
June 9
TD Pavilion
Voices of Hope: An Event in Celebration of Black Excellence returns to our stage on June 9, 2025! This annual event honors Philadelphia’s trailblazers who embody a culture of compassion and positive change. In 2025, Voices of Hope explores the theme "We Rise: Perseverance, Strength, and Determination." This year’s honorees embody these values, uplifting and guiding the Philadelphia community and beyond through their dedication and leadership.
This year, the Mann celebrates the following honorees:
- Representative Jordan A. Harris
186th District, Pennsylvania House of Representatives - Dr. Tony B. Watlington Sr.
Superintendent, The School District of Philadelphia - Rosalyn J. McPherson
President & CEO, The ROZ Group, Inc - The Links, Incorporated
Zakiya Black Barnett, President, Philadelphia Chapter
Kimberly Bridges-White, President, Penn Towne Chapter
Renee Smith, President, Delaware Valley Chapter
100.3 WRNB host and journalist Ashley Maclin, also known as ASHMAC, will host the ceremony. Dixie James, President, Central Region of Jefferson Health, will deliver the keynote speech. The evening will also feature various musical performances by Philadelphia-based artists, curated by hip-hop artist Chill Moody.
Complimentary light refreshments are available on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Pre-Ceremony Celebration: 6:00PM
Presented By
The Mann
Artists, repertoire, and content subject to change.
All Ages
Prelude in the Plaza
In partnership with Mural Arts
Community Mural Activity
DJ FaxOnly
Welcome Remarks
Ashley Maclin, also known as, Ash Mac
Ceremony Host
Opening Remarks
Catherine M. Cahill
President & CEO, Mann Center for the Performing Arts
Artist Performance
Lou Williams Jr.
Kayla Childs
Keynote Speaker
Dixie James
Central Region President, Jefferson Health
Voices of Hope Innovation Award for Community Impact
Representative Jordan A. Harris
186th District, Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Artist Performance
Balmour
Voices of Hope Innovation Award for Inspirational Excellence
Dr. Tony B. Watlington, Sr.
Superintendent, The School District of Philadelphia
Voices of Hope Innovation Award for Cultural Advocacy
Rosalyn J. McPherson
President & CEO, The ROZ Group, Inc
Artist Performance
Stephan Burse
Voices of Hope Innovation Award for Community Convener
The Links, Incorporated
PHILADELPHIA CHAPTER
Zakiya Black Barnett, President
PENN TOWNE CHAPTER
Kimberly Bridges-White, President
DELAWARE VALLEY CHAPTER
Renee Smith, President
Artist Performance
Carla Gamble
Closing Remarks
Ashley Maclin, also known as, Ash Mac