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In recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, actress and TV personality Karlie Redd hosted The Inaugural Courageous Awards, a deeply impactful ceremony honoring the strength, resilience, and triumph of domestic abuse survivors throughout the Atlanta community.

Partnering with fellow MTV Love & Hip Hop Atlanta star and serial entrepreneur Yandy Smith-Harris, as well as Councilmember Andrea Boone, Redd created a night dedicated to shining light on the ongoing fight against domestic violence—and celebrating those who have transformed their pain into purpose.

Held on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, at the historic Atlanta City Hall located at 55 Trinity Ave SW, the ceremony united survivors, advocates, officials, and supporters for an evening defined by empowerment, unity, and hope. More than 100 women gathered to stand in solidarity, share healing, and honor remarkable individuals who have emerged as pillars of strength within their communities.

A Night Transformed in Purple

City Hall was beautifully illuminated in shades of purple—the symbolic color of Domestic Violence Awareness Month—thanks to the creative vision of Ladonna Thomas of Kali Soul Events. The evening was presented by Karlie Redd’s Big Heart Foundation, in collaboration with the TLJ Agency, and sponsored by Tierra’s Butterflies 501(c)(3) Non-Profit, Think About It Inc., and Yelle Skin Care. Sheen Magazine and Victoria Attmore served as the official media sponsors.

Celebrity Guests & Opening Speakers Set the Tone

Celebrity guests included Mendeecees Harris, TV personality Mike Jackson, Barkue Tubman-Zawolo (Chief Community Officer of Essence Ventures), restaurateur Ebony Austin, Karlie Redd’s daughter Jasmine Ellis, her granddaughter, and many other notable figures.

The ceremony opened with moving remarks from Pastor and TV Personality Aventer Gray, Councilmember Andrea Boone, and Georgia State Representative Doreen Carter, each reinforcing the importance of community support, advocacy, and safe spaces for survivors.

Attendees were treated to unforgettable performances from violinist Jayna Burton, Grammy-nominated singer/songwriter Travis Malloy, and a soul-stirring choir whose harmonies filled the room with emotion and healing energy.

Honoring Organizations Creating Change

The program featured heartfelt testimonials from Karlie Redd, Yandy Smith-Harris, and courageous survivors who shared their stories with bravery and vulnerability. Several community leaders and organizations received official proclamations for their exceptional work in domestic violence awareness, support, and prevention. Honorees included:

Tamiko Lowry, The Still Standing Alliance Romeo Bartley Jr., Becoming the Change, Inc. Erica Jones, The Vivian Neily Project Kie Fair, Think About It Inc. Dr. Corrine Foster Bristow, CEO, International Queendom, Inc. Alma G. Davis, Alma Domestic Violence Foundation Martine Desmolieres, Going Out Divine, Inc. The Honorable Erica Thomas Adeyemi

Each honoree was celebrated for transforming advocacy into meaningful change and offering life-saving resources to survivors in need.

A Message of Strength, Visibility, and Commitment

The evening was not only a celebration of survival—it was a call to action. Through shared stories and collective unity, the event emphasized the importance of continued advocacy and accessible resources for those affected by domestic violence.

“This event is deeply personal and critically important for our community,” said Karlie Redd. “By honoring these courageous individuals, we are not only celebrating their journey but also sending a powerful message that they are seen, heard, and supported. We hope to inspire others who may be in similar situations to seek help and find their own path to safety and healing.”

Yandy Smith-Harris echoed the urgency and purpose of the evening.

“The fight to end domestic violence requires all of us—elected officials, community leaders, and residents—to stand together,” said Smith-Harris. “Hosting this ceremony at City Hall symbolizes our unwavering commitment to addressing this issue head-on and providing resources and support to those in need. I am proud of what Councilmember Boone, Karlie Redd, Shenequa Scott, and I accomplished tonight in honoring these brave survivors.”