Introduction to Ice Spice’s Surprise Visit
The Bronx’s hometown superstar, Ice Spice surprised and inspired young women last week appearing at a wellness event in the West Bronx along with the nonprofit Girls Inc. and fashion designer Kate Spade.
Background on Ice Spice
Ice Spice, the four-time Grammy-nominated rapper and Bronx native, returned to her roots last week to surprise young women in Mount Hope with a message of pride, resilience, and empowerment. The celebrated musical artist partnered with girls’ leadership nonprofit Girls Inc. for a Wellness Mini Summit at the Young Women’s Leadership School on Wednesday May 21 to teach young women tools for coping with stress and managing their mental health.
Ice Spice’s Connection to the Bronx
Stepping into a room full of excited students, Ice Spice spoke candidly about growing up in the Bronx, finding her voice through music, and staying connected to her community. “This is home,” Ice Spice said to the young women. “Everything I am started right here, so coming back and showing love means everything to me.” Ice Spice, whose real name is Isis Naija Gaston, was born and raised in the Fordham Road section of the borough.
The Wellness Event
The wellness event was part of a partnership between New York City fashion designer Kate Spade and Girls Inc. to support its Mind Body Matters program which teaches young women how the mind and body can work together to improve mental health and reduce stress. The Girls Inc. Wellness Mini Summit taught young girls in the Bronx about how the mind and body work together to cope with stress and improve mental health.
Ice Spice’s Rise to Fame
Before becoming a chart-topping artist with over 2.5 billion global streams, Ice Spice was a girl from the Boogie Down, writing lyrics on her iPhone and drawing inspiration from hip-hop legends like Jay-Z, Lil’ Kim, and Nicki Minaj. She met producer RiotUSA while attending SUNY Purchase, a connection that would lead to her breakout track “Bully Freestyle” and later, her viral hit “Munch.”
Event Activities and Giveaways
The Bronx students enjoyed a special screening of Kate Spade’s latest campaign video, “To the Ones Who Carry Us” starring Ice Spice and Charli D’Amelio celebrating the power of female friendships. The summit then offered a day of immersive wellness activities—from mindfulness exercises and dance fitness to self-care stations and community workshops. The rising superstar then topped off the wellness event with a special giveaway of Kate Spade Deco art deco inspired handbags to four lucky students.
Mind Body Matters Program
The Mind Body Matters program, which began in 2020, aims to expand nationally, reaching 250,000 women and girls by 2030. Ice Spice’s partnership with Girls Inc. and Kate Spade reflects her growing influence beyond music, as she becomes an advocate for youth empowerment and mental health awareness.
Conclusion
The event wasn’t just a homecoming—it was a full-circle moment, as Ice Spice used her platform to uplift the very community that shaped her. This partnership and event showcase the importance of community, empowerment, and mental health awareness, especially among young women.
FAQs
Q: Who is Ice Spice and why is she notable?
A: Ice Spice is a four-time Grammy-nominated rapper and Bronx native who has become a chart-topping artist with over 2.5 billion global streams. She is notable for her music and her commitment to empowering young women and promoting mental health awareness.
Q: What is the Mind Body Matters program?
A: The Mind Body Matters program is an initiative by Girls Inc. that teaches young women how the mind and body can work together to improve mental health and reduce stress. It aims to expand nationally and reach 250,000 women and girls by 2030.
Q: What was the purpose of Ice Spice’s visit to the Bronx?
A: Ice Spice visited the Bronx to participate in a Wellness Mini Summit with Girls Inc. and Kate Spade, where she shared her story, promoted mental health awareness, and empowered young women in her community.
Q: What activities were part of the Wellness Mini Summit?
A: The summit included a special screening of Kate Spade’s campaign video, mindfulness exercises, dance fitness, self-care stations, community workshops, and a giveaway of Kate Spade handbags.
Q: How can I learn more about Girls Inc. and the Mind Body Matters program?
A: You can learn more about Girls Inc. and the Mind Body Matters program by visiting their official website or social media channels, where you can find information on their initiatives, events, and how to get involved.
