Positivity Survived at Go Fest Five

Chicago rap artist Twista is congratulated by (l-r) True Star Co-Founder Na-Tae’ Thompson, FTG Co-Creator Zuri Yearwood, From the ‘Go Show Co-Hosts Kennedye Harris and Sullivan Grace Anderson, TS Co-Founder DeAnna Sherman, and FTG Show Co-Host Gary Langfield Jr during the From the ‘Go Fest at the DuSable Museum courtyard.

If you weren’t at the From the ‘Go Fest this weekend, then where were you? This year’s festival was one for the books. Despite the on-and-off again rain, True Star did not come to play. This annual event, now in its fifth year, featured local talent from all across the Chicagoland area with a special guest performance by the Legend Award honoree, Twista.

The From the ‘Go Fest is all about giving Chicago youth a platform to shine, whether that’s on stage performing, behind the camera, or interviewing the artists. The event, hosted by True Star’s very own “From the ‘Go Show” hosts Sullivan Grace Anderson, Gary Langfield Jr, and Kennedey Harris, was held outdoors in the DuSable Museum courtyard. The day was complete with live painting by Brenda Dickerson, positive energy, good food, and great performances. And the best part? It was totally free! That was only possible because of the amazing sponsors that came together to support the event, including Metropolitan Peace Initiative, Jordan, Sprite, Dreihaus Foundation, Comcast, and Vitamin Water.

Attendees were given cans of Sprite Tea to quench their thirst.

In addition to having vendors as young as seventeen sell their merchandise, we had performers of all ages showing up and showing out. In an interview with 18- year-old singer Zia Jenaye, she spoke fondly about the FTG Fest saying, “It’s just a good time… I love what they do for the young people.” Zia was one of our headliners along with Happy Birthday Calvin, Sherionn, Vaadi (AKA Genesis Denise Hale), and Lil M.U. Now let’s talk about Lil M.U. for a second. She hit the stage and owned it. From the dancers, to the choreography, and doing it all while rapping, you could see how much she loved performing, and the crowd gave that love right back to her.

Another highlight of the day was the footwork contest sponsored by Jordan. Contestants danced in a pair of shoes supplied by the iconic brand to win their very own pair.

Footwork competition sponsored by Jordan.

From the Go Fest 2025 wasn’t your typical showcase. Young creatives played leading roles not just in performance but also in steps of the production of the festival. True Star participants handled videography, editing, social media, marketing, and event coordination — gaining valuable, hands-on experience, insight, and behind the scenes access to this fast-moving world of media.

The ‘Go Fest wasn’t just fun, it was a celebration of youth, culture, and community. Embracing the roots of Chicago and its music and dance scene, it was an event everybody could come and vibe with.

Kamari Harris records Sullivan Anderson. / Photo: Olivia Quiles

The fest may have wrapped for the summer, but the impact is just beginning. Artists gained new fans, companies gained new customers, and the city gained new culture. One thing is clear – the future of Chicago is not just beginning, it’s already here.

Check out our Instagram pages @Truestarchicago and @Fromthegofest for more highlights.

By True Star Staff

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