The 19th Annual Queen City Awards (QCA) once again proved why it remains one of the most respected platforms for independent talent across music, film, radio, comedy, modelling, business, and community leadership. This year’s ceremony delivered powerful moments of cultural celebration, with ATL ONFIYA—a growing media platform with an expanding international reach—spotlighting standout achievements and the individuals who shaped this year’s landmark event.
A Legacy Nearly Two Decades Strong
For almost twenty years, the Queen City Awards has been driven by the vision and dedication of founder Kevan Glover. His commitment to creating an authentic stage for independent artists has made the QCA a staple event within creative communities across the globe. ATL ONFIYA extended special congratulations to Glover, celebrating his continued leadership and the event’s enduring impact.
The 19th edition once again highlighted the cultural heartbeat of the Carolinas—an energy rooted in creativity, diversity, and community upliftment.
King Yahweh Receives Global Humanitarian Honour
One of the most significant highlights of the evening was the presentation of the Global Humanitarian Award to King Yahweh. His philanthropic work across multiple continents embodies the values of service, empowerment, and global leadership.
King Yahweh also sat down with ATL ONFIYA for an exclusive interview with presenter K-SWAB, sharing insights into his mission and the importance of humanitarian work in today’s world.
Recognising Excellence Across Creative Genres
The ceremony celebrated a wide range of artistic achievements:
- 803 Fresh, known as “Mr. Boots on the Ground,” won Southern Soul Male Artist of the Year, continuing to elevate the Southern Soul genre.
- Music legends Jimmy Brown of Brick and Curtis Reynolds of Ripple received the prestigious Icon Awards, acknowledging decades of influence in funk, soul, and R&B.
- K-SWAB presented both the Humanitarian and Icon Awards, reinforcing ATL ONFIYA’s mission to highlight cultural legends and emerging creatives alike.
Official Winners of the 19th Queen City Awards
Icon Award
• Jimmy Brown (Brick)
• Curtis Reynolds (Ripple)
Humanitarian Award
• King Yahweh
Southern Soul Male Artist of the Year
• 803 Fresh
Southern Soul Female Artist of the Year
• Charmeka Joquelle
Author of the Year
• Dr. Ericka McKnight
Small Business of the Year
• Charlotte Cowboys
Actress of the Year
• Epiphany Anderson
Actor of the Year
• Quasheem Herring
Filmmaker of the Year
• Marcus Massey
Country Artist of the Year (Male)
• Walter Finley
Country Artist of the Year (Female)
• Donna Hughes
Country Group of the Year
• Gal Friday Band
Hip Hop Artist of the Year (Male)
• J Breezy
Hip Hop Artist of the Year (Female)
• Mary Mack
Hip Hop Group of the Year
• Rawallty
R&B Artist of the Year (Male)
• Akevius
R&B Artist of the Year (Female)
• Venegas2U
Rock Artist of the Year (Male)
• Jordan Mattacchione
Rock Artist of the Year (Female)
• Mikaela Salazar
Rock Group of the Year
• Phuket Johnson
Gospel Artist of the Year (Male)
• Melvin Crispell III
Gospel Artist of the Year (Female)
• Cassandra O’Neal
Producer of the Year
• Flip Banguh
DJ of the Year
• DeeJay Trap
Female Model of the Year
• La La tha Model
Videographer of the Year
• Vision V Films
Photographer of the Year
• Shots By Jay
Radio Station of the Year
• Power 98
Radio Show of the Year
• The Olympia D Show
Podcast of the Year
• No Advisory Podcast
New Artist of the Year
• Mone’t Symone
Youth Artist of the Year
• Van Van
Poetry in Motion Award
• B Poetic
Comedian of the Year
• Kayla Kandi
A Celebration Felt Across the Globe
The 19th Queen City Awards serves as a reminder of the power of grassroots platforms to elevate emerging creators, honour cultural leaders, and inspire international audiences. ATL ONFIYA continues to amplify these voices, strengthening connections between creative communities worldwide.
To learn more about ATL ONFIYA, visit:
https://www.atlonfiya.com/
Special shout-out to Darryl Dayson for providing the food sponsorship at The Chicken Box, adding an unforgettable touch to the event experience.
© 2025, Harry James. All rights reserved.
