New Orleans is gearing up for a night of celebration as the New Orleans Tourism and Cultural Fund (NOTCF) unveils the recipients of its second annual NOTCF Honors Gala awards. This Gala aims to be a night of recognition and cultural appreciation by showcasing an impressive lineup of honorees from various artistic disciplines.
The NOTCF Honors Gala, scheduled for Saturday, January 13, 2024, at the historic Sugar Mill, will spotlight individuals who have demonstrated dedication and talent in their respective fields.
Germaine Bazzle, recipient of the 2024 Lifetime Achievement Award, leads the pack of distinguished honorees. Bazzle’s profound contributions to the cultural landscape of New Orleans have left an indelible mark, making her a deserving recipient of this accolade. Bazzle was honored by OffBeat with Lifetime Achievement as a Music Educator and she has also won several “Best Vocalist” and “Best COntemporary Jazz Vocalist” in OffBeat‘s Best of The Beat Awards.
Nathaniel Cameron Jr., the entrepreneur and producer known by many for his work with collective glbl wrmng and Them People, will be honored with the 2024 Emerging Artist Award, recognizing his talent and potential to shape the city’s cultural future.
The 2024 Established Artists category is a testament to the diversity of artistic expression in New Orleans, with notable names making their mark in various sectors. Linda Green‘s culinary arts, Nik Richard’s innovative design work, Big Chief Shaka Zulu’s entertainment contributions, Megan Braden-Perry’s literary Arts and humanities work, Herreast Harrison‘s dedication to preservation (also a recipient of a Best of The Beat “HeartBeat Award,” and Brandan “BMIKE” Odums‘ visual arts and crafts, all find themselves on this respected list of honorees.
The NOTCF Honors Gala Awards selection process follows a meticulous five-tiered approach involving multiple rounds to ensure the most deserving individuals are recognized. The nominations were initially sourced from the community through a public call, capturing the essence of local sentiment. The selection committee then considered these nominations, composed of influential figures in New Orleans’ cultural scene. The winners are chosen anonymously, emphasizing the merit and integrity of the selection process.
The 2024 Selection Committee members include prominent figures such as Tod Smith of WWL TV, Jay Cicero from the Greater New Orleans Sports Foundation, Emily Madero of French Quarter Festivals, Inc, and other respected community leaders.
In a statement resonating with the heart of NOTCF’s mission, President and CEO Lisa D. Alexis emphasizes, “Culture is a reflection of our community. It is vital to the growth and economic progress of the city of New Orleans. In a world where globalization is making it increasingly difficult for culture to survive, NOTCF will continue to prioritize our city’s people and their contributions as a world influencer.”
To learn more about NOTCF’s invaluable contributions to New Orleans’ culture, visit their official website.
