changemakers.

Empowering the Future through Music and Leadership

Doritos® SOLID BLACK’s commitment to HBCUs goes beyond the surface. In honor of the vibrant energy and unapologetic passion exhibited by HBCU marching bands, a groundbreaking $160,000 donation will be unveiled. This gesture underscores Doritos SOLID BLACK’s broader mission to support and uplift HBCUs. Notably, a portion of these funds will be directed towards individual student support, aligning with Doritos SOLID BLACK’s initiative to spotlight Black Changemakers who are driving positive change within their communities.

From the ranks of section leaders to dance captains, outstanding students nominated by their respective band directors for their leadership acumen will be honored as honorary changemakers. These exceptional individuals will receive recognition on the field during the 2023 Pepsi National Battle of the Bands show in Houston, Texas.

Honoring the Past, Empowering the Present

The stage is set for a celebration of accomplishment and potential. Houston’s own community activist and celebrated figure, DJ Mr. Rogers, who himself is a Doritos SOLID BLACK Changemaker alumnus, expresses his enthusiasm: “As a fellow HBCU alum and previous Doritos SOLID BLACK Changemaker, I’m thrilled to welcome these new honorary changemakers. The hustle, drive, and leadership that shape a changemaker can start at any age, and I hope each of these students feels inspired and encouraged to continue to be their best, boldest self.” DJ Mr. Rogers will be standing shoulder-to-shoulder with these students at the 50-yard-line, shining a spotlight on their achievements.

To stoke the fires of inspiration ahead of the main event, the Doritos SOLID BLACK Changemaker Lounge will be an on-site haven. This lounge will not only introduce the 2023 Changemakers but will also foster an environment of mentorship, recruitment, and nurturing of the next generation of leaders.

Catalysts of Change: PepsiCo’s Commitment

Kent Mon