MTA’s For the Love of You was the annual youth talent show and arts showcase in commemoration of National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day and Valentines Day. The theme was designed around love: self-love, love of others and love of your community. Apparently the snow has been encouraging youths’ creativity as there were 15 performances ranging from poetry and spoken work to dance to song and other art forms, all focusing around how to be a positive and supportive to yourself, your loves, and your community. The event attracted 115 attendees who also had opportunities to receive HIV or STI tests and learn about health issues across DC and the metropolitan area.

The event was hosted by LeeAngelo “Handsome Henson” Henson and featured a talented array of performances from poets to rappers to singers with the beautiful vibes of The Poetique Lyssa J wrapping things up. Between performances, DJ Mambo kept everyone entertained with a nice blend of Hip Hop and R&B while Henson engaged the crowd in HIV/STI trivia questions. Island Moon Catering provided food, drinks, and dessert.