YouTube Graduation Sees Gaga, BTS and Obama Take the Stage
It looks like 2020 has robbed seniors across the world of their graduation ceremonies. And that’s why, YouTube has stepped in with ‘Dear Class of 2020’. With schools and colleges shut down due to the COVID 19 pandemic, living life out on a screen might be the norm for the next few months. So, the company just announced that they will be holding a virtual graduation ceremony. And the talk of the town is that the commencement address will be delivered by former President, Barack Obama.
For all the seniors out there, a peek at the star-studded lineup ought to lift your spirits. From BTS and Lady Gaga to Malala Yousafzai, Zendaya, and Alicia Keys – they’ve recruited quite the star cast.
The festival will feature talks on traditional graduation-day themes mixed in with musical performances. But what’s a graduation ceremony without a wild after party. So, as expected, these musical acts will perform for the virtual grad night after-party.
Oh and that’s not all. YouTube is partnering with Michelle Obama’s Reach Higher Initiative, Born This Way Foundation, Malala Fund, NBC’s “Today,” and Ideas United to feature graduates from across the globe and their stories. To take part in this event, graduates can sign their name on the Dear Class of 2020 Shout Out Board at yt.be/dearclassof2020.
Susanne Daniels, the global head of content for YouTube also spoke at length about this initiative. She stressed on the importance of this ceremony, despite the fact that the world is quite a mess right now. It’s a special moment for students and YouTube is doing everything to prevent them from missing out on it.
“We hope bringing together noteworthy, influential speakers along with performances from some of their favorite artists will provide encouragement for the students who have worked so hard to get here.” Daniels said.
So, mark your calendars because YouTube’s event will be held on June 6th. The official schedule will be out on May 17th.
