African-American men, who have made significant contributions across various Memphis industries, were honored during the third annual Black Men Crowned Awards Show.
The event (Dec. 14) was held at The Kent event venue at North Front Street and Keel Avenue north of Downtown. It was hosted by radio personality Stan Bell and Memphis-born actress Elise Neal, who promised an elegant and intimate celebration of Black excellence.
“This award ceremony is devoted to empowering, uplifting, and celebrating Black men in various professions throughout the city of Memphis,” Bell said.
Neal concurred. “… The premise of this special night is to honor brothers whose pristine moral character exemplifies the power of human resolve, perseverance, and faith while navigating in the space of balancing their families, businesses, and communities,” Neal said.
Honorees were:
- Memphis Icon Award – Jointly awarded to Tyree Daniels, managing director at South State Duncan-Williams Incorporated, and attorney Henry E. Reaves III, founder and CEO of Reaves Law Firm.
- Humanitarian Award – Keshaun Pearson, president of the Memphis Community Against Pollution.
- Innovator of the Year Award – Dr. Reginald “Tony” Robinson Jr., director of pharmacy at Delta Specialty Hospital.
- Social Impact Award – Alton Cryer and Jeremy Calhoun, founders of S-T-S Enterprise Corporation.
- Grit Award – Lenard Chambers and Bernard Chambers Jr., founders of ‘The Genre.’
- Young King Award –DJ Allen, a graduating senior at Germantown High School and future Purdue University student. In a heartfelt moment, rapper NLE Choppa surprised Allen with a scholarship and offered inspiring words, emphasizing the importance of trusting one’s abilities in the journey of life.
- Education Achievement Award – Michael Scruggs, the site coordinator of AGAPE Child and Family Services.
- Coach of The Year – Raheem Shabazz.
- Health and Wellness Achievement Award – Dr. Fred Peete.
Justin Hart, a Grammy and NAACP Image award-winning producer and Memphis native, founded Black Men Crowned.
He expressed his motivation for creating the show, emphasizing the need to counter the negative portrayal of Black men in the media. Hart aimed to address the lack of positive news highlighting the successes of Black men in Memphis.
The evening exuded intimacy, featuring captivating live performances, a dynamic band, and a delectable three-course meal.
Memphis mayor-elect Paul Young, who will take office Jan. 1, added to the atmosphere, expressing gratitude to both Memphis and Black Men Crowned.
Young acknowledged their efforts in spotlighting the outstanding accomplishments of the honorees and their contributions to the city’s progress.
