HAPA Awards: A Night To Remember 

The 6th edition HAPA Awards was a night to remember. The stars hit the carpet, awards were presented, and everyone was able to come together to connect their black excellence. 

Tina Weisinger founded the HAPA Awards and decided to bring actors, musicians, comedians, and celebrities together to celebrate outstanding achievements of artists. Tina’s vision is to continue to promote the beauty and richness of Africa and America, while spreading peace around the world.

Family Matters TV star, Darrius McCrary and Former Miss Kenya, Rachel Mbuki Litvishkova hosted the HAPA awards. Darrius McCrary entertained the audience all night long with his vocals and Rachel Mbuki Litvishkova stunned the crowd with her beauty and four stunning outfit changes. 

The legend, Freda Payne received the Hollywood Award for all her accomplishments. Freda Payne was the first female protege of Berry Gordy, pre-Motown. In 1970 she had a hit single called “Band of Gold” that hit number three in the U.S. and certified gold by the RIAA and number one on the UK single chart. “Band of Gold” stayed number one for six weeks straight. We spoke to Freda and she is very grateful for the reward that she received.

Casting Directors Natasha Ward and Peter Wise were both nominated for “Best Casting Director,” and dropped a few gems when talking to us. Natasha spoke about how she was so honored being recognized for her hard work and being amongst her peers. Natasha also shared some words of encouragement for entertainers in the business, she said

“You just have to keep going, just know that you’re great, know that you are a child of God, and this is what you’re supposed to do be doing. You are here for a reason so walk in your purpose and continue, people will see you.”

Peter Wise also was excited about his nomination. He said “He loves how HAPA is bridging the gap between motherland and America, where we come from, in our divine creativity.” He also stated he was excited about the HAPA awards having a category for casting directors because sometimes the public does not know who are the faces behind the scene. 

Peter Wise won Best Casting Director at the HAPA awards.

Newton Mayenge won best supporting actor in a network drama series. Newton told us he was excited about being nominated and always putting your best foot forward. He talked about how he used to play basketball overseas and when he got injured he started looking for other things to do and people would always ask him, “I’ve seen you on TV” and it made him start his acting career. He continues to talk about his journey, he said :

“Nothing is ever easy in life, I always recommend people to put their best foot forward and be prepared. When you have preparation and the opportunity comes that’s when you can be successful.” 

You can catch Newton on HBO Winning Time.

Oumarou Idrissa founder and CEO of Afrikicks came and supported the HAPA awards. Oumarou provides shoes for kids in Africa. So far his company Africks has provided 1.3 million toys and school supplies 200,000 shoes for kids in Africa. Afrikicks has been around since 2014 and provides hope and inspiration to those who are most vulnerable.