On Sunday, January 19, the Holiday Wish Foundation (HWF) held their Cabaret Spotlight award show at South End’s RSVP Parlor.
The event, hosted by La John Trinity, Charlotte’s Mr. Black Pride 2024, highlighted those in the queer community who have made a substantial impact in the Charlotte region. Among the awardees are those who have worked to uplift lives through community service, dedicated themselves to their art forms, worked in Charlotte as small businesses and been a voice for those in need in the LGBTQ+ community.
The grant winners of the night, by category, are Corine Olarte for Small Business of the Year, Galen Byrnside for the Community Impact Grant, and Gerem3, earning the spot for Artist of the Year. Those who will take to the stage for the Community Legacy Impact Awards are Bethany Corrigan, Qnotes’ own L’Monique King and Bobby Kerns.
The event, which took place from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., treated audience members to stories about the challenges and triumphs in the queer community through the experiences of those recognized and how they viewed and conducted their work during their careers.
For those unfamiliar with HWF, the organization is a non-profit that pushes to enhance the presence of marginalized communities in Charlotte, as well as aid the advancement of the arts and business sectors in the city. HWF achieves this by putting on yearly events, in addition to the Holiday Wish Gala.
These events include the Queen Sugar Bash, a showcase that aims to increase visibility and support for LGBTQ+ performing and visual artists through opportunities & networking, and monthly community service pop-ups that offer resources such as food, clothing, and household items free of charge and further helping those in need in the community gain access to such necessities.
HWF’s Cabaret Spotlight was held at the Scorpio/RSVP Complex (225 Fairwood Avenue) For more details visit the Holiday Wish Foundation website.