Viola Davis Honors Jacqueline Avant, Shares Powerful Story of Overcoming Adversity
Viola Davis, the acclaimed actress, delivered a heartfelt acceptance speech at the HollyRod Foundation DesignCare 2024 Gala, where she was honored with the Jacqueline Avant HollyRod Humanitarian Award. The award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to their communities and beyond.
A Tribute to Jacqueline Avant
Before presenting the award to Davis, Holly Robinson Peete, the founder of the HollyRod Foundation, paid tribute to Jacqueline Avant, the wife of music executive Clarence Avant. Jacqueline was a founding donor of the foundation and a beloved figure in the entertainment industry. Peete described Avant as a “true champion of generosity, love, and philanthropy.”
Kelly Rowland Presents the Award
Singer Kelly Rowland presented the award to Davis, praising her for her talent, resilience, and commitment to making a difference in the world. Rowland noted that Davis perfectly exemplifies the spirit of the award, named after Jacqueline Avant.
Viola Davis’ Acceptance Speech
In her acceptance speech, Davis shared a powerful and personal story of her childhood. She revealed that she was often called the N-word more times than her own name, and that she grew up in abject poverty. Despite these challenges, Davis was able to overcome adversity and achieve great success.
Davis emphasized the importance of self-love and resilience. She encouraged the audience to focus on their six-year-old selves and their 80-year-old selves. She stressed that everyone owes it to themselves to be kind and compassionate to themselves.
Davis’ Philanthropic Work
Davis’ philanthropic efforts are inspired by her own experiences. She is an ambassador for Hunger Is, which aims to end childhood hunger, and she supports several other organizations, including Children’s Hunger Alliance, Soles4Souls, and Friendly House.
Davis has also given back to her alma mater and her hometown library, demonstrating her commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.
A Message of Hope and Inspiration
Davis’ speech was a powerful message of hope and inspiration. She shared her personal story of overcoming adversity and encouraged others to do the same. She emphasized the importance of love, kindness, and compassion.
Additional Honorees
In addition to Viola Davis, several other individuals were honored at the HollyRod Foundation Gala. Artist Morgan Harper Nichols and athlete-professional speaker Jason McElwain received HollyRod Hero Awards. Dr. Chantale Branson, a neurologist and movement disorders specialist, was presented with the Muhammad Ali Trailblazer Award. Camille Proctor and Nadine Wright-Arbubakkr, founders of The Color of Autism and Nassan’s Place, received the Karen E. Smith Angel on the Path Awards. EMT Eric Aquino was recognized with the Matthew Robinson Jr. Award of Courage. And KultureCity founders Dr. Julian Maha and Dr. Michele Kong received the HollyRod Corporate Champion Award.
A Successful Event
The HollyRod Foundation Gala was a successful event, attended by over 500 guests. The evening featured a fashion show, an auction, and a performance by the ’90s R&B group After 7.
