Some of the most influential figures of the year were honored at the 2015 NAN Triumph Awards, which was filmed in Atlanta Saturday night. The show, hosted by actress Tichina Arnold and presented by Rev. Al Sharpton’s National Action Network (NAN) and TV One, celebrated it’s 6th year of recognizing excellence in the community.
“Shame” singer Tyrese Gibson was honored as the Entertainer of the Year by Martin Luther King III, and his close friend and The Fast and the Furious franchise co-star Ludacris sent him a special message.
Rev. Dr. Joseph Echols Lowery was given the Chairman’s Award for Historic & Transformative Service for his work as a minister, civil rights leader, and activist for over 60 years. Comedienne Wanda Sykes took home the Activism in the Arts Award for her longtime work assisting homeless youth and the LGBT community. Rosalind Hudnell, the chief diversity officer and global director of education and external relations for Intel, was named the Corporate Executive of the Year for her stellar work in the corporate world.
The last honoree of the night was singer John Legend, who was presented with the President’s Award for Service and Humanitarian Effort. He was recognized with the honor due to continuously speaking out about social injustices.
Celebrities including Soledad O’Brien, Syleena Johnson and Donnie Simpson served as presenters. Tyrese, Jazmine Sullivan, Chante Moore, Ledisi, and others treated the crowd to musical performances.
Rapper T.I. delivered a special and original spoken word performance entitled “United We Stand.”
Be sure to catch the 2015 Triumph Awards Saturday, Oct. 3 at 8 p.m. EST on TV One.
Check out photos from the elegant soiree below.
