The New York Association of Black Journalists (NYABJ) proudly hosted its 4th Annual Juneteenth Gala and Awards, celebrating the power of storytelling and recognizing outstanding contributions to journalism and media. Under the theme “Bold Voices,” the evening was a vibrant tribute to those who amplify marginalized voices, inspire change, and uphold journalistic excellence. For a night of celebration, community, and culture, it brought together an incredible blend of media executives, journalists, and creators.
ABC News team members
CBS News staff light up the red carpet.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all who attended and made the event a memorable success. Your support continues to strengthen our mission of promoting diversity and inclusion in media.
Right On! Digital and Right On! Magazine were also in attendance, with CEO/Publisher Cynthia Horner as the recipient of NYABJ’s President’s Award, a moment that made the evening even more meaningful during celebratory night.
She discusses the award and what it means to her and the company.
“I am deeply honored to have received the President’s Award from Bonita Sostre. As the NYABJ Member At Large, I am committed to the mission and principles of the chapter and the National Association of Black Journalists. Journalism is in my DNA , and I have always held myself to the highest standards and will always stay true to the course. Last year, we won Professional Chapter of the Year, and I look forward to encouraging my colleagues and budding journalists to continue expressing their bold voices.”
To read more about her win, click here.
The evening was a celebration of fearless journalism, impactful storytelling, and unwavering commitment to diversity. We thank our awardees for their inspiring work and all attendees for their ongoing support.
Hosts Kay Angrum (NBC) and Vladimir Duthiers (CBS) kept the energy high, sharing plenty of laughs between segments.
Kay Angrum (NBC) and Vladimir Duthiers (CBS).
Other media moguls such as Perception Media’s photographer Bill Allen and wife Olivia were in attendance. Maurice DuBois, last year’s host, also made an appearance raising funds for NYABJ’s First Take Journalism program.
NYABJ Board Members Diane King Hall, Will Patterson, and Cynthia Horner applauded President Bonita Sostre as VP Bill Allen delivered a heartfelt tribute to her impactful leadership.
Special congratulations to NYABJ’s distinguished award winners:
Gwen Ifill Award for Excellence in News Reporting Long Form – 7 minutes:
“The CBS Evening News with Norah O’Donnell, Eye On America: Tracing Roots” — Adam Verdugo, James Brown, Alicia Hastey
Gwen Ifill Award for Excellence in Broadcast Journalism (Long form):
“America in Black: Black Wealth” — CBS News & BET News staff, Vladimir Duthiers
Stuart Scott Award for Excellence in Sports Journalism:
“COURAG3OUS: Aaliyah Gayle’s CWSA Inspiration Award” — James Decker, Mike Stypulkoski, Sean Brennan
Ida B. Wells Award for Excellence in Print Journalism for Features:
“Street Wars” — Dodai Stewart
Ida B. Wells Award for Excellence in Print Journalism (News):
“Truth About Hair Relaxers” — Linda Villarosa
Dyana Williams Award for Excellence in Podcast/Radio:
“The Goodness Factor with Shelley Wade Podcast” — Shelley Wade
Max Robinson Award for Excellence in Local TV Reporting:
“Here & Now with Sandra Bookman: Gun Violence Crisis, Breaking Dancing at the Paris Olympics” — Tracey R. Washington Bagley, Sandra Bookman, Jordan McIntosh
Ed Bradley Award for Excellence in Investigative Reporting:
“Women Suing Hair Relaxing Companies after Cancer Diagnoses as Companies Continue to Push Them in Africa” — Zinhle Essamuah, Senior Producer: Yasmine Salam — NBC News
Gordon Parks Award for Excellence in Visual Media:
“When Harlem Was ‘as Gay as It Was Black’” — Derrick Bryson Taylor, Scott Reinhard
Brownkind Luminary Award:
Robin Roberts
Here’s a link to the photo booth pictures/videos and if you didn’t get a chance donate to our high school journalism program please click here.
A special thank you to our sponsors:
- Brownkind
- Bifties
- Rich Nuts
- Aluminate Life
- Hask Beauty
- Epsom-it
- Spry
- Andrew Fitzsimons
- Cheribe Beauty
- Tea Forte
- The Doux
- Kazmaleje
- New England Sweetwater
- Maya Angelou: A Writers Journal
- Keranique
- BosleyMD
For more information about NYABJ and future events, please visit our website nyabj.org.
About NYABJ:
The New York Association of Black Journalists is dedicated to empowering Black journalists, promoting diversity in media, and amplifying the voices that shape our world.
Posted by Mahalia Saint-Eloi.
