Events
NICCO ANNAN AND TS MADISON TO HOST 11TH ANNUAL BETTER BROTHERS LOS ANGELES TRUTH AWARDS
CA (February 21, 2025) – In a powerful celebration of resilience and truth-telling, Better Brothers Los Angeles (BBLA) and The DIVA Foundation, founded by the remarkable Sheryl Lee Ralph Abbott Elementary, proudly unveil the hosts and honorees for the 11th Annual Truth Awards powered by ViiV. The iconic Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills will serve as the backdrop for this celebration of Black Queer Excellence on Saturday, March 15th, 5:30 PM to 11:00 PM. Guests will be inspired, uplifted, and reminded of the Black LGBTQ+ community’s impact on popular culture, politics, and the Arts.
This year’s celebration will be hosted by esteemed figures Nicco Annan and Ts Madison. Nicco Annan is an accomplished actor, dancer, and choreographer widely recognized for his iconic portrayal of Uncle Clifford in the television series P-Valley. Ts Madison is a prominent reality television personality, actress, and advocate for the LGBT community. She gained significant recognition as the first Black transgender woman to star in and serve as an executive producer for her reality series, The TS MadisonExperience.
“This isn’t merely an awards ceremony; it’s a testament to courage,” shared V. Scott Hamilton, Co-Founder and Program Director of Better Brothers Los Angeles (BBLA). “Each person we honor stands as a beacon against darkness – a bold stance amid anti-LGBTQ legislation, violence, and vitriol.”
“I am delighted to co-host the Truth Awards this year alongside my sister, TS Madison. This event holds special significance as we come together to honor and celebrate the rich, enduring spirit of the Black community. Recognizing and uplifting those who mirror our identities and experiences has never been more crucial. Our community has shown remarkable resilience and an innovative spirit, making it vital to acknowledge and honor these contributions. I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for the fantastic work that Better Brothers LA is doing to elevate and amplify the visibility and voices of the Black Queer community. Their efforts are pivotal in ensuring that our stories are told and celebrated” — Nicco Annan, P-Valley
This year’s roster proudly highlights an exceptional group whose remarkable contributions have significantly impacted various fields and communities. Among those honored is Gil Robertson, receiving the prestigious Media & Arts Award. As the Founder and President of the African American Film Critics Association (AAFCA), Robertson has been pivotal in amplifying Black voices within the cinematic landscape. His tireless advocacy for representation champions diversity in storytelling and actively supports the cultivation of the next generation of filmmakers and critics, ensuring that a wide array of perspectives is represented in film.
In another noteworthy recognition, Dr. Kimberly Smith is being awarded the esteemed History Maker Award for her groundbreaking contributions to the healthcare sector. Dr. Smith’s innovative research has focused on improving health outcomes, particularly in marginalized and underserved communities. Her dedication to transforming patient care practices has led to significant advancements in healthcare policies and services, reflecting her commitment to equity and access for all individuals.
Additionally, Dr. Leo Moore has been honored with the Bayard Rustin Advocacy Award, celebrating his unique and impactful approach to health advocacy. Dr. Moore’s efforts in promoting health equity and accessibility have inspired widespread community action. By engaging local populations and raising awareness about vital health resources, he has become a powerful advocate for ensuring that essential health services are available to everyone, regardless of socioeconomic status.
The night will also feature trailblazers such as style innovator Larry Sims, who will receive the Business Leadership Award for outstanding contributions to the fashion industry. Sims is known for blending creativity with business acumen, shaping trends, and redefining what it means to be a style leader.
Moreover, Brittani Nichols, one of the brilliant creative minds behind the critically acclaimed series Abbott Elementary, will be celebrated as a Breakout Star. Nichols’ work entertains and addresses fundamental issues within the education system, making her a vital voice in the industry.
Lastly, the Andre Leon Talley Style Purveyor Award will honor the contributions of Wayman Bannerman and Micah McDonald, who have significantly impacted lifestyle and fashion. Their innovative perspectives and dedication to uplifting others in the industry exemplify the spirit of creativity and influence that this award seeks to recognize.
These remarkable honorees truly embody the essence of transcending boundaries and breaking new ground,” stated Sheryl Lee Ralph, Founder of The DIVA Foundation. “By recognizing and celebrating their invaluable contributions, we honor their individual achievements and enhance our shared narrative—a powerful reminder that truth, no matter how challenging, cannot be silenced or overlooked. Their stories inspire us all to stand together to pursue justice and equality.
“At ViiV Healthcare, we believe in the power of community and the importance of breaking down barriers. That’s why we’re honored to be a presenting sponsor of the Truth Awards,” said Randevyn Pierre, ViiV’s head of national field engagement in external affairs. “This event aligns perfectly with ViiV’s commitment to fostering new ideas and empowering communities to progress in HIV prevention, treatment, and care. Only by working together will we be able to end the HIV epidemic.”
Before Saturday’s grandeur, the third annual Passing the Torch Awards will occur at The Aster on Friday evening. This event highlights the achievements of the next generation and emphasizes empowerment through leadership across various fields. Activist Amber Whittington and attorney Preston Mitchum will receive the Barbara Jordan Civic Leadership Awards. Meanwhile, Terrell Grice’sgroundbreaking online innovation earned him the title of Social Media Influencer. Emmy award-winning powerhouse James Bland II will receive the Passing the Torch Award for writing, producer, and director achievements.
“As a past honoree, I am deeply honored to co-host The Truth Awards, a night dedicated to celebrating the brilliance, resilience, and contributions of the Black LGBTQ+ community. This event recognizes those who have made a lasting impact in culture, politics, and the arts and invests in the future by providing scholarships to LGBTQ+ youth. Better Brothers Los Angeles has created a powerful space to connect, uplift, and thrive together. I’m proud to stand with this incredible organization in championing excellence, unity, and progress.” — TS Madison, TV & Media Personality
The Truth Awards have evolved into a vibrant celebration of the remarkable accomplishments of LGBTQ+ African-Americans and their allies, who have made historic strides in reshaping the perception and image of the Black LGBTQ+ community. Better Brothers Los Angeles (BBLA) shines a spotlight on those whose personal and professional journeys exemplify authentic living and thriving.
As we honor the remarkable achievements of these individuals, the 11th Annual Truth Awards invites guests to create a lasting impact. BBLA remains dedicated to uplifting the educational aspirations of the Black LGBTQ+ community through its scholarship program. During the Truth Awards ceremony, scholarships ranging from $3,000 to $5,000 will be awarded to deserving scholars. Since its inception, BBLA has proudly provided over $300,000 in tuition assistance, paving the way for a brighter future for all.
Better Brothers Los Angeles and The DIVA Foundation are honored to present the Truth Awards, a shining example of collective achievement made possible through the generous sponsorship of esteemed organizations and companies like ViiV, Gilead, Atlantic Health Systems, The Kettering Foundation, LeadersUp, and Sony Pictures Entertainment. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all sponsors for their invaluable support in making this impactful event a reality.
Additional honorees, performers, and presenters will be announced soon.
Tickets for this exclusive black-tie affair are now available at www.thetruthawards.com.
