2019 Shortlist
Best in Engagement for Good
LeBron James has always considered himself “just a kid from Akron.” Growing a social media following of a combined 91.3M with 272.3M engagements across Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram in 2018, the superstar uses his platform primarily to educate and inspire. Even when LeBron is in “Zero Dark Thirty-23 Mode” (he ditches social media for the playoffs), he’s found purposeful ways to utilize his massive platform for good.
Last year during the NBA Playoffs he passed over his Instagram account (and the 40M+ followers that came with it) to a different teenager or young adult each day to let them share their passions, work, and wisdom with the world. His endorsement legitimizes serious issues and enables young people to join the conversation. In 2018, he opened the I Promise School, a public school in Akron that targets at-risk children who—if lucky enough to gain enrollment—get free bikes, meals, and college tuition. It’s acts like these that solidify him as more than just one of the greatest athletes of our time—but more importantly, a real-life superhero.
PROUD ‼️‼️‼️ is an understatement. Kids you are smart, amazing, talented, and nothing short of INSPIRATIONAL! Teachers & all the staff ❤️❤️ ya’ll are the right ones, the real ones on this journey changing lives & numbers don’t lie 🤷🏾♂️ Let’s keep GROWING 💪🏾 @ipromiseschool 🚀 pic.twitter.com/fQcmcNRBKQ
— LeBron James (@KingJames) April 12, 2019