Final Explosion Entertainment, home of the Chicago Youth Awards.
OUR STORY
Latricia Walker-West is a Chicago-based music and entertainment executive, entrepreneur, producer, writer, publisher, momager, and Founder and CEO of Final Explosion Entertainment, NFP. In 2009, after the murder of her children's father, she saw how few positive outlets were available for youth on the West Side. She started a small dance team with family and friends, which quickly grew into a family of hundreds. Under her leadership, Final Explosion has performed and traveled across the country, produced music and videos, hosted community events, promoted youth entrepreneurship, and built a wide digital footprint. Her creation of the #50 States Challenge has taken young people to 26 states and counting. That same vision led to the Chicago Youth Awards, which will enter its fourth year in 2027, celebrating young people across Chicagoland for their talent, leadership, and impact. Latricia's leadership is rooted in creating opportunity, opening doors, and building legacy, so young people and families have spaces to thrive.
