June 26th 2024.
Gerber, one of the leading baby food companies, has recently announced its 2024 baby and it's none other than the adorable one-year-old Akil McLeod Jr., lovingly called Sonny by his family. He won the hearts of the judges and the public with his contagious Black boy joy, making him the perfect fit for Gerber's 14th annual photo search.
Out of the thousands of submissions, it was Sonny's mother, Dominique, who secretly applied on behalf of her son. The Phoenix-based family was pleasantly surprised when they received the news of their son's victory. In an interview with Today, they shared their excitement and disbelief at winning such a prestigious title.
Dominique, who initially thought the chances of her son winning were slim, said, "What are the chances, right? I didn't even think about it until we received the email, and I was like, I should probably tell Akil." Her husband, Akil Sr., added that their children are part of something bigger and Sonny's win is just the first step in their bright journey as a family of four.
He further expressed, "Everyone thinks their kids are special, but this is different. I was telling them the other day, I feel like I'm here to just be their dad and guide them along the way. But they're here for something way bigger than I could ever imagine for both of them. They have something about them and they unleash something in us."
As Gerber's new baby ambassador, Sonny will be featured in the company's social media and marketing campaigns, and his family will receive a cash prize of $25,000 along with Gerber products and clothing for the next year. In addition, Gerber will also donate $5,000 to M.A.N.C.A.V.E., a community fatherhood program in Phoenix that supports and empowers fathers from all backgrounds. Akil Sr. is an active member of the organization.
When asked about her son's nickname, Dominique shared that she knew he would bring sunshine and positivity into their lives from the very beginning. She recalled, "One day, we were laying in bed, and I was pregnant with him. And I was just like, 'I need a nickname for him because it's going to get confusing with two Akils.' So the sun just perfectly came through a little peek of the window and on my belly, and I was like, 'Oh, Sonny,' and we both were like, 'Yep, that's it.' And we called him Sonny."
The McLeod family is overjoyed and grateful for this opportunity and is looking forward to Sonny's journey as the new face of Gerber. With his infectious smile and joyful spirit, Sonny is sure to bring even more love and happiness into the world.
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