Yesterday, the MVP3 Foundation and the City of Memphis marked a significant milestone with the unveiling of the Three Generations mural, a powerful tribute to legendary actor John Amos. The mural stands as a symbol of unity, fatherhood, and the city’s commitment to addressing youth challenges while building stronger families and brighter futures.

The unveiling also spotlighted hands-on opportunities for local students. Film and TV students from Westwood High School partnered with East STEM Academy students on collaborative film projects, offering real-world experience in media, art, music, marketing, and filmmaking. Joshua Casey, a student who filmed the event, was named the first recipient of the MVP3 John Amos Grant. His work was live-streamed on the MVP3 Network, and the mural was even featured on a Times Square billboard in New York City, amplifying Memphis talent and inviting tourists to visit the MVP3 Foundation Wall of Fame downtown at 88 S Front Street.

The mural, created by local artist and educator Cameron Hill, received sponsorship from the City of Memphis and Councilman Ford Jr. Pastor Dan Henley opened the ceremony with a prayer and uplifting message, declaring that Memphis is moving from “worst to best” with collaborations, real role models, and celebrations of family unity.

Among the leaders present, longtime Shelby County Commissioner Walter Bailey stressed the importance of unity and fatherhood in transforming Memphis for future generations. Councilman Ford Sr. spoke on the impact of the arts and fathers in strengthening communities. Joe Calhoun of the Withers Museum praised the mural’s message and influence, while Brian Harris emphasized building youth career pathways tied directly to paternal and community involvement.

In a moving moment, Commissioner Edmund Ford Jr. presented KC Amos, son of John Amos, with a county key and proclamation honoring John’s lifelong work and legacy. KC reflected on the deep personal significance of the mural, which captured three generations of his family, and pledged to continue honoring his father’s legacy through work with the MVP3 Foundation.

The ceremony also saw Southwest Tennessee Community College theater instructor Thomas King nominate his student, Rico Parker, for the MVP3 John Amos Award—recognizing integrity, media excellence, and community purpose.

The event drew a strong turnout, including Dr. Trenton Watson, principal of Westwood High School, community leaders, and candidates for public office. Local media covered the momentous occasion, lending their support for MVP3’s mission to combine the arts and community advancement.

Student Involvement and Future Plans

A highlight of the day was the visible excitement from students, who engaged with KC Amos directly, participating in film-related activities. Westwood High School and Collierville High School now officially have their own channels on the MVP3 Network, creating a platform for student work to reach broader audiences. Plans are already underway for Collierville students to launch and co-produce the new MVP3 News show on the Network.

This aligns with the MVP3 Foundation’s mission to heal communities through the arts. By connecting film, TV, and creative arts students across schools, the foundation provides mentorship and hands-on skill development, empowering youth to build careers in the entertainment industry while fueling Memphis’s creative economy.

A Vision for Memphis Arts

MVP3 Foundation founder and president Marie Pizano shared insight into her long-term vision: establishing a thriving Memphis-based entertainment industry centered on integrity, collaboration, and opportunity. She emphasized the need to break down silos and embrace collective creativity, contrasting Memphis’s slow arts infrastructure development with cities like Nashville.

“For two decades, I’ve been working to establish a thriving industry without much support—often met with resistance,” Pizano explained. “But my philosophy has always been, you got sticks, I got a match … together we can build a fire. This collaboration is how we make Memphis thrive.”

Pizano underscored that industry change must be rooted in integrity and new leadership, creating healthy alternatives to toxic industry models. By bringing in partners aligned with this vision, she aims to transform Memphis into a city that fully embraces and invests in its creative talent.

A Community Ready for Change

The Three Generations mural unveiling was more than a celebration of art; it was a call to action. By honoring John Amos, celebrating family and fatherhood, and uplifting students, the event reinforced Memphis’s potential to lead with creativity, collaboration, and unity.

As Pizano concluded, “I’m on a mission to empower others, tell the truth, and break cycles. Music, film, media—these are vital to our mental health and community growth. The energy is here, the talent is here—it’s time to finally light up Memphis and find our Yes together.”

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