Get ready to join the celebration as we gather for the Kaitz Foundation’s spectacular 40th Annual Fundraising dinner! On September 20, 2023, the New York Marriott Marquis will once again be filled with energy as we descend on New York City for the industry’s annual Diversity Week with this unforgettable capstone event. After four incredible decades of unwavering dedication to fostering diversity and inclusivity, we’re turning up the heat and “staying focused” on what truly matters.
The Dinner will be hosted by Zinhle Essamuah. Zinhle is the co-anchor of NBC News Daily, which streams on NBC News NOW and also airs on NBC. She is also an NBC News correspondent and is known for her reporting on justice, culture and poverty. She is a 2023 Emmy nominee in the Outstanding Emerging Journalist category.
Each year, the ChangeMaker awards recognize the significant contributions of individuals, groups, organizations, or content creators that have, over the course of the past year, generated significant impact and resonance around diversity, equity and inclusion in media and entertainment.
This year’s ChangeMaker Award for Creative Content will be awarded to Hallmark Media’s, Mahogany content initiative. Mahogany is being honored for celebrating the love, joy, kindness and human connection central to the Hallmark brand through the distinct lens of the Black experience. Toni Judkins, Senior Vice President, Programming Development, Hallmark Media will be accepting the award on behalf for Hallmark Media.
A second ChangeMaker Award for Social Impact will be awarded to The Hidden Genius Project. The Hidden Genius Project will be recognized for a its commitment to improving the landscape of underrepresented communities across the nation. Founded by five Black male entrepreneurs/technologists unnerved by the juxtaposition between the high unemployment of Black male youth and the plethora of career opportunities within the local technology sector, The Hidden Genius Project trains and mentors Black male youth in technology creation, entrepreneurship and leadership skills to transform their lives and communities. Brandon Nicholson, Ph.D., Chief Executive Officer, of The Hidden Genius Project will accept the award on behalf of the organization.
Renowned vocalist, Chris “CJW” Weaver will perform during the event. Chris Weaver first captured the hearts of America on NBC’s The Voice where he turned all four chairs in his initial appearance in front of the judges and was the only performer to be invited back to perform again.
The Walter Kaitz Foundation, along with esteemed co-chairs, Dalila Wilson-Scott (Comcast NBCUniversal) and Detavio Samuels (Revolt) look forward to welcoming guests, sponsors, and allies and honoring the remarkable focus of our collective industry.
