The African Achievement Awards 2024-25 lit up the Washington State on December 15th with an unforgettable evening of recognition, inspiration, and cultural pride. After several virtual editions due to the pandemic, this year’s event marked its triumphant return to an in-person format, drawing a glittering crowd of celebrities, leaders, and achievers from across the globe.
Directed by the visionary Dr. Davies Chirwa, produced by Channel A TV, and sponsored by the City of SeaTac in partnership with various community organizations and companies, the awards celebrated excellence in fields ranging from arts and entertainment to business, science, and philanthropy.
A Red Carpet Extravaganza
The evening began with a spectacular red carpet event, where guests showcased their finest African-inspired couture. Bold prints, intricate beadwork, and innovative designs paid homage to Africa’s rich cultural heritage, blending traditional artistry with modern aesthetics.
High-profile dignitaries, including government officials, industry leaders, and international icons, graced the red carpet, posing for photographs and engaging with attendees. The electric atmosphere set the tone for the evening as honorees, influencers, and community leaders mingled, celebrating African achievements and fostering connections. The event’s emcees kept the energy high, delivering witty and heartfelt commentary while ensuring the audience felt welcomed and engaged
The Award Ceremony
The heart of the evening was the award presentation, which honored individuals and organizations making exceptional contributions in their respective fields. Categories included arts and entertainment, innovation, entrepreneurship, science, community development, and philanthropy, reflecting the diverse talents and achievements of Africans and their diaspora.
Winners included musicians who have redefined global sounds, filmmakers whose stories transcend borders, and entrepreneurs who are breaking barriers in their industries. Activists and philanthropists were also celebrated for their relentless efforts to inspire change and uplift their communities.
Their moving stories of perseverance and triumph captivated the audience, highlighting the transformative power of vision, determination, and a commitment to making a difference.
Entertainment and Cultural Showcases
The ceremony featured an array of dynamic performances by renowned African artists, blending traditional and contemporary styles. Traditional dancers mesmerized the audience with their intricate footwork and storytelling, while contemporary musicians brought the crowd to its feet with electrifying beats.
Cultural showcases throughout the evening celebrated Africa’s deep-rooted heritage, complemented by modern performances that emphasized the continent’s vibrant and evolving identity.
Seamless Organization and Community Spirit
Dr. Davies Chirwa’s direction and Channel A TV’s production ensured that every aspect of the evening was flawlessly executed. From the stunning stage design to the seamless transitions between segments, the event was a testament to meticulous planning and creative vision.
The City of SeaTac, as the primary sponsor, played a pivotal role in making the event a success, alongside community organizations and companies that partnered to support this celebration of African excellence. Together, they created an inclusive and empowering environment that underscored the importance of unity and collaboration.
Networking Gala and Future Collaborations
The night concluded with a networking gala, where guests had the opportunity to exchange ideas, forge new partnerships, and discuss ways to continue celebrating and amplifying African achievements. Attendees praised the event for its professionalism, cultural richness, and the powerful sense of community it fostered.
Looking Ahead
The African Achievement Awards have cemented their place as a beacon of inspiration, honoring the immense contributions of Africans worldwide. As the 2024-25 edition draws to a close, it leaves behind a legacy of empowerment, resilience, and innovation.
With plans already underway for the 2025-26 African Achievement Awards, the event promises to be an even grander celebration of African excellence. Mark your calendars and join us as we once again come together to shine a spotlight on the brilliance and diversity of Africa and its diaspora.
About the African Achievement Awards
The African Achievement Awards recognize and celebrate the achievements of Africans and people of African descent who are making significant contributions in their communities and industries globally. Organized by Channel A TV and supported by a broad network of partners, the awards continue to serve as a platform for honoring excellence, fostering unity, and promoting African culture and values.
AFRICAN ACHIEVEMENT AWARD RECIPIENTS 2024
1.– LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT HONOREE 2024-25:
DREW DAMBERVILLE
2. – BEST AFRICAN COMMUNITY PIONEER 2024-25:
LEE OSMAN
3. – LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT HONOREE 2024-25:
THANDI CHIRWA
4. – BEST AFRICAN ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR 2024-25:
MICHAEL THOMPSON (SIKHONA)
5. – FRIEND OF AFRICA AWARD 2024-25:
DAVID PELHAM
6. – BEST AFRICAN MALE INTERNATIONAL GOSPEL ARTIST 2024-25:
ABEL CHUNGU
7. – BEST AFRICAN FEMALE INTERNATIONAL GOSPEL ARTIST 2024-25:
RUDO CHAKWERA
8. – BEST AFRICAN INTERNATION WOMEN EMPOWERMENT 2024-25:
WENDY HARAWA
9. – BEST AFRICAN RESTAURANT 2024-25:
RAFIKI RESTAURANT
10. – BEST AFRICAN HEALTHCARE TRAINING SCHOOL 2024-25:
SEATTLE HOME AID TRAINERS (PAULINE EVA OWUOR)
11. – BEST AFRICAN MARSHAL ARTS ATHLETES 2024-25:
GEORGE HOLLAND (Velocity Taekwondo)
11.2 – BEST AFRICAN MARSHAL ARTS ATHLETES 2024-25:
MAXWELL MANSON (Velocity Taekwondo)
12. – BEST AFRICAN FEMALE FASHION DESIGNER 2024-25:
OLAYINKA OLA
13. – BEST AFRICAN MALE FASHION DESIGNER 2024-25:
GUSTAVO APITI
14. – BEST AFRICAN GOSPEL GROUP 2024-25:
THE KAMANAS
15. – BEST FEMALE AFRO CARIBBEAN ARTIST 2024-25:
OLTANIE
16. – BEST AFRICAN MALE MUSIC ALBUM 2024-25:
T-BWOY
17. – BEST AFRICAN DJ:
DJ QUINS
18. – BEST AFRICAN SOCCER COACH:
COACH GK (RGM FUTBALL ACADEMY)
19. – BEST AFRICAN INTERNATIONAL SOCCER LEAGUE:
SEATTLE AFRIKAN PREMIER LEAGUE
20. – BEST AFRICAN TALENT AGENCY:
A.R.M (ALICE ROWLANDS MUSUKWA)
21. – BEST AFRICAN TV HOST:
OTHELIA JOY
22. – BEST AFRICAN MALE COMEDIAN:
BYRON OTIENO OWAGO
23. – BEST AFRICAN KIDS INFLUENCERS:
TALIA & URIEL
24. – BEST AFRICAN INTERNATIONAL TRADITIONAL ARTIST
JAMES NGOMA-CHAMANYAZI
25. – BEST EAST AFRICAN MALE INTERNATIONAL ARTIST:
ELEMENT EleéeH
26. – BEST EAST AFRICAN FEMALE INTERNATIONAL ARTIST:
NIKITA KERING’
27. – BEST AFRICAN FEMALE AFRO POP ARTIST:
QUEENNAK
28. -BEST AFRICAN INTERNATIONAL DUO TV HOSTS:
Dr. TAHEERAH & Dr. SHAKIRAH
29. – BEST AFRICAN INTERNATIONAL YOUTH EMPOWERMENT:
NTHANDA MANDUWI
30. – BEST AFRICAN INTERNATIONAL ARTIST:
ONESIMUS
31. – BEST AFRICAN INTERNATIONAL CULTURAL AMBASSADOR:
TAY GRIN
32. – BEST AFRICAN FEMALE COMMUNITY ACTIVIST:
TINA ABDU AZIZ
33. – BEST AFRICAN MALE COMMUNITY ACTIVIST:
KAMAU CHEGE
34. -BEST CENTRAL AFRICAN ARTIST:
RICH BIZZY
35. – BEST AFRICAN PAGEANT PLATFORM:
MISS AFRICA AMERICA
36. – BEST AFRICAN INTERNATIONAL FEMALE ACTOR:
CASSIE KABWITA
37. -BEST EAST AFRICAN YOUTH EMPOWERMENT:
SHANARIHA EVANS
38. -LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT HONOREE:
DR. JUSTINA MUTALE
39 – BEST AFRICAN HUMAN RIGHTS ACTIVIST
PETER KUEL
40 – BEST AFRICAN FEMALE FILM PRODUCER
DELPHINE CHISULO
41 – BEST AFRICAN NFL HUMANITARIAN
UCHENNA NWOSU