For two decades Dennis Rahiim Watson kept the dream alive that one day the US would elect an African American President.

His one-man show 'The First Black President of the United States' has toured more than 1,000 US colleges and universities, portraying an image of what a black Commander-in-Chief would look, act and sound like.

Flanked by 'Secret Service' agents, Mr. Watson is the 'President' and stages a mock press conference, fielding questions from the audience on foreign, domestic and social policy.

Now, 25 years since his original concept, Americans have finally elected a black US President.

As Mr. Watson celebrated the 25th anniversary of his show last summer, Barack Obama was among those to pay tribute to him.

Obama told him in a letter: "In the African American community, and in every community, we know what young people need. They need education and opportunity, and strong role models who point them along the path of responsible adulthood and away from temptations to do wrong.

"You have broadcast the message that all children can dream big dreams, and that anyone, regardless of the colour of their skin, can achieve anything. Anyone can grow up to become the President of the United States.

"Congratulations again on the 25th anniversary of your show. I wish you all the best as you work to spread a positive message and inspire people of all ages with your one-man show."

Former US President Bill Clinton also praised Mr. Watson's work as a motivational speaker.

He said: "For a quarter of a century, your show has used the power of theatre to give disadvantaged black youth an insight into the future and its possibilities.

"Your life's work has been a true investment in the future of our nation."

Mr. Watson said he always believed a black man would become President, but was still "deeply moved" when it finally took place. On January 20, he attended Obama's inauguration in Washington D.C. at the invitation of the Congressional Black Caucus.

"I cried like a baby, I felt so proud," he said. "I've been on the road for 25 years plugging the show, and all of a sudden Barack Obama comes along."

Since Obama became President, Mr. Watson has received numerous letters, e-mails and telephone calls, offering messages of congratulations.

"People who brought me to their colleges to speak have been telling me they never thought they would live long enough to see an African American elected as President, but I've been holding the flag since 1983," said Mr. Watson.

"At that time it was laughable to think a black man could be President, but I wanted to portray the black man as intelligent and thoughtful, rather than just being seen as an entertainer or an athlete. I wanted to make people believe a black President was possible."

Mr. Watson, 55, who now lives in New York City, said: "'The First Black President' was a vehicle to showcase to black youth the image of a world-class leader who has mastered the English language along with great people skills, and who speaks with power, confidence and authority. His personal grooming and appearance also speaks volumes about the President in an era of sagging pants, illiteracy and lack of personal responsibility.

"Young people have got to read and study, and Barack Obama is a perfect example of that.

"My message to Bermuda's youth is 'Yes, you can', because our families and ancestors sacrificed and struggled against all the odds for Barack Obama and his generation to walk through the doors they fought so hard to open."

Mr. Watson dedicates his show to Earl and Carol Ann Furbert of Bermuda theatre group 'We Are People Too', his mother Eula Watson-Stewart, his elementary and secondary school teachers, and political mentor Dr. Roosevelt Brown.