The 11th Annual Truth Awards, powered by ViiV, dazzled attendees as it celebrated the incredible strength and creativity of the Black LGBTQ+ community at the iconic Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills. This unforgettable evening brought together compassionate hearts and passionate spirits, showcasing the profound impact of this vibrant community on culture, politics, and the arts. With the dynamic leadership of Nicco Annan and Ts Madison, and in collaboration with The DIVA Foundation, guided by the brilliant Sheryl Lee Ralph, the event was a truly emotional journey that resonated with everyone present. If you missed the magic, don’t worry! The awards will stream exclusively on the KTLA+ app.
“This event transcends a typical awards ceremony,” shared V. Scott Hamilton, co-founder of Better Brothers LA. “It is a powerful reminder of resilience and creativity that echoes through every aspect of our shared culture.”
In a heartwarming gesture, BBLA proudly awarded $46,500 in scholarships to seven deserving students from California, Virginia, St. Louis, and Wisconsin. Although the remarkable Sheryl Lee Ralph could not join us, her generous $20,000 contribution symbolizes unwavering support for these aspiring scholars, igniting hope for their futures.
“Empowerment blooms when opportunity meets determination,” remarked Vincent Holmes, co-founder of Better Brothers LA, as he announced the scholarship recipients who will pursue their dreams at institutions like the University of Southern California, Mt. Saint Mary’s College, Full Sail University, and even studying abroad in Denmark.
This year’s honoree class shone a light on extraordinary individuals whose journeys inspire us all: Lee Daniels received the Lifetime Achievement Award; Dr. Kimberly Smith was recognized with the History Maker Award; Gil Robertson, the Media & Arts Award; Wendy Raquel Robinson, the Ally Award; Dr. Leo Moore, the Bayard Rustin Advocacy Award; Larry Sims, Business Leadership Award; Brittani Nichols, Breakout Star Award; and Wayman Bannerman + Micah McDonald, Andre Leon Talley Style Purveyor Award.
“Each honoree embodies the beauty of being authentically human,” expressed Sheryl Lee Ralph, Founder of The DIVA Foundation. “Their stories remind us that embracing our true selves can open doors to infinite possibilities.”
The Truth Awards beautifully celebrated talent, beginning with an uplifting performance by Grammy Award winner Iman Jordan. A touching tribute to Luther Vandross and a heartfelt segment honoring our fallen angels, led by the passionate Emi Secrest and Haile Sahar, filled the room with emotion. The evening continued to radiate joy with a moving performance by Grammy-nominated artist Tamar Braxton, culminating in an electrifying finale by hip-hop artist NLE Choppa.
This year’s celebration featured a lineup of remarkable celebrity presenters, including the talented Ava DuVernay, acclaimed director; Colman Domingo, known for his work in “Sing Sing”; and Tamar Braxton, beloved for “The Braxton’s.” The event also showcased familiar faces like Candiace Dillard Bassett from “The Real Housewives of Potomac,” Cynthia Bailey from “The Real Housewives of Atlanta,” Kareem Grimes and Bre-Z from “All American,” Dwen Curry and Greg Mathis Jr. from “Dwen Curry Story.”
Additional presenters who graced the stage included the distinguished beauty expert Damone Roberts, Terrell Carter, and Steven Norfleet from “Beauty in Black”; Kiki Haynes of “All the Queens Men”; and Bryan Terrell Clark from “Dariah in Detroit.”
The celebration welcomed numerous advocates and influencers, like Marquelle Turner-Gilchrist, a passionate civic engagement enthusiast; Tarnya Deloatch McPhatter-Rascoe, Area Vice President of HIV Community Engagement and Sales at ViiV Healthcare; and Randevyn Piérre, Head of National Field Engagement and External Affairs at ViiV Healthcare. The presence of Deondray and Quincy Gossfield from “The Chi,” Rodney Chester of “Noah’s Arc,” Jensen Atwood from “Family Business New Orleans,” and Jordan E. Cooper from “The Ms. Pat Show” enriched the event further.
The 11th Annual Truth Awards, co-presented by The DIVA Foundation, stands as a heartfelt collaboration of vision and purpose, with gratitude to our generous sponsors, including ViiV, Gilead, Atlantic Health Systems, County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath, The Kettering Foundation, Sony Pictures, LeadersUp, Starz, Walmart, Columbia University’s Institute for Research in African American Studies, and Elite Auto Source. Together, we celebrated the power of community and the courage to uplift one another.
To learn more about the Truth Awards please, visit www.thetruthawards.com.
