Fondation Dynastie—an organization that rewards creators from Quebec’s Black communities who work in the cultural, entertainment, and media industries—is pleased to announce the finalists for the Prix Médias Dynastie as well as Gala Dynasties 6th edition. In total, roughly 100 artists and media representatives have been nominated. The winners of the first edition of the Prix Médias will be announced at a ceremony to be held on February 27 at the Théâtre Paradoxe. Gala Dynastie celebrates the accomplishments of creators in the cultural and artistic circles of Quebec’s Black communities and will be held on March 5, 2022, at Théâtre Maisonneuve. The public will be able to attend both virtual events free of charge.
Prix Médias Dynastie | Noir Futur
Celebrating the perseverance and impact of media-industry professionals the first edition of the Prix Médias Dynastie will feature “Noir Futur” as its theme, which is presented in collaboration with Natyf TV, and will highlight daring, inspiring creators in media. Ten personalities will be awarded prizes during the ceremony hosted by Naadei, a multidisciplinary artist at the helm of the Quebec adaptation of the popular reality show Love Island. The event will be interspersed with playful sketches produced by Natyf TV, as well as musical performances by artists Dramatik, Odreii, Zach Zoya, Randy & Cruzito, and Joyce N’sana.
Prix Médias Dynastie
Ten (10) awards will be handed out in the following categories:
● Web Personality of the Year
● Webzine of the Year
● Web Series or Webcast of the Year
● Podcast of the Year
● Radio Host of the Year
● TV Host of the Year
● Journalist of the Year (Print)
● Editorialist of the Year (Print)
● Journalist/Reporter of the Year (TV/Radio)
● Events Reporter of the Year (TV/Radio)
“Media plays a crucial role in any democracy. It’s responsible for educating and raising public awareness about a variety of societal issues. That said, it’s important that a plurality of voices be heard and be able to debate issues with sensitivity and respect. The Prix Médias Dynastie not only makes it possible to discover exceptional talent from Black communities who are part of Quebec’s cultural and media landscape but also to underline the importance of diversity and representation in media,” noted Cyrille Ekwalla, co-chair of Fondation Dynastie.
Gala Dynastie | Noir Culture Showcasing Black culture in all its forms
While the last edition exceptionally highlighted the commitment of personalities and organizations campaigning for rights, freedoms, and the emancipation of Black communities, this year the Gala is going back to its roots. Over a dozen cultural and artistic personalities from Quebec’s French- and English-speaking Black communities will be honored as part of this major celebration to mark the end of each year’s Black History Month.
For the fourth year in a row, hosting duties for this annual TD-backed awards ceremony will be entrusted to none other than comedian Preach. He will be joined on-stage by DJ Sweet La Rock and several artists performing throughout the evening, including Kelly Krow, Alan Prater, Lost, Djely Tapa, and Yama Laurent. The event’s musical component is presented by the Conseil des arts de Montréal.
Gala Dynastie
Fourteen (14) awards will be handed out in the following categories:
● World-Music Act of the Year
● Anglophone Musical Act of the Year
● Francophone Musical Act of the Year
● Musical Newcomer of the Year
● Artist or Group Making Their Mark on the International Scene
● Filmmaker/Director of the Year
● Visual Artist of the Year
● Comedian of the Year
● Author/Writer of the Year
● Music Video of the Year
● Dancer / Dance Troupe of the Year
● Actor of the Year (Theatre)
● Actor of the Year (TV & Film)
● People’s Choice (from among the finalists for the Prix Médias and Gala Dynastie)
“These talented creators are getting noticed both in and outside of Quebec. They help showcase Black culture in all its forms. It’s important to acknowledge and celebrate such success stories. These artists are a source of inspiration to the younger generation. They make it so the youth can believe that anything is possible,” said Margaret Archer, co-chair of Fondation Dynastie’s board of directors.
“In a year where everything was still virtual, Black community organizations across Canada continued to adapt, innovate, and advocate for change,” said Sylvie Demers, Chair, Quebec Market, TD Bank Group. “Through the TD Ready Commitment, we are proud to support initiatives like Gala Dynastie that bring people together and help to empower, inspire, and further, strengthen Black communities.”
“Artists have been hit hard by the pandemic. Despite all the upheaval they’ve faced, they were able to persevere and continue to produce their art against all odds. Through this gala, we’d like to honor the work of these committed visionaries and creators who express their visions of the world. Their journey and their achievements deserve to be shared and acknowledged,” said Carla Beauvais, co-founder of Fondation Dynastie.
People’s Choice
At each edition, the public can choose their favorite personality by voting in the People’s Choice competition. Voters will be able to choose from among the finalists for the Prix Médias and Gala Dynastie. The People’s Choice competition is presented by Ubisoft. To participate, simply text the word “BLACK” to 438-701-1188.
The Prix Médias Dynastie and Gala Dynastie are made possible thanks to the invaluable support of several partners and sponsors, including TD Bank, Bell, the City of Montreal, SODED, Clarins, the Conseil des arts de Montréal, and the Round Table on Black History Month.
About Fondation Dynastie
Fondation Dynastie was created in 2016 and actively campaigns to promote diversity and inclusion in the arts, culture, and media. Through various cultural-mediation initiatives, it addresses diversity issues and puts forth actions to reduce disparities in representation of Black communities in culture.
About Gala Dynastie
Gala Dynastie is presented as part of the end of Black History Month celebrations. The event aims to reward individuals from Quebec’s Black communities who have distinguished themselves in the arts or culture—and whose work and accomplishments are deserving of recognition.
About the Prix Médias Dynastie
The Prix Médias Dynastie aims to celebrate the talent and creativity of media professionals from Black communities. prixmediasdynastie.com