YVAs: The Hype Crew experience
Biko Kennedy and Renee Whitelocke, Youthlink Writers

The birth of the Hype Crew was practically simultaneous with the inception of the Youth View Awards. Many teens see themselves as 'young, hot and hype', but it takes much more than encouraging words from family and immediate friends and cracking a few jokes here and there to become part of the Hype Crew. We all know that the crew helps to make the YVAs what it is, so here's what some of its members have to say about their past YVAs experience.

What is it like being a Hype Crew member?

Sean Harris

Being a Hype Crew member has been a huge privilege. Branding 'An Elegant Affairs', the Youth View Awards and 'On The Verge' have been some of my main duties in the Hype Crew. We let persons get a feel of our energy for every promotion that we participate in. Getting accepted around September was very overwhelming and exciting, because I had always heard how great an experience it was to be part of this promotional group.

Rodje Malcolm

Being in the YVAs' Hype Crew is like always having a backstage pass to all things young, hot and hype as we watch the YVAs nation take Jamaica by storm in 2012. Currently, my role in the Hype Crew is specifically to manage the Twitter and Facebook accounts for the Youth View Awards, as well as 'On The Verge', our awesome talent competition. I was introduced to the Hype Crew through my friends, who were also part of it.

Reminisce a bit on your fondest memory of the Youth View Awards, and what is it about this memory that makes it stand out.

Nickeisha Hall

My first YVAs was the fourth staging, and I was so excited because I love entertainment and I was so fascinated with how they advertised the awards. It was like no other so I couldn't miss it! I met the New Boyz because of this show and that was very cool!

Shauna Kaye McLeod

My fondest memory of the YVAs was when Vybz Kartel performed at the fourth one ... . This memory stands out as it was a complete surprise to me, and it has been my biggest reaction to a performance ever! It was also the first time I'd seen Vybz Kartel perform live!

Based on the current success of the YVAs, what are your predictions for the 10th staging of the event?

Issia Thelwell

Honestly, I can't express my predictions in words. There's an ambiance about the YVAs that makes you overwhelmed with excitement to the point where you are left speechless. With the genius mind of Aunty Karen and the wonderful sponsors on board, there's no doubt that it'll capture every essence of Jamaican culture in the most innovative way possible. It will captivate the attention of the youth demographic and will certainly be internationally known!

Chadeh Hutchinson Hines:

For the 10th staging of the event, which would be another milestone, I know it will be much bigger and better than it is now, as it can only continue to grow. I see it possibly being televised live in the entire Caribbean region. No doubt, by then it will be the most anticipated event of the year, and one that the entire Jamaica will be a part of as brand YVAs grows.