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✨🏆 2026 S(HE) WHO INSPIRES ME AWARDS – TELEVISED AWARD CEREMONY 🏆✨Elevate The Family Entertainment proudly presents the 2026 S(HE) Who Inspires Me Awards, a televised award ceremony honoring powerful leaders, creatives, visionaries, and change-makers who continue to inspire communities across the nation through service, excellence, and impact.
This prestigious evening will celebrate Lifetime Achievement honorees, community leaders, entertainers, filmmakers, comedians, and trailblazers while also recognizing the winners of the 2026 public poll categories.
📍 Location: Rockford, Illinois
📅 Date: May 9th, 2026
🕒 Doors Open: 3:00 PM
🎭 Show Starts: 5:00 PM
🎟 Tickets | Sponsorship | Vendor Opportunities:
👉 etfent.com
📞 815-293-9756
🎤 Hosts
• Brother Kenick El – Visionary host, cultural educator, and media personality
• Comedian Lynn Palmer – Nationally recognized comedian bringing laughter, heart, and soul to the stage
SPONSORS : The RPL Nordlof Center , @Creative Juices / OWNER Angel Mackey , Aaron’s furniture store Rockford Illinois East State location , Pizza Hut
🌟 2026 HONOREES 🌟
State Representative Maurice West (Rockford, IL)
Illinois State Representative for the 67th District, recognized for his lifelong dedication to public service, community advocacy, and leadership that uplifts families and neighborhoods.
Ramon “Swift” Salon (Milwaukee, WI)
Award-winning independent filmmaker and founder of Swift Motion Pictures, celebrated for shining a global light on independent film and storytelling rooted in community experiences.
Dr. Khalilah Camacho-Ali
Humanitarian, philanthropist, and global icon, honored for her lifelong work in advocacy, empowerment, and cultural impact across generations.
Coach Ernie Hanes (Milwaukee, WI)
Legendary boxing coach and mentor, recognized for shaping champions inside and outside the ring through discipline, guidance, and unwavering commitment to youth development.
Dr. Stacee’ Lang (Atlanta, GA)
Renowned grant strategist and powerhouse entrepreneur who has helped secure over $300 million in grant funding, empowering Black-owned businesses and organizations worldwide.
Thomas Tatum (Milwaukee, WI)
Media professional and creative leader honored for contributions to entertainment, production, and community-driven storytelling.
@La’Nitra Rucker (Atlanta, GA)
Creative professional and community advocate recognized for leadership, influence, and excellence within the arts and media space.
@Darnell Lindsey & Xzavia Dobbs (Chicago , IL)
Honored for excellence in media, leadership, and family-driven impact within entertainment and entrepreneurship.
Comedians @Dre Lov , Tez, & B. Jones (Milwaukee, WI)
Recognized collectively for collaboration over competition—using comedy to unite, uplift, and create opportunities across the Midwest.
Robert Smith (Rockford, IL)
Community leader honored for consistency, integrity, and commitment to positive change in Rockford.
Patrick Coleman (Rockford, IL)
Boxing Hall of Famer and mentor, celebrated for a legacy of excellence, leadership, and inspiration in sports and community service.
Comedian Tara Terry (Chicago | Rockford)
Celebrated for her powerful comedic voice, authenticity, and ability to connect laughter with real-life experiences.
✨ This televised celebration will also feature special moments, award presentations, and recognition of poll-selected winners—bringing together leaders, artists, and communities from across the Midwest and beyond for one unforgettable night.
🎟 Secure your tickets, vendor spots, or sponsorships today:
👉 etfent.com | 📞 815-293-9756
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#BlackExcellence
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#RockfordIllinois
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#MediaAndEntertainment
#GivingFlowers
#HonoringGreatness
#ElevateTheFamily
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Downtown Rockford, Rockford, Illinois, United States
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