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The National Black Men in Leadership Awards Celebrate the excellence, resilience, and innovation of Black men and organizations who are shaping our communities, industries, and society at large. With categories ranging from emerging leaders and mental health advocates to champions of entrepreneurship and organizational equity, these awards honor individuals and institutions creating transformative impact.

Presented during the National Black Men in Leadership Conference, the awards offer a powerful platform to elevate stories of success, recognize trailblazers, and connect with leaders and allies committed to equity, advancement, and collective progress.

Nominate an Outstanding Leader or Organization

Celebrate excellence by nominating an individual or organization making a powerful impact in their field. Whether driving change, inspiring others, or advancing equity and innovation—this is your chance to recognize those who are truly making a difference.

To nominate, please visit HERE!

Celebrate the Winners Live

Be there on August 14 at The National Black Men in Leadership Conference for the exciting live reveal of this year’s award winners. Join industry professionals in honoring the individuals and organizations setting the standard for excellence.

To register, please visit HERE!

Why Participate in the National Black Men in Leadership Awards?

Celebrate Excellence

Recognize and celebrate the individuals and organizations driving meaningful impact and innovation across industries nationwide.

Gain Visibility

Whether you're nominated, selected as a winner, or supporting a colleague, this is your chance to be recognized on a national stage among changemakers and trailblazers.

Connect and Collaborate

Engage with leaders, influencers, and visionaries from across the country—building powerful connections that shape the future of leadership and equity in nationwide.

Award Categories

Business Leadership Award

Recognizes a Black male professional whose leadership drives innovation, economic impact, and community advancement.

Nomination Criteria:
  • Demonstrates forward-thinking leadership and introduces transformative ideas within their sector.
  • Contributes to business or organizational growth that supports broader economic development.
  • Actively supports efforts that empower and uplift underrepresented communities.

Entrepreneurship Leadership Award

Honors a Black male entrepreneur who exemplifies business excellence, community impact, and entrepreneurial spirit.

Nomination Criteria:
  • Established and maintained a successful business marked by measurable growth and stability.
  • Creates jobs and drives economic development within the community.
  • Serves as a role model and inspires others through innovation, resilience, and purpose-driven entrepreneurship.

Community Leadership & Advocacy Award

Honors an individual who has demonstrated unwavering dedication to improving the lives of others through advocacy, community service, or volunteerism.

Nomination Criteria:
  • Champions meaningful causes and drives positive change through policy, outreach, or education.
  • Demonstrates a sustained commitment to serving others through hands-on involvement and leadership.
  • Acts as a catalyst for empowerment, encouraging others to engage and lead within their communities.

Education & Mentorship Leadership Award

Recognizes an outstanding leader in education or mentorship who has empowered and inspired the next generation of Black leaders through teaching, coaching, and guiding youth.

Nomination Criteria:
  • Inspires and uplifts Black youth through consistent mentorship, coaching, or teaching.
  • Demonstrates excellence in educational leadership or mentoring across formal or informal settings.
  • Creates lasting influence by helping others grow, succeed, and reach their full potential.

Civic Engagement & Public Service Leadership Award

Celebrates a Black man who has contributed significantly to public service, government, or civic engagement, positively impacting policy and community relations.

Nomination Criteria:
  • Demonstrates outstanding service in government, policy, or public administration.
  • Leads initiatives that promote civic participation and strengthen community trust.
  • Contributes to meaningful changes that improve lives and advance equity through policy.

Innovative Leadership in the Arts & Culture Award

Honors a leader in the arts, culture, or entertainment who has used their platform to promote Black culture, social awareness, and community change.

Nomination Criteria:
  • Elevates and celebrates Black culture through creative expression.
  • Uses their platform to raise awareness of social issues and advocate for change.
  • Actively contributes to or partners with communities to foster growth and dialogue through the arts.

Emerging Leadership Award

Recognizes and celebrates a rising leader under the age of 30 who is driving meaningful change and creating lasting impact across society.

Nomination Criteria:
  • Under the age of 30 and demonstrates bold, purpose-driven leadership.
  • Creates meaningful impact that advances equity and societal progress.
  • Inspires others through innovation, integrity, and action.

Mental Health Advocacy & Wellness Leadership Award

Honors an individual who leads efforts in mental health awareness and wellness, particularly within the Black community.

Nomination Criteria:
  • Demonstrates a sustained commitment to advancing mental health awareness and access.
  • Leads or supports initiatives that promote emotional well-being and reduce stigma.
  • Advocates for inclusive, community-centered approaches to mental health.

Organizational Leadership Award

Honors a company or organization that champions diversity, equity, and inclusion while driving meaningful change in the community—especially in support of Black men in leadership.

Nomination Criteria:
  • Demonstrates a clear commitment to DEI through policies, programs, and workplace culture.
  • Actively supports the advancement and visibility of Black men in leadership roles.
  • Contributes to positive, measurable community impact through outreach or partnerships.
Nomination Submission Deadline is July 14, 2025

The 2025 National Black Men in Leadership Award Winners

Live Winner Reveal

Winners will be announced live during the 2025 National Black Men in Leadership Conference on August 14, 2025.

Register Here

Explore Our Past Honorees

Our previous awardees embody excellence across business, education, community leadership, racial justice, and entrepreneurship. Their impact reflects the spirit of the National Black Men in Leadership Summit—honoring purpose-driven leaders who advance equity and inspire change.

To view awardees, please Click HERE!

2025 Honorees

The 2026 honorees will be listed here after the selection process.

2026 Honorees

Submit a Nomination

Nominate a deserving individual or organization that exemplifies excellence, leadership, and innovation.

Nominate Here

Join us in celebrating Black excellence, innovation, and the power of collective leadership during one of the most inspiring events of the year.

Through our tailored approach, the TUC is committed to supporting our partners in their journey to create more inclusive, equitable, and thriving environments. We work closely with each organization to understand their unique challenges and goals, providing them with the expertise and resources needed to make lasting, impactful change.​