This swoon-worthy singer wants to raise money and awareness for the Special Olympics, mentor teens with a dream, and dress like David Beckham. Read on to find out what else he has in store.
How did you originally get involved with the Acuvue 1-Day contest?
“About two years ago, they reached out to me about working with them on this project. It made sense because I wear contacts and I also love the idea of being able to help somebody and mentor them through a dream they have. For me, my 1-Day dream was always to do something with the Special Olympics.”
Did you have a vision when you were younger of your 1-Day and has that changed over time?
“It has changed over time. I have a bigger, broader spectrum of what I can do. At first, it was talking with my friends about a fun run for the Special Olympics. And we wanted everyone to get together and run and raise money for the Special Olympics. It went from about six hundred people to thousands. I thought it was crazy that this small idea can actually happen—what else can we do?”
“A few years later, I went in front of Congress. Not every state has the Special Olympics. The fact that I could walk in with camera crews, and these heads of states are obviously not going to just say no, it was encouraging and exciting! Taking it full circle and being able to encourage someone else was a dream come true.”
What made you chose the Special Olympics as your charity?
“I would get on stage and perform in front of different crowds around the world and see—whether they were Special Olympics athletes or teens affected with intellectual disabilities—the joy that people had at my concerts. I had to do something for them because they were bringing me such joy.”
Do you have any advice for teens that want to set long term goals and tips for achieving those goals?
“I know it sounds clichéd, but practice makes perfect. With music and acting, you can never just be the best. You always have to challenge yourself, and, growing up in a band with brothers, we pushed each other to make better music and to focus. On the charitable side, it’s about coming up with bigger and newer ideas. It’s not always about money, it’s about community and getting people involved.”
How do you recommend someone start the ball rolling if they feel inspired to help others?
“Get your family and friends involved. They’re the ones that are going to support you the most. They’re the ones that’ll be there no matter what. Don’t be afraid of asking people around you because you never know—at least ask.”
What are some qualities that you think make someone a good mentor?
“My father is my mentor and a friend. As an adult, from father to friend, he’s encouraging no matter what. As a mentee, learning to take creative and constructive criticism is important. You understand what you have to do to further your career and ideas. You have to be able to listen.”
How would you describe your personal style?
“I like colors—they’re really fun. Compared to my brothers, I’m more of a risk taker when it comes to clothes.”
Are there any celebrities past or present that have influenced your look or inspired your look?
“I always look at artists or other musicians or actors. I love athletes like David Beckham and Dwyane Wade and how they wear clothes. They dress up, look really sharp, and have a sense of style. They aren’t just athletes that wear big suits. I’ve always observed Mick Jagger and he’s always worn cool clothes and gotten away with it.”
How would you describe your personal style?
“There’s this thing called the Peanut. It’s a beard trimmer and it’s really good. It’s really phat because I wake up, use it, and go. It’s safe!”
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