The Austin Award was established in recognition and legacy of my good friend ~ Stephen Charles Austin (1966-1998), also known in the music arena as Stevie Hyper D. Stevie was an extremely talented, versatile and popular musical artist and vocalist, who was signed to Island Records. The award symbolises triumph over adversity and all that Stevie represented and achieved, in spite of his own learning and behavioural differences.
The award aims to keep Stevie's memory alive by providing several grants a year (dependent on fundraising) and by engaging in and providing funding for music projects to marginalized and disadvantaged youth.
His nephew Darrell Austin presented the first award at the launch of the Trust, and said a few words in recognition of Stevie. I am excited to be working with Darrell, a newly appointed ambassador of Nutritious Minds, going forward.