NEW YORK, NEW YORK, (April 30, 2025): The Soloviev Foundation announces the panel for its Future Generations Essay Contest, a New York City initiative inviting public and private school students to share personal reflections on the meaning of liberty and its role in America’s evolving story.
The panel will include multiple GRAMMY-winning artist Lenny Kravitz who will help select the winning essays to be featured as part of Path of Liberty: That Which Unites US—an immersive public art installation spanning six acres on Manhattan’s East Side.
The Future Generations Essay Contest will recognize 21 students in grades 6-12 with awards ranging from $500 to $5,000 to support their future educational pursuits. The winning essay will be announced on May 8, 2025, during the official ribbon cutting ceremony for Path of Liberty: That Which Unites US, and the selected student will have the opportunity to read their essay before an audience of community leaders, advocates, and stakeholders. Students’ work will also be prominently featured within the exhibit, which opens to the public on May 15, 2025.
“The heart of our mission is the belief that children and communities hold the key to a brighter future,” said Stefan Soloviev, Principal of The Soloviev Foundation and Chairman of the Soloviev Group. “The Future Generations Essay Contest provides a platform for young New Yorkers to express their thoughts on what unites us as a city and as a nation. By amplifying their voices and sharing their experiences, we foster a deeper sense of community and invest in the ideas that will shape tomorrow’s world.”
Said Lenny Kravitz, “Freedom is a vital, underlying right that anchors all others. These students have exercised their freedom in a thoughtful way that serves as a point of inspiration and should be a model for all of us.”
“The future of our nation lies in the hands of the next generation. By supporting the Path of Liberty and the Future Generations Essay Contest, we are not just celebrating the past, we are empowering young people to share their vision for the future. Their voices are the foundation of the change we need, and it is our responsibility to listen, learn, and act," said Michael Hershman, Chief Executive Officer, Soloviev Group.
The contest aligns with the mission of Path of Liberty: That Which Unites US—to share personal stories from individuals of diverse racial, ethnic, social, and professional backgrounds, offering a rich cross-section of American life. Serving as a prelude to America 250, the 2026 United States Quarter Millennial, the installation showcases large-scale photography, compelling audio interviews, and interactive elements that invite visitors to reflect on the values and experiences that continue to shape the nation.
To reserve complimentary tickets, please visit pathoflibertynyc.com and follow @pathoflibertynyc on Facebook and Instagram for more information and updates.
ABOUT SOLOVIEV FOUNDATION
The Soloviev Foundation is the charitable giving arm of the Soloviev Group, dedicated to supporting the efforts of those working across humanitarian, environmental, and educational causes. The Foundation’s gifts go to both large, long-established institutions addressing global crises and concerns, and smaller, hyperlocal organizations serving the populations in need within their communities. For more information, visit solovievfoundation.org.
ABOUT PATH OF LIBERTY: THAT WHICH UNITES US
Encompassing more than six-acres on Manhattan’s East Side from 38th to 41st Street on First Avenue, the large-scale exhibition provides a visual and narrative journey of the founding principles of the United States, framed by stunning portraits and immersive landscapes. Made possible by the Soloviev Foundation, Path of Liberty: That Which Unites US will welcome guests and present an exploration of both the achievements and ongoing challenges of American democracy. Through powerful, large-scale environmental portraits and interactive elements, visitors will leave with a deeper understanding of the country’s past, present, and future. For more information, please visit pathoflibertynyc.com.
Preview Image: Shutterstock
