Thank you to everyone who participated in the nominating and voting process for the Best In Black C-Ville Awards 2026! With over 4,000 community members nominating candidates and casting votes for this year’s winners, your energy and engagement have been nothing short of inspiring.
We know we have years of catching up to do when it comes to recognizing all of the talent, leadership, and brilliance thriving in our community. Thank you for bearing with us as we refine this operation and work through the kinks. Most of all, thank you for your enthusiasm and willingness to help us celebrate the people, organizations, and businesses making a collective, positive impact every single day.
Disclaimer & Community Promise
The Best In Black C-Ville Awards exist to celebrate the excellence, innovation, and greatness displayed across our Black business, arts, and civic community—and to help build a strong, engaged local network. This initiative is rooted entirely in love, unity, and positive energy. We ask that you join us in dismissing any negativity surrounding these efforts. Let’s continue to celebrate one another, honor our collective contributions, and lift each other up!
Best Kept Secret
For an underrated person, business, side hustle, creator, or hidden gem community initiative.
Winner: Chrystal Jackson (Braid Queen)
Bio: Chrystal Jackson is a passionate braider specializing in creative kid hairstyles, clean knotless braids, and traditional box braids. Having spent years perfecting her craft, her greatest reward is seeing clients glow with confidence when they step out of her chair.
The “Outside All Summer” Award
For the person, business, or event that stayed active, visible, and outside in the community all year.
Winner: D.N.D. Dance Team
Bio: Do Not Disturb (D.N.D) is a Charlottesville-based hip-hop majorette team founded in 2018 for youth ages 3–18. Renowned for high-energy performances, D.N.D has competed along the East Coast, performed at NBA and NFL games, participated in Timbaland’s dedication weekend, and appeared with the UniverSoul Circus while empowering youth through dance.
Community Plug Award
For the person who always knows what’s happening, who to call, where to go, or who can help instantly, honoring essential connectors.
Winner: Tanesha Hudson
Bio: Tanesha Hudson is a Charlottesville-based community activist, organizer, filmmaker, and educational advocate dedicated to racial equity and civil rights. As director and producer of the documentary A Legacy Unbroken: The Story of Black Charlottesville, she preserves local Black history. A Sorensen Institute graduate, Tanesha actively advocates for policy change and systemic reform across housing, education, healthcare, and governance.
Soft Life Curator
For businesses or individuals creating elevated experiences, brunches, luxury aesthetics, wellness, self-care, and ambiance.
Winner: Shaniece Bradford
Bio: Shaniece Bradford is a Charlottesville native, ReadyKids Director of Community Engagement, and founder of Shaniece Be LLC (creator of the Just Be Well Experience). A Virginia State University graduate, her work spans public service, victim advocacy, and nonprofit leadership. Following a 2025 breast cancer diagnosis and double mastectomy, Shaniece leads with authenticity, resilience, and compassion, empowering others through luxury wellness experiences, workshops, and community connection.
“Everybody Know Them” Award
For a beloved, recognizable community figure who is deeply woven into the city’s culture.
Winner: D.N.D. Dance Team (Pictured Above)
Bio: Do Not Disturb (D.N.D) is a Charlottesville-based hip-hop majorette team founded in 2018 for youth ages 3–18. Renowned for high-energy performances, D.N.D has competed along the East Coast, performed at NBA and NFL games, participated in Timbaland’s dedication weekend, and appeared with the UniverSoul Circus while empowering youth through dance.
Main Character Energy Award
For the person with undeniable presence, confidence, visibility, or style in the community.
Winner: D.N.D. Dance Team (Pictured Above)
Bio: Do Not Disturb (D.N.D) is a Charlottesville-based hip-hop majorette team founded in 2018 for youth ages 3–18. Renowned for high-energy performances, D.N.D has competed along the East Coast, performed at NBA and NFL games, participated in Timbaland’s dedication weekend, and appeared with the UniverSoul Circus while empowering youth through dance.
Most Stylish Human
For someone whose presence and personal style consistently land and inspire across the community.
Winner: Maria Carey
Bio: Maria Carey is the Executive Assistant at the Charlottesville Redevelopment and Housing Authority and founder of Carey Executive Solutions. A mother of three, PTO volunteer, and style advocate, Maria is dedicated to community empowerment, organizational leadership, and helping others build confidence and achieve success.
Best Vibes Award
Recognizing exceptional energy, atmosphere, hospitality, and event hosting that brings people together.
Winner: DJ Runway
Bio: Nick Feggans, known as “Mr. Nick” and DJ Runway, is a prominent Charlottesville youth development leader, Club Director at the Boys & Girls Club (Albemarle Campus), and community entertainer. Serving over 200 families daily, he builds healthy relationships and hosts essential local events and resource drives to support Charlottesville and Albemarle families in need.
The Renaissance Award
For someone balancing multiple roles and talents seamlessly across entrepreneurship, art, leadership, advocacy, and service.
Winner: Dr. Wes Bellamy
Bio: Dr. Wes Bellamy is a nationally recognized educator, author, and activist whose work centers on policy, leadership, and community empowerment. Author of When White Supremacy Knocks, Fight Back! and Nobody Is Coming to Save Us, he serves as Commissioner of The Tonsler League, Executive Director of the John Mercer Langston Institute at VSU, CEO of the BCIC, and former Vice-Mayor of Charlottesville.
Most Likely To Put Cville On
For individuals or groups actively elevating Charlottesville’s culture, talent, and visibility beyond the city.
Winner: D.N.D. Dance Team (Pictured Above)
Bio: Do Not Disturb (D.N.D) is a Charlottesville-based hip-hop majorette team founded in 2018 for youth ages 3–18. Renowned for high-energy performances, D.N.D has competed along the East Coast, performed at NBA and NFL games, participated in Timbaland’s dedication weekend, and appeared with the UniverSoul Circus while empowering youth through dance.
The “You Better Book Them Now” Award
For emerging talent before they explode on a broader scale, creating urgency and excitement.
Winner: Chef G
Bio: Gregory “Chef G” Gough is a chef, mentor, and owner of Chef G Catering in Central Virginia. Overcoming adversity as a youth, he uses culinary arts and mentorship to inspire young people. Gregory serves his community through hospitality and hosts the annual “In the Name of Shod” Turkey Drive in memory of his late brother, Rashod.
The Pivot Award
For someone who successfully reinvented themselves through a career shift, rebrand, comeback, or personal growth journey.
Winner: Nick Feggans (Pictured Above)
Bio: Nick Feggans, known as “Mr. Nick” and DJ Runway, is a prominent Charlottesville youth development leader, Club Director at the Boys & Girls Club (Albemarle Campus), and community entertainer. Serving over 200 families daily, he builds healthy relationships and hosts essential local events and resource drives to support Charlottesville and Albemarle families in need.
The “Don’t Sleep On Them” Award
For a clearly gifted individual or group deserving of full community recognition and celebration.
Winner: D.N.D. Dance Team (Pictured Above)
Bio: Do Not Disturb (D.N.D) is a Charlottesville-based hip-hop majorette team founded in 2018 for youth ages 3–18. Renowned for high-energy performances, D.N.D has competed along the East Coast, performed at NBA and NFL games, participated in Timbaland’s dedication weekend, and appeared with the UniverSoul Circus while empowering youth through dance.
Next Gen Trailblazer
For younger entrepreneurs, creatives, organizers, or students creating an impactful legacy early in their journey.
Winner: Lamira Jackson
Bio: Lamira Jackson is a Charlottesville native, Saint Anne’s-Belfield School graduate, and incoming Elementary Education major at Old Dominion University. Driven by a passion for service, she served as co-president of Big Buddies, held leadership roles in the Black Student Union, and worked as an after-school preschool assistant. In the broader community, Lamira contributed to the Youth-Nex Advisory Council at UVA—helping create a portrait of a thriving youth—and volunteered with Barrett Early Learning Center, the Virginia Discovery Museum, and the Nelson County SPCA. She is dedicated to giving back through her future career in education.
The “You Seen Their Rebrand?!” Award
For the business or person with the strongest growth, glow-up, or brand evolution this year.
Winner: Michelle’s Soulfood
Bio: Mary Crenshaw is the owner of Michelle’s Soul Food in Charlottesville, Virginia. With over 20 years of culinary experience, she grew her business from a food truck into a thriving brick-and-mortar restaurant. Dedicated to Southern hospitality and authentic comfort cuisine, Mary is deeply invested in serving her community through food and connection.
Culture Shifter Award
For individuals or organizations changing narratives, elevating visibility, or introducing transformative energy to the local Black community.
Winner: Myrtle Houchens
Bio: Myrtle Houchens is a retired Charlottesville educator of over 32 years and a dedicated community culture shifter. Having raised her family in Garrett Square (now Kindlewood), she gives back by empowering residents, connecting community resources, and managing youth outreach—including establishing a local Kid’s Cafe. Today, she works with PHA to support families across 9–10 diverse cultures in property redevelopment.
Legacy In Motion Award
Honoring active leaders actively building long-term community impact and bridging emerging and established generations.
Winner: James ‘Littlez’ Dowell Jr
Bio: James “Littlez” Dowell Jr. is a Charlottesville native, community builder, and leader in the national running industry. As Co-Founder of Prolyfyck Run Creww (est. 2019), he champions physical wellness, social equity, and community care by promoting abundance over competition. Expanding his impact beyond athletics, Littlez spearheaded the installation of Prolyfyck food pantries in local public housing facilities to directly combat food insecurity.
Best Safe Space
For businesses or organizations where Black community members genuinely feel welcomed, comfortable, seen, and valued.
Winner: Jefferson School African American Heritage Center
Bio: Dr. Andrea Douglas is the founding force behind the Jefferson School African American Heritage Center (JSAAHC), dedicated to amplifying African Diaspora art and history. A scholar and curator with over 20 years of experience, she holds a Ph.D. in Art History and an M.B.A. Dr. Douglas co-founded the Swords Into Plowshares public art initiative and co-edited After Emancipation: Racism and Resistance at the University of Virginia.
The “If They Leave Cville We Riot” Award
A community love award honoring deeply cherished individuals or organizations who make Charlottesville feel like home.
Winner: Kymora Johnson
Bio: Kymora “Mo” Johnson is a Charlottesville native and star point guard for the Virginia Cavaliers Women’s Basketball team. A consensus five-star recruit, two-time Virginia Gatorade Player of the Year, McDonald’s All-American, and First-Team All-ACC selection, she has broken UVA program records while leading the Cavaliers. Known as a hometown hero, Kymora actively serves her community as a youth basketball mentor and advocate.
Black Excellence Behind The Scenes
For people who make everything happen quietly behind the scenes, including coordinators, directors, admins, and support staff.
Winner: Miss Cville Juneteenth
Bio: The Miss C’Ville Juneteenth Pageant is a community movement celebrating African and African American culture, history, leadership, and empowerment. Through educational programs, talent showcases, and service, the pageant cultivates self-worth, character, and confidence in young women, inspiring them to become leaders within their schools and communities.
The Pressure Applied Award
For someone consistently speaking up, organizing, advocating, challenging systems, or holding institutions accountable.
Winner: Tanesha Hudson (Pictured Above)
Bio: Tanesha Hudson is a Charlottesville-based community activist, organizer, filmmaker, and educational advocate dedicated to racial equity and civil rights. As director and producer of the documentary A Legacy Unbroken: The Story of Black Charlottesville, she preserves local Black history. A Sorensen Institute graduate, Tanesha actively advocates for policy change and systemic reform across housing, education, healthcare, and governance.
For The People Award
For someone deeply committed to serving the community through mutual aid, youth advocacy, housing support, food justice, or education.
Winner: Gaye Carey
Bio: Gaye Carey is a Charlottesville native, Virginia Union University graduate, member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and certified Community Health Worker Case Manager at CVS Health. Dedicated to youth and family advocacy, she serves on the Blue Ridge Family Council, Virginia Promise Partnership, Virginia Food Access Coalition, and Tall Oaks Elementary PTO Board. A passionate advocate for autism awareness, affordable childcare, and health equity, Gaye has spent over two decades serving her community.
The Culture Protector Award
For someone preserving Black stories, traditions, history, creativity, or cultural spaces in Charlottesville.
Winner: Alex-Zan
Bio: Alex-Zan is an author, trailblazer, TV producer, and national “Info-Tainer” from Charlottesville, where he was one of 12 Black students to integrate public schools in 1959. A recipient of over 25 awards, he co-organized the city’s 1st African Arts Festival in 1965, established historic street designations, and directs five annual community initiatives inspiring youth and adults.
Change Agent of the Year
For people or organizations creating visible change through policy, organizing, education, healing work, equity initiatives, or youth development.
Winner: ReadyKids
Bio: ReadyKids is a Charlottesville organization dedicated to ensuring children are safe, healthy, nurtured, and prepared for learning. They support the local community by providing specialized counseling, family support services, and early learning opportunities.
The “Stand On Business and Values” Award
For a person or business intentionally using their platform to advocate for community, justice, equity, or inclusion.
Winner: Zyahna Bryant
Bio: Zyahna Bryant is a Charlottesville community organizer, activist, author, and speaker focused on racial justice and educational equity. At 12, she organized her first rally, later founding the Black Student Union at her high school and writing the 2016 petition calling for the removal of Charlottesville’s Lee Statue. Author of Reclaim, Zyahna has served on the Virginia African American Advisory Board and UVA-Community Partnerships Council. A Yale Bassett Award winner and Teen Vogue 21 Under 21 honoree, her fearless leadership continues to push for systemic equity across the Commonwealth.
Brand With Motion Award
For a business that significantly leveled up its visibility, branding, expansion, marketing, partnerships, and momentum.
Winner: Royalty Eats
Bio: Nakesha White is an entrepreneur, mother, and wife born and raised in Charlottesville, Virginia. As the founder and owner of Royalty Eats, she has built a brand renowned for serving soulful cuisine with a touch of elegance. Driven by a passion for her community and her craft, she operates under the core belief that every customer deserves to be treated like royalty.
Customer Loyalty Award
For the business whose customers ride for them publicly, unapologetically, and continuously.
Winner: Royalty Eats (Pictured Above)
Bio: Nakesha White is an entrepreneur, mother, and wife born and raised in Charlottesville, Virginia. As the founder and owner of Royalty Eats, she has built a brand renowned for serving soulful cuisine with a touch of elegance. Driven by a passion for her community and her craft, she operates under the core belief that every customer deserves to be treated like royalty.
Most Innovative Black-Owned Business
For businesses delivering creative uniqueness across service, branding, technology, events, or customer experience.
Winner: The Art Bar
Bio: Marquez Mitchell is a Qualified Mental Health Professional, co-owner of The Art Bar Cville (alongside his daughters Faith and Harmonie), and co-owner of Integrity Mentoring LLC. Relocating to Charlottesville in 2016, he empowers youth and families through faith, creative expression, and structured mentorship to build lasting community change.
The Experience Matters Award
For businesses that cultivate a memorable atmosphere and elevated customer experience beyond just a product.
Winner: Natre’al Hair Design
Bio: Kathy D. Matthew is the owner of Natre’al Hair Design, specializing in natural hair care for over 21 years in Charlottesville. She has built a supportive salon community, mentored aspiring stylists, and created annual back-to-school styling initiatives to boost children’s confidence and support local families.
Hustle & Flow Award
For entrepreneurs juggling multiple streams, side hustles, pop-ups, vending, online sales, and strong community presence.
Winner: Jessica Carter
Bio: Jessica Carter is the Founder of HER SPORTS, owner of XtraMile Mentoring (serving youth and families for seven years), and Head Coach of the Fluvanna County High School Girls Basketball program. With 18 years of experience in human services, Jessica has dedicated her career to empowering youth and families through mentorship, sports, leadership, and community engagement. Her impactful work earned her the 2025 ESPNW & Toyota Everyday Hero Award.
Best Link-Up Spot
Where Black community members naturally gather, network, laugh, decompress, and reconnect.
Winner: Tonsler League
Bio: The Tonsler League is Charlottesville’s premier summer basketball league, bringing together top local and regional talent in a competitive, community-driven environment. More than just basketball, the league showcases athletes, creates opportunities, and inspires the next generation through high-level competition, sportsmanship, and cultural celebration.
Black Twitter Would Approve Award
For someone, a business, or an event with high cultural relevance, humor, visibility, and vibrant social engagement.
Winner: Miss Cville Juneteenth (Pictured Above)
Bio: The Miss C’Ville Juneteenth Pageant is a community movement celebrating African and African American culture, history, leadership, and empowerment. Through educational programs, talent showcases, and service, the pageant cultivates self-worth, character, and confidence in young women, inspiring them to become leaders within their schools and communities.
Auntie Approved Award
For a business, person, or event trusted, respected, and loved across generations.
Winner: Kathy Matthew (Pictured Above)
Bio: Kathy D. Matthew is the owner of Natre’al Hair Design, specializing in natural hair care for over 21 years in Charlottesville. She has built a supportive salon community, mentored aspiring stylists, and created annual back-to-school styling initiatives to boost children’s confidence and support local families.
The City Needed This Award
For a person, business, or initiative that filled an essential gap and met a real need in the Charlottesville community.
Winner: Miss Cville Juneteenth (Pictured Above)
Bio: The Miss C’Ville Juneteenth Pageant is a community movement celebrating African and African American culture, history, leadership, and empowerment. Through educational programs, talent showcases, and service, the pageant cultivates self-worth, character, and confidence in young women, inspiring them to become leaders within their schools and communities.
Woodard Properties and Chic & Classy Image Consulting L.I.T. Legacy Award
Recognizing an outstanding student scholar who exemplifies intentional excellence, hard work, and a commitment to personal and professional growth.
Recipient: Grant Patterson
Bio: Grant Patterson is a 2026 graduate of Charlottesville High School, where he played basketball. A dedicated student-athlete grounded in hard work and teamwork, he is the recipient of the 2026 Woodard Properties and Chic & Classy Image Consulting L.I.T. Legacy Scholarship. This fall, Grant will attend James Madison University to major in Business and Finance as he pursues his career goals.