Master P and Romeo took the stage at the recent Essence Music Festival in New Orleans, but instead of performing, they came to send their message of change, education, hard work and following one's dreams to thousands of local youth.

While addressing the crowd, many of whom had lined up hours before their arrival, the father and son team talked about the importance of education and vision as tools for inner city kids to overcome the extreme challenges they face in daily life.

"New Orleans is my home, it's where I was born and raised," said Master P. "I was able to overcome an environment filled with poverty, drugs, and violence through education, setting goals, and dreaming big. I understand the financial struggles faced by inner-city families, so I created high fashion clothing at affordable prices that will be available at Wal-Mart in August for back-to-school season. I look forward to coming back to Essence year after year to empower our youth and watch my people grow."

As a former resident of New Orleans' notorious Calliope Projects, Master P stood before the audience as a living example of how one can break free from the confines of a negative environment and become a successful role model for others. He now counts promoting education, financial literacy and aiding underprivileged children among his responsibilities.

Romeo during his senior year at high school, he was injured, unable to play basketball, so he focused on his studies. The experience of sitting on the bench, watching his teammates play, made him realize how important school is, which is why he pushes that issue to the kids today.

"Kids always think that basketball and sports is the only thing you can do, but it definitely made me realize how much more important my education really is," Romeo told BallerStatus.com in a recent interview. "That's what really made me wanna pursue this and show the kids that everything is possible. If you have an education, then life beyond your education can go that much farther."

P and Romeo were joined by brands such as Coca-Cola and Wal-Mart in support the Essence Music Festival in their hometown. Together, the sponsors, speakers, and entertainers pledged to continue the rebuilding efforts after the devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina. The community finds itself at the mercy of a high crime rate and lack of education, which Master P and Romeo seek to rectify through their inspirational messages and actions.