Red Carpet Reflections: Cafe Mocha's Salute THEM Awards at the HBCU First LOOK Film Festival Honoring Ryan Coogler

Last Thursday night, November 6th, I had the pleasure of covering the red carpet for the Mocha Cafe Salute Them Awards at the 2025 HBCU First LOOK Film Festival, held at the iconic Howard Theatre in Washington, D.C. The atmosphere was electric — a perfect blend of star power, cultural pride, and creative inspiration.

The evening honored some of the most influential figures shaping arts, business, and community. Among the standout honorees was acclaimed filmmaker Ryan Coogler, who received the inaugural “I Aspire” Global Impact Award presented in partnership with Howard University’s Chadwick Boseman College of Fine Arts. The moment carried deep emotion, as Coogler’s recognition not only celebrated his groundbreaking cinematic work but also honored his late friend and collaborator Chadwick Boseman. The crowd’s reaction was heartfelt — it was clear how much this presentation meant to the Howard community and to the future storytellers the festival aims to inspire.

Checkout Pictures of the Red Carpet Courtesy of Justin Agard

Another major highlight was seeing Marsai Martin, the award-winning actress and executive producer known for Black-ish, light up the carpet. Her presence embodied the festival’s theme of empowering young creatives to take control of their narratives and build on the HBCU legacy of excellence.

The event also honored icons including Virginia Ali of Ben’s Chili Bowl, Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett, AARP EVP Edna Kane Williams, philanthropist Angel Gregorio, and R&B star Kenny Lattimore. Media personalities Jawn Murray and YoYo kept the energy high as co-hosts, joined by appearances from Keith Robinson, Fox Sport's Kelsey Nicole Nelson, Da Brat, and Jesseca Harris-Dupart.

As the cameras flashed and interviews rolled, what stood out most was the unity and purpose behind the event. The HBCU First LOOK Film Festival continues to shine as a space that celebrates achievement while inspiring the next generation to dream bigger and tell their stories boldly.