A new scholarship aimed at lifting up Akron’s next generation of artists and athletes is officially under way.

Akron native, pianist, and three-time Emmy-nominated artist Kofi B. has launched the Elevating Possibility Scholarship, announced during Buchtel Community Learning Center’s 13th Annual Harvest Festival and Student Showcase.

The scholarship will award five $1,000 scholarships to Buchtel High School seniors who excel in the arts or athletics. While the announcement was made at Buchtel, a selection committee working with Akron Public Schools will choose the recipients. There are plans to expand the program to more schools in the future.

“This scholarship is about showing young people that their dreams are not limited,” Kofi B. said.

The launch is also receiving support from fellow Akron native and Cleveland Cavaliers forward Larry Nance Jr., who praised Kofi B.’s passion for empowering youth.

Kofi B. says this is only the beginning, with long-term plans to continue investing in Akron’s young creatives and leaders.