The Afro Fashion Association announced on Tuesday the return of the Black Carpet Awards.

The second edition of the event is scheduled for Friday, September 20, during Milan Fashion Week, at the historic Teatro Manzoni in Milan.

Founded by Michelle Francine Ngonmo, the Black Carpet Awards has rapidly gained recognition as a powerful platform for celebrating and elevating individuals and organizations that are often underrepresented in society.

The Black Carpet Awards will honor Leaders of Change across various creative fields, including fashion, design, art, culinary arts, music, technology, business, sports, and film. The awards will be presented in five categories, with 10 winners—five selected by a jury and five chosen by the public. This year’s ceremony will also introduce the Virgil Abloh Award.

In the Leader of Change Culture category, nominees include Anna Osei, Cinzia Adanne Ebonine, Djarah Kan, Madam Danielle, and Marlon Brandao. The Leader of Change Creativity category features Alberto Mianchino, Janine Gaelle, Loretta Grace, Mistura Allison, and Sorelle Toledo. 

For Leader of Change Community, the nominees are Carlotta Vagnoli, D.E.I Futuro Antirazzista, Johanne Affricot, Khadim Loum, and Sabbrina Onana. The Leader of Change Entrepreneurship category includes Ada Ugo Abara, Affroriccie, Madeleine Camera, Nappytalia, and Victoria Adede Mensah. In the Leader of Change Legacy category, Justin Randolph Thompson and Miyuki Yajima are recognized for their long-standing contributions to diversity and inclusion.

Finally, the Virgil Abloh Award will got to either Claudia Gisele Ntsama, Marzio Villa, Romy Calzado, Thais Montessori, or Victor Hart. 

“As we prepare to host the second edition of the Black Carpet Awards, I am filled with pride and excitement. This event is more than just an awards ceremony; it is a powerful platform to celebrate and elevate those who are often unseen in our society. It is a reminder of the importance of visibility, recognition, and the profound impact that diversity equity and inclusion have within the creative industry. By honoring these Leaders of Change, we not only celebrate their achievements but also inspire others to continue driving meaningful progress,” said Ngonmo.