2010 Seagram’s Gin Pursuit of Excellence Graduation

The Hyatt Regency in Atlanta was bustling with activity as family and friends of graduates of Seagram’s Gin’s Pursuit of Excellence Job Training Institute prepared for the commencement ceremony. The job training and employment initiative is an undertaking of Seagram’s and the Atlanta Workforce Development Agency to help unemployment issues in the African American community. Ten promising young men ranging in age from 25–32, were rewarded with certifications of achievement for their hard work and dedication, after completing an intense four week training course.  

“I want a 100 percent success rate, or I will feel like I wasted my time — and time is the only thing you can’t get back” declared comedian and actor Anthony Anderson while addressing the graduates. He cautioned them that it won’t always be easy, but perseverance and persistence will take them a long way.

“First impressions are really big. … It doesn’t matter what you have on, people are going to look at your grooming”  advised disc jockey Ryan Cameron who also attended the commencement exercises and offered encouragement to the graduates. Ryan talked to the audience about how he too, had gotten a late start in his career, but was still able to attain success.

With the help of Seagram’s Gin and the Atlanta Workforce Development Agency, the future for these aspiring 10 is looking quite bright. –christian johnson