.OZYFest founder talks getting attendees 'out of their bubble' and hosting with AROD
Marcus Samuelsson“I’ve never bought into the idea that people only like music or are only interested in politics,” says Watson. “I like sports and I don’t mind watchingHosting this year’s event alongside Watson is former New York Yankees all star , adding that Rodriguez originally tried to pull out of the speaking engagement because he had experienced too many hot and unorganized events in July in Central Park.
“He called me up right after Ozy Fest last year and said, ‘I want to get involved,’” says Watson. “He has helped us vet guests and think about the venue and the food and setup media partners and work with us on bringing in sponsors. He’s definitely been a roll-up-your-sleeves, in-it-to-win-it partner. It’s been really good.”
Between Rodriguez, who grew up in the Boys & Girls Club of America, and Watson, who is the son and grandson of educators, the Ozy Fest team has made it their mission to make the event accessible for students, educators, veterans, social workers and caregivers. For this year’s festival, they reached out to more than 100 schools and non-profits to provide complimentary tickets to those who want to learn and meet other people with varying ideas.
“I always wanted to believe that Ozy Fest would not just bring people to new ideas, but to new people and people would meet,” says Watson. “I hope that, more than anything, will be our legacy. We put on a great program, but in my mind it is done to facilitate people meeting new people.”
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