The second edition of the Black Carpet Awards took place just a few days ago at the iconic Teatro Manzoni during Milan Fashion Week, and it was truly a night to remember. This year’s event not only celebrated diversity and inclusion but also honored the trailblazers who are pushing boundaries across various creative fields—fashion, design, art, music, and more. As the backdrop of this prestigious event, the venue buzzed with anticipation, and the excitement in the air was palpable.
The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly the Virgil Abloh Award, a newly introduced recognition dedicated to young creatives of color making waves in the industry. The talented Romy Calzado was honored for her visionary contributions, showcasing how the next generation is reshaping creativity. It was an inspiring moment that underscored the profound impact of diversity within the creative industries.
But that wasn’t all—other categories shone a spotlight on remarkable individuals and organizations committed to making change. Cinzia Adanna Ebonine and Danielle Madame were recognized for their leadership in promoting culture, while Le Sorelle Toledo and Alberto Malanchino were honored for their global creative impact. Meanwhile, DEI Futuro Antirazzista and Johanne Affricot were celebrated for their efforts in fostering community change.
The glamorous evening also showcased The New Wave, a video presentation that highlighted the top 10 emerging talents who are set to shape the future of creativity. It was a powerful reminder that the future of fashion, design, and the arts is in the hands of those who continue to innovate and break down barriers.
As founder Michelle Francine Ngonmo perfectly put it: “This event is more than just an awards ceremony—it’s a powerful platform to celebrate those who are often invisible in our society.”
In short, the Black Carpet Awards was not just a celebration of achievements, but a call to action for continued progress in diversity, equity, and inclusion. A night of fashion, inspiration, and a glimpse of the future.