COLUMBUS, Ga. —The Courier Eco Latino Newspaper is proud to announce the opening of nominations for its signature annual celebration, the CEL Awards, as the publication celebrates its 20th anniversary of serving the Black and Brown communities of Columbus, Fort Moore, Phenix City, and surrounding areas.
The CEL Awards recognize individuals and organizations that embody excellence, service, and leadership in various fields. The categories for this year’s awards are as follows:
Lift Him Up Award
This award honors men in the community who, through their strength and perseverance in their profession, encourage, inspire, and uplift other men to reach their full potential.
Dr. B.J. McBride Youth Award
Named after Dr. B.J. McBride, who served the Muscogee County School District for 41 years, this award celebrates an outstanding youth whose character and actions reflect McBride’s dedication to children and education.
Harold “Lefty” Encarnacion Community Servant Leader Award
In memory of Harold “Lefty” Encarnacion, a pioneering Hispanic business owner and devoted community servant, this award is given annually to a Hispanic individual or organization making a significant impact through service.
Kim Porter Legacy Award
Kimberly Antwinette Porter, an Atlanta native, made a lasting impact by bridging Southern culture with New York and the East Coast arts scene. This award recognizes a local individual who demonstrates excellence in the arts and carries forward her legacy.
Dr. Robert “Bob” Wright Philanthropy Award
This award honors the memory of Dr. Robert Wright, who mentored the Courier Eco Latino's publisher and supported the publication during its early years. The award is presented to an individual who selflessly mentors a Black-owned business owner.
Carl “Brother Love” Hardman Community Activist Award
A longtime columnist and passionate activist, “Brother Love” dedicated his life to grassroots change. This award goes to a community member who mirrors his unwavering commitment to advocacy and justice.
Courier Eco Latino Publisher’s Award
This special recognition is given to an individual who, despite adversity and obstacles, has succeeded through perseverance and faith while remaining committed to uplifting and inspiring their community.
Nominations should include the nominee’s name, contact information, and a brief rationale for their selection. Submissions must be sent to couriereconews@gmail.com with the subject line "Nomination" by 5 p.m. on April 18, 2025.
For more information, visit www.couriernews.org.
