Black Excellence Celebrated at Annual Image Awards

Shown are winners l-r Akia Uwanda (Music Excellence Award), Patricia McClendon, Dr. (Innovator Award), Catherine Barnes (Education Excellence Award), Hannah Hall (Risign Star Award), Carolyn Brown-Spooner (Pinnacle Award), Dr. Shaun Powell (The One to Watch Award), Eugene White, III, (Trailblazer Award) and Dwight Brisbane (Be the Change, Be Yourself Award).
The 2023 Jacksonville Image Awards kicked off Black History Month at the Wilson Center for the Arts on the Florida State College at Jacksonville’s South Campus. The event featured a gold-carpet arrival, photo shoot and a cocktail hour with musical performances from Meachum L. Clarke & Company. Following the gala presentation, the evening culminating into an awards after-party. The community recognition program is hosted by broadcast station WJXT anchor couple Tarik Minor and Melanie Lawson.
The station partnered with The Porter Firm in its fourth year to recognize outstanding achievements in the local African American community. Awards were given out to one of three finalists in the following categories:  Trailblazer, One to Watch, Rising Star, Be the Change, Be Yourself, Music Excellence, Innovator, Education Excellence and the Pinnacle Award.
The winner is chosen by the public.
The Image Awards returned to February to help kick off Black History Month.  “We felt it was important to usher in Black History Month with an event that shines light on the great work being done in our local communities.  The gala is a special night that not only celebrates those works, but also inspires others to their gifts and talents,” said station Vice President and General Manager, Terri Walton.
Created to herald the accomplishments of black humanitarians who have succeeded against immense odds, special recognition is given to the few, representing the many who have overcome adversity. “I was raised to try and make a difference in everything I do,” said honoree Dwight Brisbane. “It is an honor to be recognized for something my parents instilled in me,” he said.

Be the first to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.


*


* Copy This Password *

* Type Or Paste Password Here *