Recap: NISSAN Diversity At The 14th Annual AAFCA 2023 Awards

What an amazing time I had out in Beverly Hills, Ca for a couple of days to cover the 14th Annual African American Film Critics Association Awards ceremony! It was held at the gorgeous Beverly Wilshire Hotel and it was a star-studded affair! One of the key sponsors for the red carpet event was Nissan and they were so gracious to invite me out to the lovely affair!

I got a chance to meet some new people in the room and saw so many familiar faces from over the years. The highlight of the evening was seeing Actor Will Smith accept a special honor from AAFCA. It was his first time to hit any stage in person since the Oscar slap. Smith gave a very moving speech and said that the film “Emancipation” was one of the most difficult films he has ever done in his entire career. The 54-year-old actor received AAFCA’s “Beacon” award, job well done!

I first noticed Smith early on at the event when cameras started to flash and people were moving fast to head over towards him! I watched him from a distance taking TONS of photos with mostly everyone in the room without hardly turning anyone down! I was wondering was he doing that for good press or was it genuine. An executive that was sitting at the table with me said, “no he does that ALL the time, I’ve worked with him on many projects and that’s how he is!” I was extremely impressed by his actions!

He went on to thank AAFCA and co-founder Gil L. Robertson for the award and then to the director of the film Antoine Fuqua.

It was a lovely event and everyone looked amazing all dolled up in the garbs and I want to thank Nissan for the experience because it was my first time attending! I spotted so much greatness in the room like Viola Davis, Angela Bassett, Courtney B. Vance, Director Ryan Coogler, Ruthie Carter, Meagan Good, Jalyn Hill, Omarion, Jay Ellis and the list goes on! So much talent in one room, I was very humbled by the experience and do hope to return next year! Enjoy a few shots, till next time!