The Black In Gaming Foundation (BIG) celebrated the accomplishments of Black professionals across the v during the 2026 BIG Awards ceremony, recognizing a group of trailblazers whose work continues to shape the future of the medium.
Held annually, the BIG Awards highlight leaders, creators, and advocates whose contributions span development, media, art, programming, education, and community impact. The 2026 ceremony was hosted by iAsia Brown and featured nine honorees whose work is helping drive greater representation and opportunity across the gaming space.
Among the night’s biggest honors, Lisette Montgomery received the Gerald “Jerry” Lawson Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing a career of lasting influence within the industry. The award is named after legendary engineer Jerry Lawson and has previously been presented to notable figures including Reggie Fils-Aimé and Sarah Bond.
2026 BIG Awards Honorees
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Gerald “Jerry” Lawson Lifetime Achievement Award: Lisette Montgomery
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Excellence in Education Award: Akil Fletcher
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Excellence in Media Award: Stephanie Ijoma
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Excellence in Artistry Award: Danielle Wallace
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Excellence in Programming Award: Jarryd Huntley
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Indie Developer Award: Adanna Nedd
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Industry Champion Award: Alice Winter
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Industry Spotlight Award: Destinee Cleveland
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Social and Economic Change Award: iAsia Brown
According to Trinidad Hermida, Chairwoman of the Board for the Black in Gaming Foundation, the 2026 honorees represent a powerful example of leadership and progress within the industry.
The ceremony also recognized the support of event partners including Sony Interactive Entertainment, International Game Developers Association Foundation, a16z Cultural Leadership Fund, and Gameheads.
Founded to expand representation and opportunity within gaming, the Black in Gaming Foundation continues its mission of supporting Black professionals through mentorship, career development, and community initiatives designed to elevate the next generation of talent.