01 · Faith
Best Church
The houses of worship feeding, mentoring and steadying their neighborhoods seven days a week.
Winner receives the Excel Award
Each category winner is presented with the Excel Award on stage, following a video montage of that category's nominees and their contributions to the community.
The Excel Award
One award, every category. The Excel Award is a gold microphone statuette on a fluted column and engraved base — handed to each winner on stage in Atlanta.
02 · Education
Best High School
Schools whose educators refuse to let a zip code decide how far a student can go.
Winner receives the Excel Award
03 · Culture
Best Barbershop
The corner institutions where the community gets sharp, gets heard and gets hired.
Winner receives the Excel Award
04 · Beauty
Best Beauty Salon
Chairs that double as businesses, classrooms and confidence factories.
Winner receives the Excel Award
05 · Food & Beverage
Best Restaurant
Kitchens serving the flavor of the city and putting the neighborhood on payroll.
Winner receives the Excel Award
06 · Impact
Best Community Leader
The organizers, mentors and advocates who show up long after the cameras leave.
Winner receives the Excel Award
07 · Artistry
Best Hair Designer
Stylists whose work walks red carpets, church aisles and school hallways alike.
Winner receives the Excel Award
08 · Media
Best Social Media Influencer
Digital voices using their reach to lift businesses, causes and young talent.
Winner receives the Excel Award
09 · Entertainment
Best Reality TV Actress
On-screen personalities carrying the culture of Atlanta to a national audience.
Winner receives the Excel Award
10 · Entertainment
Best Reality TV Actor
Talent turning visibility into opportunity for the people back home.
Winner receives the Excel Award
Special Honor
Redemption Honoree
Honoring individuals who have served prison time and returned to make a positive impact in their communities.
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