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Voices of Hope: An Event in Celebration of Black Excellence

Voices of Hope: An Event in Celebration of Black Excellence

Gates: 5:45PM
Pre-Ceremony Celebration: 6PM
Ceremony: 7PM

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Voices of Hope: An Event in Celebration of Black Excellence returns to our stage on June 9, 2025! This annual event honors Philadelphia’s trailblazers who embody a culture of compassion and positive change. In 2025, Voices of Hope explores the theme "We Rise: Perseverance, Strength, and Determination." This year’s honorees embody these values, uplifting and guiding the Philadelphia community and beyond through their dedication and leadership.
 

This year, the Mann celebrates the following honorees:
 

Representative Jordan A. Harris

Representative Jordan A. Harris
186th District, Pennsylvania House of Representatives
 
 

Dr. Tony B. Watlington Sr.

Dr. Tony B. Watlington Sr.
Superintendent, The School District of Philadelphia
 
 

Rosalyn J. McPherson

Rosalyn J. McPherson
President & CEO, The ROZ Group, Inc
  

The Links Header

The Links, Incorporated
Philadelphia Chapter
Zakiya Black Barnett, President
Penn Towne Chapter
Kimberly Bridges-White, President
Delaware Valley Chapter
Renee Smith, President
 
 

Media personality and journalist Ashley Maclin, also known as ASHMAC, will host the ceremony. Dixie James, President, Central Region of Jefferson Health, will deliver the keynote speech. The evening will also feature various musical performances by Philadelphia-based artists, curated by hip-hop artist Chill Moody.
 

Complimentary light refreshments are available on a first-come, first-serve basis.
 
This event is free with registration. Register now
 

Register Now

Voice of Hope Sponsor Block


Voices of Hope is a free and open to the public, providing open access to music and inspiration. Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. Registration is required and does not guarantee entry.
 

Past Honorees

2024

Bernard Smalley, 2024 Innovation Award - Community Trailblazer

Twin Sister Docs, 2024 Innovation Award - Community Impact

Sulaiman W. Rahman, 2024 Innovation Award - Community Advancement

Honorable Cherelle L. Parker, Mayor of Philadelphia, 2024 Innovation Award - Community Advocacy

2023

Loree D. Jones Brown, 2023 Innovation Award - Community Impact

Pennsylvania State Senator Vincent J. Hughes, 2023 Innovation Award - Community Advocacy

Sharmain Matlock-Turner, 2023 Innovation Award - Community Advancement

Rev. Dr. Alyn E. Waller, 2023 Innovation Award - Inspirational Excellence

2022

Carol Riddick, 2022 Innovation Award - Artistic Excellence

Robert & Benjamin Bynum, 2022 Innovation Award - Culinary Excellence

Valarie Cofield, 2022 Innovation Award - Community Advancement

Leslie Smallwood-Lewis & Gregory Reaves, 2022 Innovation Award - Community Impact