Written By Lexx Thornton
The nationally syndicated Café Mocha show proudly celebrated a monumental milestone—the 15th Anniversary of Café Mocha and the Salute THEM Awards at the legendary Howard Theatre in Washington, DC. The 5-time Gracie Award-winning broadcast, known for bringing “radio from a woman’s perspective” to the airwaves, marked its Crystal Anniversary by honoring community and cultural excellence.
The Salute THEM Awards is an extension of the show’s award-winning Saluting Our Culture Tour, created to recognize both women and men who are moving the culture forward. Acclaimed writer, producer, and director Ryan Coogler received the inaugural HBCU First LOOK ‘”I Aspire” Global Impact Award presented in partnership with Howard University’s Chadwick A. Boseman College of Fine Arts. Receiving the “I Aspire” Award from the university that sparked his creative collaboration with the late Chadwick Boseman, an esteemed Howard University alumnus, held deep meaning for Coogler, which he expressed during his acceptance speech. Coogler and Boseman’s contributions to Black Panther set new industry standards for representation, while also becoming an emblem of cultural pride, ambition, and artistic excellence.
Actress, producer and entrepreneur Marsai Martin (Bridging The Gap Award), seminal award-winning actress Lynn Whitfield (Legend Award), Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett (Champion For Change Award), legendary Ben’s Chili Bowl co-founder Virginia Ali (Business Legacy Award), AARP EVP Edna Kane Williams (Corporate Trailblazer Award), philanthropist Angel Gregorio (Community Activist Award) and R&B star Kenny Lattimore (SWAG Award) were among the distinguished list of honorees.
The sold-out evening of inspiration was hosted by hip hop icon Yo-Yo, TV producer Jawn Murray, and Café Mocha TV host Laila Muhammad with tribute performances from the incomparable The String Queens, urban contemporary gospel’s Anthony Brown, and award-winning actor and singer Keith D. Robinson. Produced by a team of proud HBCU alumni, the Salute THEM Awards also kicked off the 3rd Annual HBCU First LOOK Film Festival (HBCUFLF) at Howard University in Washington, DC, November 7-8, 2025.
The Salute THEM Awards is an annual fundraiser for the Mocha Cares Foundation, which not only supports women and children impacted by domestic violence but also creates mentorship programs for HBCU students. Thanks to sponsor partners AARP, OCTFME, ESPN, TV One/Cleotv, HBCYOU, Andscape HBCUgo.tv, iHeartMedia – Black Information Network, Howard University Television + Film, Howard University Television (WHUT), and Howard University Radio Network, SiriusXM Channel 141 & 142 for their continued support.
