The 4th Annual Gatsby Showcase Foundation Awards Gala Honors Changemakers, Offers Call to Action

based on coverage published by Micha Green | Washington Informer

The 4th Annual Gatsby Showcase Foundation Awards Gala brought together dozens of changemakers and leaders on Dec. 14 at the Organization of American States (OAS) in Northwest Washington, D.C., in an evening that blended celebration and purpose highlighting efforts toward equity in the arts, media, business, and social and political advocacy. “The Washington Informer

More than a glamorous affair of fashion and style, the gala served as a rallying cry to support Black businesses, promote community advancement, and address inequities that persist across American society. “The Washington Informer

Cathy Hughes, the founder and chairman of Radio One/Urban One and one of the evening’s honorees, offered a powerful message on responsibility and self-determination, urging Black Americans not to rely on others to change the narrative but instead to take collective action toward progress. “The Washington Informer

The evening included inspiring performances from Grammy-nominated singer Raheem DeVaughn, opera vocalist Aria Austin, and harpist Anna Elsworth, as well as runway shows from designers JL Michael’s Custom Clothiers and Jody Davis. Art by Reggie Gillumo added an expressive visual layer to the festivities. “The Washington Informer

Throughout the night, co-founders Dr. Bertrand Fote and Laura Fote the husband-and-wife team behind the Gatsby Showcase Foundation shared the impact of the organization’s work. They highlighted successes such as awarding 46 scholarships to students from marginalized communities, assisting businesses in reducing import costs to help them grow, and efforts to address disparities in healthcare access. “The Washington Informer

“We’ve seen the positive impact and the smiles that [the awards and our work] put on people’s faces especially the kids,” Laura Fote said, emphasizing the foundation’s focus on sustained community support.

In addition to Hughes, other honorees recognized for their contributions to equity and community advancement included: 

  • Cora Masters Barry, former D.C. first lady and founder and CEO of the Southeast Tennis and Learning Center

  • Ron Busby, president and CEO of U.S. Black Chambers Inc.

  • Melanie Campbell, resident and CEO of the National Coalition on Black Civic Participation

  • Thomas “Nephew Tommy” Miles, actor, comedian, producer, and co-host of the Steve Harvey Morning Show

  • Edie Fraser, chair and founder of the Women Business Collaborative

  • Christina Cherry, chair of Cherry Luxe Properties, LLC 

Busby told The Washington Informer that while it was an honor to be celebrated, the work of uplifting Black businesses and communities remains an ongoing mission one that requires focus every day, not just during highlight events. “The Washington Informer

The Fotes echoed that sentiment, reminding attendees that those who are fortunate have a responsibility to bless others and contribute positively to broader community progress. “Every single person can make a difference,” Dr. Fote said, encouraging collaboration and support for organizations committed to meaningful impact. “The Washington Informer

Read more:
👉 https://www.washingtoninformer.com/gatsby-awards-gala-equity/

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The 5th annual Gatsby Showcase Foundation Awards Gala was held Saturday evening at the Organization of American States (OAS) on 17th Street in Washington, D.C., honoring people who are making positive changes in their communities. WBFF

The event celebrated leaders whose work drives empowerment, economic advancement, and community impact across a range of sectors, from public service and media to entertainment and entrepreneurship. WBFF

The Gatsby Showcase Foundation’s mission is to empower historically marginalized groups to achieve economic independence by providing access to education, business development tools, quality healthcare, and a supportive global network. WBFF

The gala, held on Dec. 13, served both as a celebration of accomplishments and a fundraiser to support the foundation’s work in uplifting underserved communities both domestically and internationally. WBFF

Honorees

The following distinguished changemakers were honored at the gala: WBFF

  • D.C. Mayor Muriel E. Bowser

  • Reverend Al Sharpton, Civil and Human Rights Icon; Founder, National Action Network (NAN)

  • Armstrong Williams, Media Mogul and Award-Winning Journalist

  • Johnny Gill, Award-Winning Singer/Songwriter/Producer

  • LaToya Foster, Director, DC Office of Cable Television, Film, Music and Entertainment (OCTFME); and DC Film Commissioner

  • Paul J. Cohn, Entrepreneur and Iconic DC Restauranteur

  • Raymone K. Bain, “Keeper of the Famed,” Media Strategist and Public Relations Executive

  • H.E. Denis G. Antoine, Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Representing Grenada

  • Christine Francis, Philanthropist, and wife of the Grenadian Ambassador

  • Barrett LaRoda, International Entrepreneur and Entertainment Executive

The honorees represent leaders in government, civil rights, media, entertainment, and international advocacy, reflecting the diverse impact of the Gatsby Showcase Foundation’s work

Read more:
👉 https://foxbaltimore.com/news/local/gatsby-showcase-foundation-awards-gala-honors-changemakers-community

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