Xehara Pledger, a rising senior at Westlake High School, has gained the confidence to pursue a career in film and entertainment thanks to a local nonprofit.
Pledger has been a part of Usher’s New Look program for three years. The organization was founded by veteran R&B singer Usher in 1999. It aims to empower and transform the lives of under-resourced youth by preparing them to be the next generation of leaders.
On Tuesday’s edition of “Closer Look,” Pledger, a 2023 Atlanta Disruptivator of the Year Awardee, told show host Rose Scott that she credits the organization and its leaders with providing her with tools and resources to identify her spark, while building skills in service, leadership and public speaking.
“I took my interest in film, and I researched and found that I really want to be a production manager in film, so Usher’s New Look really helped me find, like, my spark and what it is I really like to do,” explained Pledger.
During the conversation, Pledger was joined by Careshia Moore, the president and CEO of Usher’s New Look. The pair also talked about the nonprofit’s upcoming Disruptivator Summit, which starts on Wednesday.
