Italy Names Its Change-Makers: Highlights from the Black Carpet Awards 2025

As the lights dimmed and the spotlights flickered to life, the Teatro Manzoni resonated with the celebration of the Black Carpet Awards, now in its third edition. This year’s theme, “Leaders of Change,” recognized influential figures reshaping the landscape of fashion and culture to emphasize inclusion, accessibility, and social impact. Hosted by the Afro Fashion Association, and supported by the City of Milan and the National Chamber of Italian Fashion, the event transformed into a vibrant manifesto, uniting fashion, culture, and progressive thought on one stage.

Michelle Francine Ngonmo, the visionary founder of the Afro Fashion Association, took the opportunity to commemorate the association’s remarkable 10-year journey, encouraging attendees to dream ambitiously and, most importantly, build the foundations to turn those dreams into reality. “Invest in these leaders of change,” she passionately articulated, highlighting the importance of community not merely as a trend but as a vital daily engagement. Tamu McPherson, renowned creative and founder of All the Pretty Birds, brought energy to the proceedings as the host for the third consecutive year. The iconic Naomi Campbell joined virtually, expressing her support for “true inclusion, authentic representation, courageous leadership, and creativity with purpose.”

The evening unveiled a genuine narrative: unity as a pathway to healing divides. It was a night affirming how collective strength can transform the creative industries and the social fabric intertwined with them. Below is a detailed summary of the evening’s noteworthy winners:

Leader of Change: Culture

Nogaye Ndia, an esteemed educator and fervent anti-racism advocate, champions the integration of decolonial curricula within educational institutions and community programs throughout Italy, turning theoretical discussions into actionable change.

Mariam Battistelli, a celebrated lyric soprano, earned the audience award for her trailblazing career that has amplified diverse voices on the opera stage.

Leader of Change: Creativity (Vision & Global Impact)

Rediet Longo merges her Ethiopian and Italian heritage by transforming urban walls into artistic canvases, establishing a civic dialogue through murals.

Augusta Carter leverages cultural platforms to surface obstacles in creative education and create opportunities for emerging second-generation artists.

Leader of Change: Community

Aya Mohamed dedicates her efforts to fostering spaces of acknowledgment and cooperation, advancing inclusive civic engagement especially when withdrawal might be an easier choice.

Ronke Oluwadare interprets “community” as a call to action, sharing her extensive networks and advocating for marginalized voices while providing sustained support over time.

Leader of Change: Business & Innovation

Antonio Dikele Distefano integrates his personal experiences into projects that promote social responsibility, expanding accessibility and opportunity within the industry.