RISE Chattanooga is launching a new initiative to showcase the diversity and excellence of the city’s creative community on a national and international level; CHA Creative Ambassador Program.

With this program Chattanooga creatives of all disciplines are selected based on their skill level, the cultural diversity and educational value of their performances and/or works and the positive, energetic responses of their audiences.

Seven local artists are traveling in November to the 21st China Shanghai International Arts Festival where they will perform at the Wuxi Grand Theatre.

RISE Chattanooga collaborated with The Sister City Association of Chattanooga, together offering an extensive series of training sessions for the participating performers and assisting in communication with Wuxi, China, Chattanooga’s sister city. 

“Since 1981 there have been frequent governmental, cultural and educational exchanges between the two cities,” said Jenny Li, vice president of Sister City Association. “It is truly a great experience and opportunity for our Chattanooga musicians from diverse backgrounds and artistic disciplines to showcase American music like Classical, Jazz, Rock, Gospel and County at this International Music Festival with the people of our sister city of Wuxi.”

“In our efforts to continue to serve as a creative vehicle to stimulate local businesses, attract tourists, and further enhance Chattanooga’s image as a vibrant cultural center for all, I'm extremely honored and excited that our program’s first destination is one of our city’s oldest partners, Wuxi, China,” said Shane Morrow, RISE Chattanooga director. “Through these types of opportunities, we are able to establish new networks for our creative community as well as increase our city’s global presence through the arts.”

The following local artists are performing at the 2019 China Shanghai International Arts Festival in November:

Vanessa A Jackson
Shawanna Kendrick
Yolanda Morton
Karen McReynolds
Nabil Ince (aka Seaux Chill)
LaShaun Porter
Given Arnold 

RISE Chattanooga (Responsive Initiatives for Social Empowerment) formerly known as Jazzanooga provides an array of cultural arts programming promoting community empowerment. For more information about the programs and services of RISE Chattanooga, visit rise.cha.org.