Notable community leaders, celebrities and entertainers attended this year’s McDonald’s 365Black Awards, held Saturday at the New Orleans Theater in the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center.

They were joined by spectators who converged to salute this year’s recipients of the award, including civil rights activist the Rev. Al Sharpton; film producer Will Packer; music executive Kevin Liles; inspirational leader Iyanla Vanzant; former NFL athlete Dhani Jones; and McDonald’s owner / operator Henry Coaxum.

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Additionally, artist Skyler Grey and entrepreneur Gabrielle Jordan Williams were recognized alongside this lineup with the first-ever McDonald’s 365Black Community Choice Youth Award.

McDonald’s 365Black Awards are given annually to salute outstanding individuals who are committed to making positive contributions that strengthen the African-American community.

The program launched in 2003 as an extension of the company’s 365Black platform, created to celebrate the pride, heritage and achievements of African Americans year-round.

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This year’s event was hosted by actor / television host Terrence ‘J’ Jenkins and actress Tika Sumpter and was held in conjunction with ESSENCE Festival presented by Coca-Cola.

Those who missed the live awards ceremony can share in the experience by watching the broadcast on BET Networks on August 10 at 10 p.m. EDT/9 p.m. CDT. The awards ceremony will also air on CENTRIC on August 17 at 11 p.m. EDT/10 p.m. CDT.

BET Networks, a subsidiary of Viacom Inc. (NASDAQ: VIA, VIAB), is a leading provider of entertainment, music, news and public affairs television programming for the African-American audience.

In the picture above: Singer / actress Michelle Williams presented during the 11th annual McDonald’s 365Black Awards, held at the New Orleans Theater, July 5.