New York Trend NYC: July 13 – 19, 2023

NEW YORK TREND

MAYOR DAVID DINKINS, REP. CHARLES RANGEL, HONORED WITH LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS

SUPREME COURT’S DECISION WILL

INCREASE RACIAL INEQUALITY

By NATIONAL URBAN LEAGUE

The U.S. Supreme Court has rejected affirmative action in university admissions, ruling that race-conscious decisions are unconstitutional. The decision will have a limited impact on the UC system, but private schools like Stanford will be heavily affected. The Supreme Court didn't ban affirmative action, they banned racebased affirmative action and race-conscious admissions.

The Black Stars News 2015 Annual Awards Dinner will honor Mayor David Dinkins, Rep. Charles Rangel, Rep. Yvette Clarke, R. Donahue Peebles, Barbara Arnwine, Inez Barron, Sabrina Lamb, Dr. Rudy Crew, Stephen Byrd, Alia Jones, and the Central Park Five survivors of gross injustice on December 18 from 6:00pm –10:00pm at MIST Harlem, 46 West 116th Street

for further destabilization of the nation’s economy.

“The Court’s decision in Biden

CELEBRATING30 YEARS!

gifts from the chairman of a group that asked the court to block the plan.

“Crushing student loan debt is a key driver of the racial wealth and opportunity gap.  It has created a vicious cycle that forces the most

“Each honoree chosen for recognition has demonstrated exceptional leadership and vision in her or his respective profession or endeavor and in some significant measure has contributed towards creating a more just society in this country,” says Black Star News founder and publisher Milton Allimadi. “Obviously much work needs to be done here and around the world.”

The gala starts at 6:00pm with a cocktail hour to be followed by the dinner and awards ceremonies. There will be musical entertainment by opera singer Cassandra Douglas and from harmonica phenomenon William Galison. David Dinkins is honored for Lifetime Achievement

— he was New York City’s first African American mayor and also welcomed Nelson Mandela to the city after his release in 1990.

In response to the Supreme Court’s decision, National Urban League President Marc H. Morial issued the following statement on student loan relief:

“In striking down President Biden’s student loan relief plan, the Supreme Court has delivered a second devastating blow in as many days to the movement for racial justice and set the stage

Rep. Charles Rangel, also honored for Lifetime Achievement, has served in Congress since 1971. He is a recipient of The Bronze medal for helping save soldiers behind enemy line during the Korean War

Rep. Yvette Clarke is a Democratic member of the US House of Representatives from New York whose 9th district covers much of central Brooklyn. Before entering Congress in 2007, she

v. Nebraska is, incredibly, even more nakedly political than their decisions to strike down affirmative action. President Biden’s plan not only is overwhelmingly favored by the American people, it would invigorate the national economy. That’s a political problem for the President’s adversaries, but not a constitutional one. Furthermore, one of the justices who voted with the majority accepted lavish

R. Donahue Peebles, honoree, is a leading developer and founder of The Peebles Co., the nation’s largest African American-owned real estate firm with $3.5 billion worth of properties under development or management — he was one of the pioneering developerswho helped turn around and revitalize the once-blighted Anacostia neighborhood in Washington, D.C. A champion of African-American economic empowerment Peebles’ is contemplating a possible run for NYC mayor in 2017.

Honoree Barbara Arnwine, civil rights lawyer, is a champion of protecting voting rights of ethnic minority groups — the emerging

and executive producer, radio DJ, poet, songwriter, music recording artist and producer, rapper, writer and community activist. He began his career as a radio DJ in Buffalo at age 15. For over 30 years, he’s been a talk show host at WBLS and WLIB radio in New York City. He also has a Friday night radio talk show on WBAI

vulnerable students to take on disproportionate financial risk to pursue a higher education, only to find themselves even further behind.

York and a former chancellor of the New York public schools system. Pioneering producers Stephen Byrd and Alia Jones, through their company Front Row Production, brought “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof” and “A Streetcar Named Desire” with a multi-ethnic cast to Broadway. In 2016 they bring “Eclipsed” with Oscar Winner Lupita Nyong ’O to Broadway. Central miscarriage of justice in New York’s history; having been railroaded and unjustly convicted for a crime they did not commit and for which they served long prison sentences ranging from seven years to 13 years before being exonerated when the actual rapist confessed. They are: Yusef Abdus Salaam; Raymond Santana Jr., Antron McCray, Kevin Kharey Wise. The Black Star News, which focuses on investigative journalism, has been featured as a result of some if its news scoops, on CNN, The New York Daily News, The New York Post, The Village Voice, and Brill’s Content magazine.

“History will remember this week as a low point for the nation’s highest court. The National Urban League will continue to seek justice for Americans who are trapped by our nation’s unjust system of financing higher education.”

Honoree Sabrina Lamb, founder of World of Money, is a champion of financial literacy for youth-- she teaches knowledge about handling money, budgeting and planning. Dr. Rudy Crew, honoree, is one of the nation’s leading educators. He’s president of Medgar Evers College of The City University of New

Past Black Star News honorees have included: Gil Noble (Like It Is), Rep. Maxine Waters, Soledad O’Brien (CNN), Ms. Camille Cosby, Voza Rivers (New Heritage Theatre), Errol Louis (NY1 News), Amel Larrieux (Entertainer), Dr. William Pollard (Medgar Evers College), Herm Edwards (NY Jets), Nayaba Arinde (Amsterdam News), La-Verna Fountain (Columbia University), Lillian Roberts (DC37), Desiree Dancy (New York Times), Greg Floyd (Local 237), Rev. Al Sharpton (National Action Network), and many others.

“Crushing student loan debt is a key driver of the racial wealth and opportunity gap."

“Crushing student loan debt is a key driver of the racial wealth and opportunity gap."

Photo Source: National Urban League

TACO BELL NAMES BLACK CEO OF WORLDWIDE RESTAURANTS

43-year-old Sean Tresvant has made history as the first-ever African American CEO of Taco Bell. He will oversee the popular Mexican fast-food chain's almost 8,000 restaurants worldwide and is taking on the role just two years after joining the company as its Global Chief Brand Officer Taco Bell currently serves over two billion customers each year with more than $10 billion in annual revenue.

Tresvant worked at Nike for over 15 years, where he worked as the Vice President of Marketing and the Chief Marketing Officer for the Jordan brand. He also worked for Pepsico for five years, and his senior-level roles have expanded to include strategy, food innovation, architecture and design, global communications, and international business.

Tresvant has played a significant role in Taco Bell's marketing successes, notably the successful relaunch of the beloved Mexican Pizza. Tresvant's focus on culture and innovation has made him the ideal executive to lead Taco Bell's long-term global growth strategies to new heights. "The love our fans and team members have for Taco Bell is extraordinary and means we're in a unique position to push the limits on culture and become a

brand that inspires and enables the world to Live Más," Tresvant referred to the brand's motto in a statement, according to Restaurant Business Online Taco Bell's parent company, Yum Brands,

believes that Tresvant will bring great success to the brand. David Gibbs, CEO of Yum Brands, says that Tresvant is a visionary leader and exceptional brand builder. He has a lot of confidence that he

will continue to keep the Taco Bell brand at the forefront of culture and redefine industry innovation. He will officially begin his role as CEO in January 2024.

MASN AND ICE CUBE’S BIG 3 LAUNCH PROGRAMMING PARTNERSHIP

The Mid-Atlantic Sports Network (MASN) and Ice Cube’s BIG3 pro league are joining forces to launch a programming and community partnership, bringing the excitement of televised three-on-three basketball to seven new states. This historic partnership will allow for viewing 52 professional 3-on-3 basketball league games this summer, starting later this month.

The BIG3 league, founded by producer, actor, and artist Ice Cube has quickly become the hottest growth property in sports. The summer 3-on-3 tour tipped off Sunday, June 25, extending nine weeks with games in Chicago, Dallas, New York,

Memphis, Miami, Boston, DC, Charlotte, and Detroit. All-Star and Championship Games will take place across the pond in London, England, on August 26th. BIG3 features many of the biggest names in basketball history, including coaches Gilbert Arenas, Charles Oakley, George Gervin, Gary Payton, Nancy Lieberman, Stephen Jackson, Lisa Leslie, Rick Barry, Rick Mahorn, and Julius Erving. Players this year include Joe Johnson, Jason Richardson, Nick Young, Michael Beasley, Isaiah Briscoe, Mario Chalmers, Leandro Barbosa, Gerald Green, Frank Nitty, Kevin Murphy, and many more.

“The addition of MASN to our media partnership family is a tremendous milestone for the BIG3,” said Ice Cube “This collaboration allows us to bring more of BIG3’s signature style of 3-on-3 to an area of the country that has shown us tons of love.”

“Cube and BIG3 energize communities across the country,” said MASN and Orioles Chair, CEO, and Managing Partner John Angelos “This partnership is another step toward merging Major League Baseball’s economic development power and our network’s world-class live entertainment production capabilities with visionaries like Cube and Jeff MLB

and BIG3 can together rejuvenate the communities where our kids learn, live, and play.”

“Our primary goal has been working to get all of our games in front of the best sports fans,” said BIG3 President and CoFounder Jeff Kwatinetz “The Mid-Atlantic region has some of the most dedicated BIG3 fans, and we are excited to bring FIREBALL, our unique brand of play, to a top tier regional sports network that is already home to iconic, must-see sports teams like the Orioles.”

The BIG3 is returning to a full nationwide touring model with stops at arenas in Dallas, New York, Memphis, Miami, Boston, Charlotte, Detroit, Washington D.C., and London, England. To learn more about the BIG3 and see the full season schedule, go to BIG3.com and follow @thebig3 on Twitter and Instagram BIG3 (BIG3.com) is who we are, FIREBALL3 is what we play. It’s not your grandfather’s 3-on-3. The premier global BIG3 league features many of the greatest, most popular and skilled professional athletes of all time. Founded by producer, actor and music legend Ice Cube and entertainment executive Jeff Kwatinetz, the BIG3 combines highly competitive, physical, fast game experiences and incredible fan experiences. In 2023, the BIG3 was named “Best in Web3” by Sports Business Journal for the league’s groundbreaking Web3 Project, Forever Experience Action Tokens (FEATs), The Mid-Atlantic Sports Network (MASN) is a regional sports network and multimedia platform that televises every available game of both the Baltimore Orioles and Washington Nationals, preand postgame shows, and NCAA Division I men’s and women’s sports, totaling more than 500 live events annually.

Photo Source: Blacknews.com

JULY IS NATIONAL BLACK FAMILY MONTH

Did you know that July is National Black Family Month? This holiday is all about celebrating families and important family members. We all know that family is extremely important within the black community. So, this Black Family Month, celebrate the family you've got by planning reunions and getting together with them as much as you can. Need some ideas on fun things to do with your family?  Here goes:

 Host a family game night;

 Volunteer in the community to shine your light.

 Have a fun movie watch weekend;

 Read a book together from beginning to end.

 Have a garage sale to clear out clutter;

 Attend church together to uplift one another.

 Bake various types of sweet treats;

 Play video games to see who wins/ beats.

 Go on a family picnic to enjoy being care-free;

 Create that all important family tree.

 Go to a museum to let your imagination ignite;

 Have a fun and challenging karaoke

night. Doing things together with your family is a great way to create opportunities to

bond and share deeper thoughts about life.

Happy National Black Family Month!

‘ DISNEY JUNIOR’S ARIEL ’ COMES TO DISNEY TV

Disney Branded Television has greenlit a new animated series for preschoolers, “Disney Junior’s Ariel,” inspired by the beloved story of “The Little Mermaid.” The announcement was made today by Ayo Davis, president of Disney Branded Television, during the Annecy International Film Festival in Annecy, France. The new series follows a young Ariel and features some fan-favorite characters, including King Triton, Ursula, Sebastian and Flounder, as well as exciting new additions. “Disney

Junior’s Ariel” is set to debut on Disney platforms worldwide in 2024. While making the announcement, Davis said, “For more than 30 years, the story of ‘The Little Mermaid’ has been beloved by audiences all over the world. It brings me so much joy to be able to introduce our new Disney Junior version of Ariel to preschoolers everywhere.”

Alyssa Sapire, Senior Vice President of Development, Series and Strategy for Disney Junior, added, “As we were developing ‘Disney Junior’s Ariel,’

we knew that we wanted to create an atmosphere that was vibrant and magical and showcased our young Ariel’s imagination, which, like our preschool audience watching at home, is as big as the sea.”

Set in the fantastical Caribbeaninspired underwater kingdom of Atlantica, the series follows Ariel as she embarks on fun-filled, actionpacked mermaid adventures with her friends. Driven by a deep and unending curiosity about the world around her, Ariel discovers land treasures, like a

big floppy hat, squeaky rubber ducky and whisk, that she collects and keeps safe in her crystal cavern. Sometimes, Ariel uses the treasures to help solve problems. With each discovery, Ariel is filled with joy, and her mermaid tail, which changes colors depending on her emotions, lights up and shimmers. Full of charm, big ideas and a powerful voice, “Disney Junior’s Ariel” is coming into her own, learning how to discover and appreciate the world around her and use her voice to inspire others. Throughout the series, the multicultural diversity of the Caribbean is highlighted through music, food, festivals, fashion, language and folklore. Dr. Patricia Saunders, professor of English and hemispheric Caribbean studies and director of graduate studies at the University of Miami and author of two books, serves as cultural consultant on the series. Sean Skeete, chair of Berklee College of Music’s ensemble department, is the Caribbean music consultant.

“Disney Junior’s Ariel” is executive produced by Lynne Southerland (“Mulan II,” “Happily Ever After”). Norma P. Sepulveda (“Elena of Avalor”) and Keith Wagner (“TrollsTopia”) are the story editors. Ezra Edmond (“Disney+ Draw Me a Story”) is producer. Kuni Tomita Bowen (“Dora the Explorer”) is supervising director, and Chrystin Garland (“Solar Opposites”) is art director. The series is produced by Wild Canary in association with Disney Junior.

NIKKIA REVEILLAC

DIRECTOR OF CONSUMER INSIGHTS NETFLIX

NIKKIA REVEILLAC is a passionate people advocate, a global culture maven, and a change agent. She is currently a Director of Consumer Insights at Netflix and is the former Head of Research at Twitter. Prior to Twitter, Nikkia spent many years at Colgate-Palmolive Company, where she developed a reputation for being a visionary in insights with an affinity for innovation, impact, and action.

Nikkia attributes her success as a leader to her love for building collaborative relationships with her business partners and her hunger to deeply understand what drives the diverse individuals on her team. She shows up authentically as a challenger of the status quo with a global POV, thanks to her early career in dance, her Caribbean upbringing, her experience working in four countries, and leading teams across four continents.

Source: https://www. nikkiareveillac.com/about

Nikkia now resides in Brooklyn, New York where she can still be

found dancing, with her husband and two daughters.

ENTERTAINMENT

iHeart RADIO LIVING BLACK !’ CELEBRATION

iHeartMedia, the number one audio company in the U.S., today announced the third annual “iHeartRadio Living Black!”

2023 a special event featuring performances by Usher, Miguel, GloRilla, Coco Jones and NLE Choppa at Market Street in Inglewood, California, a hub for Black art, music, and culture in Los Angeles. The event will also feature special appearances from LL COOL J, Ty Dolla $ign, Roddy Ricch, Warren G, Chlöe, Lola Brooke, D Smoke, Kash Doll, SleazyWorld Go, DDG and more. The special event will exclusively stream on iHeartRadio’s YouTube and Facebook and broadcast on iHeartMedia Hip-Hop and R&B stations and the iHeartRadio app on August 2 at 7 p.m. local time and feature iHeartRadio personalities including The Breakfast Club’s DJ Envy and Charlamagne tha God, Angela Yee, Big Boy and Nyla Symone

The iHeartRadio Living Black!

2023 event is inspired by the culture, history and innovation of Black culture and hip-hop. In addition to the music, the hour-long special is an interactive block party that brings Black culture to life while celebrating the 50th anniversary of hip-hop including:

 HAIR-itage: Black hair is undoubtedly a major part of Black culture and Black expression. It has also played a major role in hip-hop in the past 50 years. Angela Yee will welcome celebrity stylist Jay Christopher to the block party to discuss some of the most iconic and influential hair looks of the past five decades of hip-hop and explore how some of those looks are relevant today.

 Mic Drop: This segment will celebrate artists who are on their ascension to superstardom. These talented wordsmiths drop a hot 16 bar freestyle right in the center of the block party. A spotlight and a mic magically appear, setting the stage for what feels like an impromptu cypher.

 In The Booth: Every artist remembers their first visit to the studio and there's nothing like stepping in the booth for the first time. There are endless stories about the icon's first time spittin' in the studio, or even their first time as a guest. Special guest talent will share intimate details about their time in the studio, including who was there, how they felt and what they witnessed.

 Flip The Script: Big Boy’s

Neighborhood: Big Boy's Neighborhood has been a trusted voice in Hip Hop for decades. Big Boy will reminisce on iconic hip-

said Doc Wynter, President of Hip Hop and R&B Programming for iHeartMedia “Living Black! is a true testament to the power and

than 860 live broadcast stations in over 160 markets nationwide; its National Sales organization; and the company’s live and virtual

hop moments, breaking news on radio and reflect on the impact his show has had on Black and hip-hop culture.

 FundaMENTAL Bars: Many hip-hop artists are breaking down the stigma around mental health. Charlamagne tha God will sit with Elliot Connie to talk about how hiphop started as an authentic Black voice and how it has evolved over the last 50 years and is now on a path of healing. Charlamagne and Elliot will celebrate a few lyrics from hip-hop’s greatest and talk about its relevance in today’s culture.

The Living Black! event continues the celebration of the 50th anniversary of hip-hop. Throughout this year, iHeartRadio has created memorial moments across its platforms and live events including custom audio tributes with top recording artists sharing why they fell in love with hip-hop. Artists who participated in those include Diddy, Ice Cube, French Montana, 50 Cent, Latto, DJ Khalid, Ice T, LL COOL J, Busta Rhymes and more. Additionally, during the 2023 iHeartRadio Music Awards, LL COOL J delivered a special performance as a tribute to the 50th anniversary of hip-hop.

“We’re thrilled to celebrate iHeartRadio Living Black! in its third year, bringing together fans and superstar artists to honor Black culture and continue to celebrate the 50th anniversary of hip-hop,”

lasting influence of Black artists and the community they reflect. We’re excited to once again partner with some of the very best talent and celebrate the impact that Black lives have on American culture.”

“iHeartRadio Living Black! is an exciting opportunity to celebrate Black culture, highlight Black excellence and showcase its influence,” said Thea Mitchem, Executive VP of Programming Hip Hop and R&B Strategy for iHeartMedia “Now in our third year, Living Black! gathers its best lineup yet and we’re thrilled to bring them and our audience a truly unforgettable experience.”

Produced by Emmy and Grammy award-winning producer Rikki Hughes and the Magic Lemonade Team, the “iHeartRadio Living Black!” special event on August 2 will stream on iHeartRadio’s YouTube and Facebook and broadcast on iHeartMedia HipHop and R&B stations and the iHeartRadio app.

iHeartMedia (NASDAQ: IHRT) is the number one audio company in the United States, reaching nine out of 10 Americans every month. It consists of three business groups. With its quarter of a billion monthly listeners, the iHeartMedia Multiplatform Group has a greater reach than any other media company in the U.S. Its leadership position in audio extends across multiple platforms, including more

events business. It also includes Premiere Networks, the industry’s largest Networks business, with its Total Traffic and Weather Network (TTWN); and BIN: Black Information Network, the first and only 24/7 national and local all news audio service for the Black community. iHeartMedia also leads the audio industry in analytics, targeting and attribution for its marketing partners with its SmartAudio suite of data targeting and attribution products using data from its massive consumer base.

The iHeartMedia Digital Audio Group includes the company’s fast-growing podcasting business -- iHeartMedia is the number one podcast publisher in downloads, unique listeners, revenue and earnings -- as well as its industryleading iHeartRadio digital service, available across more than 250 platforms and 2,000 devices; the company’s digital sites, newsletters, digital services and programs; its digital advertising technology companies; and its audio industryleading social media footprint.

The company’s Audio & Media Services reportable segment includes Katz Media Group, the nation’s largest media representation company, and RCS, the world's leading provider of broadcast and webcast software. Visit iHeartMedia.com for more company information.

Source: iHeartMedia, Inc.

ENTERTAINMENT UNIVERSAL HIP HOP MUSEUM SERIES DEBUTS

A&E Network announces the new series “Hip Hop Treasures” following the search for lost Hip Hop memorabilia set to premiere on August 12 at 10PM ET/PT. Led by LL COOL J and Ice T alongside field collectors and museum curators, the team tells the story of some of Hip Hop’s greatest artists and the items they made famous such as The Notorious B.I.G.’s iconic jersey from the “Juicy” video, Flavor Flav’s clocks, DMX’s Aaliyah car, and more. This exclusive partnership between A&E, Pulse Films, LL COOL J’s Rock The Bells and The Universal Hip Hop Museum honors these music legends and brings their items back to the birthplace of the culture, The Bronx. “Hip Hop Treasures” provides a behind the scenes look at the people and items that gave birth to the cultural phenomenon that is Hip Hop. With the help of LL COOL J, Ice T, field collectors Cipha Sounds and Yo-Yo along with Chief Museum Curator Paradise Gray and curator Pete Nice, some of these elusive items are brought back to the archive and will be put on display at The Universal Hip Hop Museum. The museum is poised to become “The Official Record of Hip Hop” and is currently in the process of building the world’s largest Hip Hop memorabilia collection. The permanent home of the Universal Hip Hop Museum will open to visitors worldwide in 2024.

Throughout the series, viewers will get a nostalgic look at the memorabilia, which is brought to life through personal stories from LL COOL J and Ice T along with unprecedented access to some of the

©2023 New York Lottery

biggest names in Hip Hop such as DMC (Run DMC), CeeLo Green, Flavor Flav, Fat Joe, Treach (Naughty by Nature,) Master P, Soulja Boy and many more. The series also features tributes to The Notorious B.I.G., DMX, Biz Markie and Coolio’s last on-camera appearance before his passing in 2022.

*Join the conversation by following @AETV

and using #HipHopTreasures* “Hip Hop Treasures” will be available and on demand to stream on the A&E app and aetv.com.

“Hip Hop Treasures” is produced by Pulse Films and Rock The Bells for A&E Network Executive Producers for Pulse Films are Erica Hanson, Tracey Baker-Simmons, Andrena Hale and Mira King Paradise Gray

and Pete Nice are Executive Producers

Serving as Executive Producers for A&E Network are Elaine Frontain Bryant, Shelly Tatro and Jonathan Partridge

A&E leads the cultural conversation through high-quality, original programming that captivates viewers and brings them to the heart of the stories that matter. Through its distinctive brand of award-winning nonfiction and documentary programming, A&E always makes entertainment an art. For more press information and photography, please visit us at press.aenetworks.com

Website: aetv.com | Twitter: @aetv | Facebook: aetv | Instagram: @aetv | TikTok: @aetv

Pulse Films is an award-winning studio that produces content irrespective of format or platform for audiences worldwide. Part of the Vice Media Group the production studio is dedicated to creating moments of culture and shaping the future of visual storytelling across its divisions of: Scripted, Non-Fiction, Commercials and Music Videos.

About Universal Hip Hop Museum

Anchored in the birthplace of Hip Hop culture, the Universal Hip Hop Museum broke ground in the Bronx in 2021. Built as a space for audiences, artists, and technology to converge and create unparalleled educational and entertainment experiences, the museum is slated to open in Bronx Point in 2024.  The UHHM will celebrate and preserve the history of local and global Hip Hop music and culture past, present, and future.

THE ARTS

RELAXING AND RECHARGING IN THE COMFORT OF YOUR HOME

-- By AMANDA MILLER

In today’s fast-paced world, it feels like we’re always on the go. With so many of us working long hours at the office, finding time to truly unwind and recharge is essential, both for your mental and physical wellbeing. The good news is you don’t have to step outside the front door to find relaxation. In fact, your abode can be a haven of tranquillity and provide all kinds of opportunities for you to enjoy some well-deserved downtime. Simply throw on some of your comfiest attire, take a deep breath, and let’s explore some relaxing activities you can partake in from home!

 GRAB A BOOK

One of the best ways to relax and recharge is reading. Simply pick up a book from your shelf and you’ll quickly be able to escape reality by immersing yourself in a captivating story. Whether you’re a lover of enchanting fantasy, romance, or a celebrity autobiography is more your thing, books have the ability to transport you to a different world and broaden your perspectives. All you need to do is find somewhere comfortable to curl up and you’ll soon lose yourself in the pages of a good book.

 GET PAINTING

For the creative heads, unleashing your creativity and engaging in artistic pursuits may be more to your liking. Sketching, drawing, or painting can be incredibly

therapeutic and give you an outlet to fully express your inner being. No one is saying you have to be a professional artist either. Instead, just let your imagination run wild and you’ll soon create a masterpiece on paper or a canvas.

 PLAY GAMES

Some people find playing games relaxing. Whether you whip out an old-school board game to play with the family or prefer playing digitally, games have the power to take your mind off day-to-day stresses. If you enjoy playing online casino games, Online Casino Review can help you find the best platforms to have the best experience possible. They rate and review the top providers so you can

be confident you find an online casino who have your best interests at heart. Whatever games you play on, just make sure you factor in breaks!

 HAVE A PAMPER

Too many of us don’t factor in time to truly pamper ourselves. It’s important to look after your body and allocate time for some TLC. Instead of forking out for a spa day somewhere else, why not bring all the pampering to your home? You can create a soothing ambience within seconds. Simply light some scented candles, put on soft music, and get the bath running with salts and essential oils. You can put on a face mask, do your skincare routine, and feel the tension melt away as you relax and rejuvenate.

 ENJOY THE MAGIC OF YOGA

Across South Africa, you’ll find plenty of yoga enthusiasts (and for good reason). Yoga combines mindfulness, physical movement, and deep breathing, making it the perfect activity for all things relaxation. Simply roll out a yoga mat, find an online tutorial to brush up on the basics, and start gently stretching your body. When you’re navigating through different poses, make sure to concentrate on your breath. Doing so allows any tension and stress to sift away, leaving you feeling centred and refreshed.

 COOK UP SOMETHING YUMMY

If you enjoy being in the kitchen and rustling

up something tasty, cooking is known as one of the most popular therapeutic and delightful activities to indulge in. Whether you stick to what you know or start experimenting with new recipes, engage your senses as you chop and savour the aromas that roam around your kitchen. Cooking can be a great way to learn new skills and of course, be left with something delicious to sink your teeth into at the end.

 CULTIVATE YOUR GREEN THUMB

If you’ve got outdoor space, why not step foot outside and indulge in a spot of gardening?

This is a wonderful activity that allows you to connect with nature while finding solace as you nurture living things. Pulling up weeds and planting flowers can quickly help you create a green oasis that you love spending time in. When the summer weather rolls in, you can get out in your garden space and soak up the rays.

If you have a jam-packed schedule, it’s safe to say life can quickly become overwhelming. Whenever you’re feeling stressed, remember that your home can be a sanctuary of relaxation. There are plenty of engaging activities you can immerse yourself in from the moment you walk through the front door. Whether a spot of cooking sparks your interest, or you want to do some exercise in the form of yoga, you’re bound to find a relaxing activity that helps bring your stress levels down and keeps your mental wellbeing in check.

Photo Credit: madison lavern via Unsplash

‘THE NEXT Black MILLIONAIRES’ SERIES PREMIERES

SheaMoisture is teaming up with The Roku Channel and MACRO Television Studios to debut “The Next Black Millionaires,” a docuseries that captures the journey of three ambitious entrepreneurs growing their passions into million-dollar businesses. The six-episode Roku Original docuseries, produced by MACRO Television Studios, invites viewers to meet the winners of the SheaMoisture Next Black Millionaires program:

 Dorian Morris, Undefined Beauty: With a purpose-driven mission to "undefine" the industry and democratize beauty, Dorian Morris launched Undefined Beauty, a beauty/wellness lifestyle brand focused on clean, conscious, inclusive plant magic. She is demystifying plant-powered solutions through an unapologetic, uncompromising, unfiltered approach to "clean-ical" skincare by pairing ancient plant wisdom with clinically proven activities that perform without breaking the bank. Visit www. undefinedco.com.

 LaToya Stirrup, KAZMALEJE: Tired of long wash days and excessive shedding while detangling, LaToya Stirrup and her two sisters decided it was time the world catered to their hair types. They took the idea of finger detangling and adapted it into their KAZMALEJE hair tools that became so popular they are now available in mass retail. Visit www.kazmaleje.com

 Neil Hudson, Scotch Boyz: Started by Neil Hudson and his three childhood friends, Scotch Boyz began at a BBQ competition in Jamaica. After winning, people kept on reaching out for more sauce, so they decided to start their own company. Scotch Boyz, a sauce and seasoning brand, brings the unique island flavors of Jamaica to you, no matter where in the world you may be. Learn more at @Scotchboyz on Instagram

The docuseries takes a deep dive into the entrepreneurs’ journeys as they overcome obstacles, navigate relationships, and scale their businesses, all while leaning on the community around them. All episodes will be available to stream on The Roku Channel starting Friday, July 7. The Roku Channel is easily accessible through Roku devices or TVs, online at TheRokuChannel.com, iOS and Android devices, Amazon Fire TVs, and select Samsung TVs.

“At SheaMoisture, we believe in purposeful beauty which is being accountable to those that we serve. This means that from the products we create to how we show up with purpose, our mission is underscored by the dedication we have to the Black community,” said Cara Sabin, CEO at SheaMoisture and CEO of Beauty & Wellbeing, Unilever North America. “We are thrilled to debut this docuseries because we get to highlight these three amazing entrepreneurs. We also get to shed light on what the path to a milliondollar business looks like, the power of intentional investment, and the nuances in the journey experienced by Black business owners.”

“It is an honor to partner with SheaMoisture and MARCO Television Studios to capture the inspiring stories of the savvy, driven, and exceptional entrepreneurs featured in ‘The Next Black Millionaires.’ The series encapsulates our commitment to elevating voices reflective of our diverse audience,” said Brian Tannenbaum, Head of Originals, Roku Media “‘The Next Black Millionaires’ demonstrates how Roku can work in unison with a great brand partner to not only produce standout content, but also harness the undisputed power of the platform to

bring that content to millions of streamers.”

Erika Bryant is the showrunner and an executive producer along with Stacey Walker King and Aisha Corpas Wynn for MACRO Television Studios; Richelieu Dennis of New Voices; and Cara Sabin, Simone Jordan, and Kelly Mullen for SheaMoisture and parent company Unilever

“We are thrilled to bring such an important project to life with our incredible and committed partners SheaMoisture and Roku,” said Stacey Walker King, Chief Brand Officer, MACRO and Executive Producer of the series. “We believe that the stories of these three talented founders will not only illuminate the entrepreneurial journey that is so often hidden behind the scenes, but will also encourage and inspire a new generation of business owners and leaders.”

“It was such a privilege and honor to serve

that beginning on July 9, Target will carry top products from each winner’s brand at 600 locations nationwide and online at Target.com. The products will be featured in Next Black Millionaires-branded displays, providing critical distribution and exposure that will allow these entrepreneurs the ability to expand and scale their businesses. Beyond the Next Black Millionaires program, SheaMoisture has a longstanding commitment to investing in the Black community and creating Black generational wealth. When Unilever acquired Sundial Brands, the parent company of SheaMoisture, in 2017, the New Voices Fund was created and initiated with funding from Unilever and Sundial’s founder, Richelieu Dennis The Fund invests in entrepreneurs of color and the initial Fund 1 investment has led to the creation of 18 millionaires, defined by New Voices as the fair market value of ownership interests in their businesses.

live their healthiest, most beautiful lives. Shea butter is one of the brand’s core ingredients, praised for its hydrating and nourishing properties, and sourced from women-led cooperatives in West Africa, providing fair wages and creating economic opportunities. The company offers products in the hair care, bath, body, skin care, baby and men’s categories, and is distributed in retailers throughout the world. SheaMoisture is a subsidiary of Unilever Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

 About Roku

Roku pioneered streaming on TV. We connect users to the content they love, enable content publishers to build and monetize large audiences, and provide advertisers with unique capabilities to engage consumers. Roku TV™ models, Roku streaming players, and TV-related audio devices are available in various countries around the world through direct retail sales and/or licensing arrangements with TV OEM brands. Roku-branded TVs and Roku Smart Home products are sold exclusively in the United States. Roku also operates The Roku Channel, the home of free and premium entertainment with exclusive access to Roku Originals. The Roku Channel is available in the United States, Canada, Mexico, and the United Kingdom. Roku is headquartered in San Jose, Calif., U.S.A.

Roku is a registered trademark of Roku, Inc. in the U.S. and in other countries. Trade names, trademarks, and service marks of other companies appearing in this press release are the property of their respective holders.

as showrunner and executive producer of such a groundbreaking series that highlights these dynamic entrepreneurs as they navigate growing their respective businesses,” said Erika Bryant, Show Runner and Executive Producer, MACRO “Along with my team of producers, I am thrilled to have played an integral part in sharing their journeys with the world and excited for their innovative brands to become household names.”

The Next Black Millionaires program was created by SheaMoisture, in partnership with the New Voices Foundation, in 2021 with an ambition to provide Black entrepreneurs with funding, retail distribution consulting, mentoring and executive coaching, access to an investment pipeline, and more—all to support these entrepreneurs in their journey growing million-dollar businesses.

“The New Voices Foundation is a groundbreaking, community-building effort that is building a more inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem for women of color to advance their significant contributions to our economy and society. We are proud to continue our partnership with The Next Black Millionaires program and share how we’re future-proofing our entrepreneur community through purpose, access, capital and expertise as well as leadership development, skill-building, and networking opportunities,” says

Richelieu Dennis, Founder, Executive Chair & Head Intern of Sundial Group, CEO of Essence Ventures, NewVoicesFamily, and GroupBlack

SheaMoisture is also proud to announce

Ahead of the series launch, SheaMoisture and Roku will host a screening of “The Next Black Millionaires” at the brand’s “A Great Day in Harlem” pop-up activation hosted during the Essence Festival of Culture on Saturday, July 1 in New Orleans, La. Launched in 2017, The Roku Channel is the home of free and premium entertainment on the Roku platform. In Q4 2022, The Roku Channel reached U.S. households with an estimated 100 million people. The Roku Channel was a top 5 channel on the Roku platform by active account reach and streaming hour engagement in Q1 2023. Today, The Roku Channel features a diverse lineup of more than 80,000 free movies and programs and more than 350 free live linear television channels in the U.S. It licenses and distributes content from more than 250 partners.

SheaMoisture is a global beauty and personal care leader committed to serving the Black community through strategic investment and community give back. SheaMoisture recognizes the power of entrepreneurship in addressing racial inequality with the belief that commerce can bring true economic independence. Every year SheaMoisture reinvests at least 1% of net sales directly into economic opportunities for underserved entrepreneurs and Black business owners. With every purchase, you’re helping to fund investments that support funding for Black-owned business, entrepreneurial education, crisis response, equitable purchasing, and ethical sourcing. SheaMoisture develops no compromise beauty products that help every member of the Black community

MACRO Television Studios is a division of MACRO, the multi-platform media company representing the voice and perspectives of Black people and people of color launched in 2015 by Founder & CEO Charles D. King MACRO Television Studios’ produced the critically-acclaimed Netflix series—The Children and Family Emmy Award nominated Raising Dion and the Peabody Award nominee Gentefied. The company’s multiple business verticals also include film (MACRO Film Studios) that finances, develops and produces theatrical and streaming features and premium television, a whollyowned talent, brand management and entertainment strategy firm (UNCMMN) and an in-house branding and creative agency (Brand MACRO). In addition, MACRO has a majority interest in the company’s joint venture—a full-service talent management firm (M88) and an affiliated venture firm (MaC Venture Capital). The company’s film projects have fifteen Oscar nominations and three wins. Go to https://www.staymacro. com/about for more information on the company.

New Voices Foundation is a groundbreaking, community-building effort designed to build a more inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem for women of color to advance their significant contributions to our economy and society. Driven by its PACE (Purpose.Access.Capital. Expertise.) model, New Voices offers women of color entrepreneurs access to capital, leadership development, skill-building, and networking opportunities via entrepreneurial summits, accelerators, bootcamps, pitch competitions, mentoring and coaching, and more. Subscribe to our newsletter at https:// newvoicesfoundation.org/newsletter/ to stay updated on all of our funding, learning, and networking opportunities for women of colorowned businesses.

Source: Roku

HEALTH & CULTURE

BLACK MENTAL HEALTH FOR WOMEN CAMPAIGN

Women Empowering Nations (WEN) and Cantu Beauty proudly announce the highly anticipated virtual event, Embrace Your Glow: Living a Soft Life, scheduled for July 29th, 2023, at 11 am EST. This groundbreaking initiative goes beyond surface appearances, focusing on holistic mental wellness and self-care. As July marks Black Mental Health Month, Embrace Your Glow presents a pivotal opportunity to spark meaningful conversations, raise awareness, and provide vital resources to address mental health challenges faced by the Black community on a global scale.

By leveraging their unwavering commitment to empowering girls and women, WEN and Cantu Beauty have joined forces to create a transformative platform that promotes holistic self-care and nurtures the mental well-being of young women on their leadership journey. A testament to this collaboration's impact is the Girls Leading Our World (GLOW) Global Cohort, which has already positively influenced the lives of 100 girls within its 2022 and 2023 cohorts.

Furthermore, the GLOW Global Summit has reached over 5,000 girls in more than 20 countries, equipping them with leadership development training, valuable resources, and a profound sense of inspiration to effect positive change in their personal and professional lives.

The GLOW Global Cohort, spanning multiple countries, has provided 878 hours of training and development to young women worldwide. As a result, participants have experienced significant positive shifts in various aspects of their career journeys, laying a strong foundation for their future success.

Notably, the program data highlights the tangible impact of the cohort's focus on providing network opportunities, which are often limited for women of color, especially Black women. At the program's outset, only 13% of participants agreed that they had a robust professional network to support them on their career path. However, through the program, this percentage skyrocketed to 75% of girls agreeing. The GLOW Global Cohort successfully bridges this gap,

equipping participants with a valuable support system to navigate and advance in executive leadership.

Reflecting on her experience, Alina Wilson, United States cohort member, shared, "In the cohort, we focused on bringing in the unique aspects of our Blackness and our culture to enhance our leadership, rather than shaping ourselves into a mold. It has been really lovely to get to be part of a cohort of leaders who are committed to being authentic in their leadership and identity."

Embrace Your Glow serves as the culmination of the GLOW Global Cohort as these empowered girls, aged 17-23, step forward to share their personal stories, raise their voices, and empower their peers to prioritize their mental health. On this day, WEN and Cantu Beauty, along with their dedicated partners and participants, will host a global panel of Black women mental health experts who will delve into strategies for holistic care, providing participants with valuable insights and tools for nurturing mental well-being. The event will conclude with an interactive Kemetic yoga session led by Angie Franklin, CEO and Founder of Afro Yoga

Leading up to “Embrace Your Glow,” WEN, Cantu Beauty, and GLOW Global cohort members will also host in-person events in major cities worldwide, fostering local conversations about Black mental health and well-being, and building excitement and awareness for the July 29th virtual event. To join the virtual session on July 29th, individuals can register at www.wenations. org, where they can find more information about “Embrace Your Glow,” the GLOW Global Cohort, and the remarkable work of Women Empowering Nations and Cantu Beauty

Carlisha Williams Bradley, Founder of WEN, stated, "We believe in promoting and cultivating holistic care for the next generation of executive leaders through our personal and professional development programming. Mental well-being is an essential element on this journey." Looking to the future, Women Empowering Nations is committed to expanding its global

reach and impact, fostering community engagement and connections through scaling its programs. They invite individuals, organizations, and communities to join them on this transformative journey, creating a

and platforms for women to develop their leadership skills, build networks, and create positive change within their communities.

Cantu Beauty is a leading multicultural haircare brand that celebrates natural hair and

world where Black mental health is valued, celebrated, and nurtured. Together, let's celebrate the power and beauty of the soft life and empower young Black women to embrace their unique glow.

Women Empowering Nations is a global organization dedicated to empowering women and girls worldwide through education, mentorship, and communitybased initiatives. WEN provides resources

advocates for self-expression, individuality, and confidence. With a range of innovative and nourishing products, Cantu Beauty is committed to empowering women of all backgrounds to embrace their unique beauty.

Carlisha Williams Bradley is available for interviews. Media must be approved to attend any of our in-person events nationwide.

MYAVANA PRESENTS HAIR DOCUSERIES

"The Hair That Bonds Us" is a cultural conversation and captivating docuseries that delves into the extraordinary journey of the pioneering company, MYAVANA, and its revolutionary mission to transform the multi-

has had on the textured hair care market. In the first episode, titled "Myavana Takeover," the spotlight shines on the visionary Founder and CEO of Myavana, as well as her dedicated team, as they

by harnessing the power of science and technology.

With a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by black women when it comes to hair care, Myavana aims to revolutionize the industry by introducing innovative solutions backed by rigorous scientific research. Their mission is to provide luxurious, effective, and personalized hair care products and services that cater specifically to the needs of textured hair. Episode 1 offers a glimpse into the determination, creativity, and unwavering commitment of the Myavana team as they navigate the complexities of the industry. Viewers witness their relentless pursuit of excellence and their passion for empowering black women to embrace their natural hair, while also promoting health and selfconfidence.

The docuseries sparks a much-needed conversation about the intersection of technology, entrepreneurship, and the empowerment of black women in the world of beauty.

As the series unfolds, viewers are taken on a captivating journey that explores the cutting-edge science, the groundbreaking technology, and the luxurious experiences that Myavana brings to the textured hair care market. Each episode delves deeper into the transformative impact the company has on the lives of countless women, ultimately leading to a greater understanding of the cultural, societal, and economic implications of this innovative approach to hair care.

billion textured hair care through science and technology. This thought-provoking series takes viewers behind the scenes to explore the company's inception, cultural significance, and the transformative impact it

takeover the International Beauty Show (IBS) through the Powerhouse Pavillion

The episode unravels their ambitious quest to disrupt the personal and professional textured hair care industry

Through compelling interviews, behind-thescenes footage, and engaging storytelling, "The Hair That Bonds Us" captivates audiences by shedding light on the cultural significance of textured hair and the transformative power of Myavana's vision.

"The Hair That Bonds Us" is a compelling docuseries that illuminates the triumphs, challenges, and untold stories behind the founding of Myavana. It celebrates the beauty, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit of black women in tech while providing a platform for necessary dialogue and change within the beauty industry.

Photo Source: Black PR Wire

IDRIS ELBA LAUNCHES MARKETING BUSINESS ‘ SILLYFACE ’

Actor, filmmaker and musician, Idris Elba, and Marc Boyan, founder of Miroma Group, one of the largest independent marketing groups in the world, today announced the launch of their new international business venture, SillyFace A global marketing and content business, SillyFace aims to unearth new storytellers and reinvigorate creativity and fun in brand marketing through ideation, creation and distribution of both long and short form content.

There is a growing sense of ‘purposefatigue’ amongst consumers, according to research by GfK¹, making it more difficult for brands to gain and hold the attention of their targeted audiences. With this backdrop, brands need to adopt new approaches to garner attention from consumers.

“On a daily basis, I work alongside global brands who are struggling to understand the intersection between modern cultural trends, brand identity and its consumer base. It is creating apprehension and hindering creative storytelling,” said Marc Boyan, Founder and CEO of Miroma Group “SillyFace has been created to lean into culture and new global trends, offering a fun environment to get creative rather than be afraid. Idris and I are both from underrepresented backgrounds and we see the world a little differently. We’re aiming to bring our thinking to brands to give people a voice and share stories that resonate with the consumer, whilst keeping the brand safe from criticism.”

Idris Elba added: “I’m at my creative best when I am relaxed, not anxious or considering all the ‘what ifs’. However, this isn’t always the atmosphere that creatives are faced with when brand building. SillyFace is here to bring back that feeling of creative excellence.

“We want more voices, more views and open, mutually respected ideation. This new venture will give me the ability to create powerful marketing campaigns. Campaigns that will truly resonate and engage with the people I want to connect

with. It will also allow me to share my knowledge and experience with other brands and co-create campaigns we’re all proud of. This is just the start for us. I can’t wait to get started.” he added.

Born in response to demand for a new approach by marketers and consumers, SillyFace will bring together a team of global, creative marketers

Margot Hauer-King, as Chief Client and Revenue Officer, who joins from Beentheredonethat and was previously at WPP. Both will be based in New York.   Possessing an extensive understanding of Gen-Z and millennial demographics that many brands are hoping to serve and connect with, SillyFace will specialise in creative ideation, content creation and distribution; helping clients

most recently developing a new wellbeing brand, S’ABLE with his wife Sabrina Elba Elba has consistently been involved with projects that are both purpose oriented and move at the speed of culture and wants to bring this expertise to brands around the world.  Miroma Group also has its own deep ties to modern culture through its network of businesses that create cutting edge

and content creators – under the expert guidance of Elba and Boyan –all with a different perspectives and backgrounds, to ensure they add the excitement back into brand building. The first new hires for SillyFace include Rahul Chopra as Chief Strategy Officer, Miroma Group, who recently joined from Instagram where he was Director, Reels and Camera, and was previously at Facebook app and Snap Inc in senior roles. SillyFace also welcomes

deliver authentic campaigns with cultural value.

As a staple in popular culture through his SAG and Golden-Globe winning work as an actor, as well as his work as a producer, director and musician, Elba has a great understanding of the fashion and lifestyle industry, and experience in the brand building process, having worked to build campaigns with international brands such as Gucci, Christian Louboutin and Tanqueray and

sports, music, fashion and entertainment campaigns and stories for brands including Spotify, Adidas and Netflix, as well as its history as an early investor in SB.TV, founded by the late Jamal Edwards MBE, and unearthed talents including Ed Sheeran SillyFace will operate as part of Miroma Group on a global scale, with the first three offices opening in London, New York and Los Angeles in 2023.

Source: Miroma Group

100 BLACK MEN OF EASTERN NY ADDRESS COMMUNITY ISSUES

The 100 Black Men of Eastern New York, Inc. is affectionately known as “The Organization That Makes A Difference” is making a substantial difference in Downstate, New York. The 100 Black Men of Eastern New York, Inc. covers Long Island, Queens, Brooklyn and slices of the Bronx and Staten Island, is the latest addition to 100 Black Men of America, a national association with more than 100 chapters.

The mission of the 100 Black Men of Eastern New York is to serve the African American community in Eastern New York in the areas of Education, Health and Wellness, Advocacy, Mentoring, community Development, Leadership Development and Economic Empowerment.

The 100 Black Men of Eastern New York, Inc. was formed to address the current issues of our day in our community, and to build upon the illustrious foundation of the men who

paved the way for a more just, and equitable society.  The “100” advocates for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in all aspects of society.

The founders of 100 Black Men of Eastern New York, Inc. have a long and lengthy history of service and commitment to downstate, New York.

Our goal is to bring together a variety of men from diverse backgrounds who are committed to the community and have exemplified excellence in their prospective spheres of influence. It is our desire to impact our community in a positive manner and change the narrative by creating greater success.

Together we will bring to bear every ounce of our ability to have a positive impact on our problems, challenges, and opportunities, and provide viable solutions. Phil Andrews, Founding President - 100 Black Men of Eastern New York, Inc.

ABOUT : Founding President - The

Founding President of the 100 Black Men of Eastern New York, Inc. has appeared on WABC Here and Now, NBC’s Positively Black, and was featured in Black Enterprise Magazine as a BE Modern Man. He has served as a Past President of a local chapter of 100

Black Men of America, Inc. as a twoterm president. Mr. Andrews is President of the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce New York State’s largest African American Chamber of Commerce.

President-Emeritus of the Black Public Relations Society-New York Inc. (BPRS-NY) which is New York’s Premier organization for Image Makers and Strategists in Public Relations. In addition, Mr. Andrews is the Founding President of the African American Small Business Foundation, Inc. Phil has received many proclamations from notable political officials including offices from New York State Assembly, Nassau and Suffolk County Executives, Long Island Mayors, Senators, NYC Elected Officials and a variety of other elected offices.

The 100 Black Men of Eastern New York, Inc. 501c3 Non-for-Profit organization is membership-based.

STELLAR GOSPEL MUSIC AWARDS NOMINATIONS ANNOUNCED

Central City Productions today announced the nominees in 25 categories for the 38th Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards taping on Saturday, July 15, returning to the Las Vegas Orleans Arena. The

38th edition of the Stellar Awards will premiere on the newly-launched Stellar TV between Monday, July 24 and August 6, 2023, as well as air in national broadcast syndication from August 7 through

September 10, 2023. Gospel music’s most epic celebration is co-hosted this year by Gospel superstars and multiple Stellar Award winners Tasha Cobbs-Leonard and Jonathan McReynolds, who returns to share co-hosting duties for the 2nd year.

Don Jackson, Founder of the Stellar Awards and Chairman of Central City Productions, Inc. commented, “I am elated to celebrate this landmark 38th year of the Stellar Gospel Music Awards and its premiere on our very own newly-launched Stellar TV network. Our flagship show is one of the longest-running nationally televised African American awards programs in history – we couldn’t be more proud to bring this new inspirational

Single or Performance of the Year for his work on “All Things New” (Motown Gospel). In addition, the project received a nomination for Recorded Music Packaging of the Year

Always appreciating a great musical collaboration, Stellar Awards voters recognized Maverick City Music x Kirk Franklin with six nominations for keeping the praise party elevated on their project “Kingdom Book One” (Tribl Records/Fo Yo Soul Recordings/RCA Inspiration), nominated in the categories of Artist of the Year, Contemporary Duo/Chorus Group of the Year, Song of the Year, Producer of the Year, Urban/Inspirational Single or Performance of the Year and Contemporary

network to viewers, while honoring the work of Gospel music artists and industry professionals who use their gifts to lift the spirits of many during troubling times. We look forward to another spectacular weekend of family-friendly entertainment in Las Vegas.”

Eleven-time Stellar Award winner Pastor Mike, Jr. leads the field of nominees this year with ten nominations. The trailblazing Gospel artist earned recognition this year for his work on the album “Winning” (Blacksmoke Music Worldwide), in the key categories of Artist of the Year, Song of the Year, Album of the Year, Producer of the Year, Male Artist of the Year, Contemporary Male Artist of the Year, Urban Inspirational Single or Performance of the Year, Rap/Hip Hop Song of the Year, Music Video of the Year and Contemporary Album of the Year

With nine nominations, ground-breaking Gospel artist Tye Tribbett is being recognized by the voting body for excellence in the categories of Artist of the Year, Song of the Year, Male Artist of the Year, Album of the Year, Producer of the Year, Contemporary Male Artist of the Year, Contemporary Album of the Year, Rap/Hip Hop Song of the Year, Urban/Inspirational

Album of the Year

Stellar Awards 2023 co-host and fifteen-time winner Tasha CobbsLeonard continues to bless audiences with her gift and is rewarded this year with five nominations for her work on “Hymns” (TeeLee Records/Motown Gospel), including Artist of the Year, Albertina Walker Female Artist of the Year, Contemporary Female Artist of the Year, Praise and Worship Song of the Year, and Praise and Worship Album of the Year. Also earning five nominations each are Zacardi Cortez for his work on “Imprint” (Blacksmoke Music Worldwide), and DOE, nominated for the first time as a solo artist for her work on the album “Clarity” (Life Room Label/RCA Inspiration). DOE is going head-to-head with Cobbs-Leonard, Maranda Curtis, and legends CeCe Winans and Tamela Mann in the prestigious Albertina Walker Female Artist of the Year category. Mann, a sixteentime Stellar Award winner, is nominated this year in four total categories for her project “Overcomer Deluxe” (Tillymann Music Group), including Album of the Year, Contemporary Album of the Year and Contemporary Female Artist of the Year

“ The audience is in  ROCK & ROLL HEAVEN!”

– New York Stage Review

8 kids a day are accidentally killed or injured by FAMILY FIRE.

FAMILY FIRE is a shooting involving an improperly stored gun, often found in the home.

ENDFAMILYFIRE.org