Black Community Achievement Award Categories
Black History Manitoba (BHM)
Lifetime Achievement Award - Designed to recognize sustained, exceptional performance and/or significant contributions over an extended period above and beyond normal performance expectations.
Youth Award - To showcase the work of outstanding young people who are leading initiatives to further showcase the talents and skills of black youth here in Winnipeg. The award demonstrates to leaders and other policymakers the importance of young people’s role in development and achievement within any number of areas, such as skills training, arts and culture, environmental protection, education, health and well-being, human rights, technology, sports, and science. The awards also serve to inspire other black youth to take action in their communities.
Religious Award - Acknowledging those who demonstrate exemplary God-centered behavior through volunteer service to their church, school, and community. Recipients display a love and understanding of their faith and display their commitment, not only through acts of service, but by living a service-focused life. They share their God-given gifts and provide persuasive evidence of their faith through their contributions performed with humility and leadership.
Sports Award - This award will be given to an athlete or coach who has made a ‘difference’ to sport. It recognizes their commitment and contribution through their performance, leadership, and dedication to the sport. This award winner is highly valuable to her/his team; is excellent in all areas; always gives her/his best effort during practices and games; encourages others to play better; contributes to the team’s success; is well-respected by teammates, opponents, and all those involved in their field of sport.
Business and Profession Award: Recognizes a business that has made significant contributions to the economic health of the community, exemplifying excellence in performance, customer service, leadership, innovation, management, and marketing. It is widely respected throughout our city for its achievements and community engagement.
Wade “Kojo” Williams Sr. Human Rights Award - Awarded to an individual who honors his contributions to the removal of discriminatory/systemic barriers within the community. This individual consistently uses positive action to build awareness and knowledge and demonstrates support for all of Wade’s collaborative efforts to educate others towards building a respectful and inclusive Winnipeg, free from all forms of discrimination and racism. Who was Wade “Kojo” Williams Sr.? The Black History Month Celebration Committee (BHMCC) was founded by Wade “Kojo” Williams, Sr., in 1980 in Winnipeg to educate others about Black/African history. He was a trailblazer, a tireless grassroots community organizer, and a strong advocate who lobbied governments at all levels for changes in policies and legislation that negatively impacted ethnocultural communities. His passionate work has led to increased representation of minorities in the private and public sectors of Winnipeg.
Entertainment / Music Award- Awarded to a person or band for skill or distinction in their use of music and inspiration to others who listen to and hear their music. It can be awarded to the non-musical entertainer who delights and impresses clients and their guests. Open to Magicians, DJ Artists, Hypnotists, Dance Acts, School Student Council Presidents, and anyone/group that can entertain!
Community Service Award- Awarded to honor an individual or organization that is making significant contributions to their community through their time, talents, and dedication (outside any volunteer work done as an individual). This organization would demonstrate a real passion for helping others in their community.