Café Mocha Radio brought its Crystal Anniversary to Washington, DC this weekend, transforming the historic Howard Theatre into a celebration of community, culture, and the people who’ve helped move both forward. The nationally syndicated show — known as the first to bring “radio from a woman’s perspective” to airwaves across the country — marked 15 years with its annual Salute THEM Awards, a ceremony that continues to uplift leaders whose impact extends far beyond their resume.
A Night Centering Cultural Impact
This year’s ceremony doubled as a reminder of why Café Mocha remains such an essential voice in media. Built on celebrating multicultural women, the show’s legacy has naturally grown into honoring the broader community of changemakers shaping creative, social, and political landscapes.
Among the standout honorees was writer–director Ryan Coogler, who received the inaugural HBCU First LOOK “I Aspire” Global Impact Award, presented in partnership with Howard University’s Chadwick Boseman College of Fine Arts. The recognition felt especially resonant — not only because of Coogler’s industry-shifting work, but because of the creative lineage that connects him, Chadwick Boseman, and Howard University. In his acceptance, Coogler reflected on the significance of receiving an award rooted in the HBCU ecosystem that helped shape his late collaborator.
Celebrating Trailblazers Across Generations
The evening continued with tributes to honorees representing excellence across entertainment, politics, business, and community service.
Actress and entrepreneur Marsai Martin received the Bridging the Gap Award, while legendary screen icon Lynn Whitfield was honored with the Legend Award, acknowledging a career that’s inspired generations of performers.
Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett (D-Texas) was recognized with the Champion for Change Award for her political leadership and outspokenness on issues impacting marginalized communities.
Washington, DC icon Virginia Ali — co-founder of the beloved Ben’s Chili Bowl — received the Business Legacy Award, and AARP executive Edna Kane-Williams was named this year’s Corporate Trailblazer.
Community organizer Angel Gregorio was honored for her activism, and R&B singer Kenny Lattimore received the SWAG Award for using his platform in service of both artistry and community.
Performances and a Sold-Out Crowd
The ceremony was hosted by hip hop pioneer Yo-Yo, TV producer Jawn Murray, and Café Mocha TV host Laila Muhammad, who kept the evening anchored in humor and heart. Performances from The String Queens, gospel favorite Anthony Brown, and actor/singer Keith D. Robinson rounded out the night, underscoring the show’s tradition of blending artistry with purpose.
This year’s Salute THEM Awards also served as the kickoff for the 3rd Annual HBCU First LOOK Film Festival, continuing Café Mocha’s commitment to supporting emerging storytellers across HBCU campuses.
The Mission Behind the Milestone
While the celebration marked 15 years on the air, it also spotlighted the work of the Mocha Cares Foundation, which supports women and children impacted by domestic violence and provides mentorship opportunities for HBCU students. Through the foundation, Café Mocha’s influence extends well beyond radio, amplifying the same communities the show champions on air.
Café Mocha’s Crystal Anniversary wasn’t just a look back at what the show has built — it was a reminder of how powerful intentional storytelling and community-centered platforms can be. And if the energy of the night was any indication, the mission is far from finished.