We got some good news for you! Now, we all know that when it comes to celebrating Black excellence, you better come correct. And let me tell you, The Black Academy ain’t playing around this year. They’re rolling out the red carpet, dusting off the awards, and getting ready to honor two heavy hitters who have been putting in serious work for years: Kardinal Offishall and Weyni Mengesha.
So, check this out: on September 29, get yourself together, grab your snacks, and tune in to CBC or CBC Gem. Why? Because the 2024 Legacy Awards are going live, baby! Hosted by none other than Adrian Holmes, this 90 minute special is about to be one for the books. We got performances, tributes, and all kinds of love flowing for the best Black talent this country’s got to offer.
Now, let’s talk about the man, the myth, the legend Kardinal Offishall. If you ain’t heard of him, where you been?! This man has been putting Canadian hip hop on the map for decades. He’s the first rapper from the Great White North to top the Billboard Hot 100, worked with everybody from Rihanna to Drake, and now he’s making major moves as Global A&R at Def Jam. That’s right, he’s not just making hits, he’s creating stars. So, what’s he getting? The Icon Award, and believe me, it’s well-deserved.
Then we got Weyni Mengesha. Now, if you don’t know her, you better ask somebody! She’s the Artistic Director of Soulpepper Theatre, and she’s been changing the game on stages all over the world. From directing the smash hits Da Kink in My Hair and Kim’s Convenience to uplifting young Black artists in Canada, this woman is a force. The Trailblazer Award? Oh yeah, it’s got her name all over it.
But that’s not all, people! The Fan Choice Digital Content Creator Award is up for grabs, and this one’s all about you. That’s right, you get to decide who takes home the crown. The nominees are some of the hottest Black digital creators in the game right now: Access By Tay, Citron Rose, OT The OG, Queeny Kuffour, Ryan Holtz, and Toni Olaoye. Head on over to vote.blackacademy.ca and let your voice be heard!
Now, why are we doing all this? Simple. Because The Black Academy founded by brothers Shamier Anderson and Stephan James, is out here putting in the work to showcase Black excellence year-round. They ain’t just giving out awards, they’re building up the next generation of Black talent and breaking down barriers all over Canada. It’s about time, too.
So, mark your calendars, ‘cause on September 29, we’re celebrating. We’re shining a light on our heroes, our stars, and the folks who are paving the way for the future. And trust me, you don’t wanna miss it.
