4th Annual Gatsby Showcase Foundation Awards Gala Celebrates Changemakers and Inspires Action
based on coverage and imagery published by USBCnetworkThe 4th Annual Gatsby Showcase Foundation Awards Gala has established itself as one of the most anticipated events of the season in the Washington, D.C., area an elegant evening that celebrates community impact while inspiring actionable support for equity, economic empowerment, and generational progress. USBC Network
Held on December 14, 2024, at the Organization of the United States in Northwest Washington, D.C., the gala offered guests the opportunity to enjoy black-tie attire, runway fashion presentations, and recognition for leaders advancing equity and social change. USBC Network
More than just a celebration, the event served as a platform for action, emphasizing the importance of supporting Black-owned businesses, addressing inequities across sectors, and contributing to a brighter, more equitable future for all. USBC Network
“We cannot expect other people to solve our problems or lift us up, or change the narrative. That’s our responsibility,” said Cathy Hughes, founder and chairman of Radio One/Urban One and one of the evening’s honorees. In her acceptance speech, Hughes challenged attendees to consider empowerment not only within the United States but also through connection, collaboration, and support of communities in Africa a message aligned with the Gatsby Foundation’s mission.
A Party With a Purpose
The evening combined entertainment and advocacy, featuring performances by Grammy-nominated singer Raheem DeVaughn, opera vocalist Aria Austin, and harpist Anna Elsworth. In addition, runway shows from JL Michael’s Custom Clothiers and Jody Davis brought fashion artistry to the celebration, while artwork by Reggie Gillumo added a cultural dimension to the festivities. USBC Network
Funds raised during the gala support initiatives led by foundation co-founders Dr. Bertrand Fote and Laura Fote, including scholarship programs, business development assistance for Black-owned enterprises, and efforts to address healthcare disparities. “We’ve seen the positive impact and the smiles [our work] puts on people’s faces especially the kids,” said Laura Fote, reflecting on the year’s achievements. USBC Network
Dr. Fote, a physician, also spoke about the foundation’s work in narrowing disparities in healthcare access and education for underserved communities. USBC Network
Honoring Changemakers
The gala recognized a distinguished group of leaders dedicated to advancing equity and community impact: USBC Network
Cora Masters Barry, founder and CEO of the Southeast Tennis and Learning Center
Ron Busby, president and CEO of U.S. Black Chambers, Inc.
Melanie Campbell, president and CEO of the National Coalition on Black Civic Participation
Thomas “Nephew Tommy” Miles, actor, comedian, producer, and Steve Harvey Morning Show co-host
Edie Fraser, chair and founder of the Women Business Collaborative
Christina Cherry, chair of Cherry Luxe Properties, LLC USBC Network
Ron Busby expressed appreciation for the honor and urged attendees to support Black-owned businesses year-round, emphasizing that the work of building economic empowerment extends beyond one evening of recognition. USBC Network
A Call to Action
The Fotes, honorees, and attendees alike reinforced the importance of collective effort, encouraging supporters across the D.C., Maryland, and Virginia (DMV) region and beyond to take intentional action in uplifting communities through support, empowerment, and sustained collaboration. USBC Network
A Party With a Purpose
The evening combined entertainment and advocacy, featuring performances by Grammy-nominated singer Raheem DeVaughn, opera vocalist Aria Austin, and harpist Anna Elsworth. In addition, runway shows from JL Michael’s Custom Clothiers and Jody Davis brought fashion artistry to the celebration, while artwork by Reggie Gillumo added a cultural dimension to the festivities. USBC Network
Funds raised during the gala support initiatives led by foundation co-founders Dr. Bertrand Fote and Laura Fote, including scholarship programs, business development assistance for Black-owned enterprises, and efforts to address healthcare disparities. “We’ve seen the positive impact and the smiles [our work] puts on people’s faces especially the kids,” said Laura Fote, reflecting on the year’s achievements. USBC Network
Dr. Fote, a physician, also spoke about the foundation’s work in narrowing disparities in healthcare access and education for underserved communities. USBC Network
Honoring Changemakers
The gala recognized a distinguished group of leaders dedicated to advancing equity and community impact: USBC Network
Cora Masters Barry, founder and CEO of the Southeast Tennis and Learning Center
Ron Busby, president and CEO of U.S. Black Chambers, Inc.
Melanie Campbell, president and CEO of the National Coalition on Black Civic Participation
Thomas “Nephew Tommy” Miles, actor, comedian, producer, and Steve Harvey Morning Show co-host
Edie Fraser, chair and founder of the Women Business Collaborative
Christina Cherry, chair of Cherry Luxe Properties, LLC USBC Network
Ron Busby expressed appreciation for the honor and urged attendees to support Black-owned businesses year-round, emphasizing that the work of building economic empowerment extends beyond one evening of recognition. USBC Network
A Call to Action
The Fotes, honorees, and attendees alike reinforced the importance of collective effort, encouraging supporters across the D.C., Maryland, and Virginia (DMV) region and beyond to take intentional action in uplifting communities through support, empowerment, and sustained collaboration. USBC Network