2025 Griot Drum Awards & Scholarship Ceremony

Join the Tampa Bay Association of Black Journalists for our annual Griot Drum Awards & Scholarship Ceremony on Thursday, November 13, 2025 at 6 p.m.

Hosted by WTSP 10 Tampa Bay news anchor and investigative reporter Emerald Morrow, the event is a celebration of excellence in local media, education, culture and community.

This year's program will include:

• A cocktail reception at the Le Méridien grand staircase
• Dinner and networking with Tampa Bay’s media and community leaders
• Awards program honoring outstanding journalists for their coverage of local Black communities
• Scholarship presentations to the next generation of storytellers
• Special recognition of Tampa Bay’s legendary Griots: Fred Hearns, Gwen Henderson (posthumously), Attorney Arthenia L. Joyner, Gwendolyn Reese, and State Senator Darryl Rouson
• A silent auction full of unique items and experiences

We are pleased to bring journalist, author and media leader Kevin Merida to deliver an inspiring keynote for the evening. Merida is a contributing essayist for The Washington Post and former executive editor of the Los Angeles Times.

Grab your tickets or tables and make plans to join us for an awesome night of celebration!

A cash bar will be available.