Actor and activist Jamie Hector hosted the 17th Annual Moving Mountains Gala on Wednesday (June 11) in Brooklyn, New York, celebrating nearly two decades of life-changing work with underprivileged youth.
The evening, which took place at Bridge 26 in DUMBO, opened with an uplifting performance by the Moving Mountains choir, setting a spirited tone for the ceremony. Reverend A.R. Bradshaw then delivered a heartfelt prayer, sharing the joyous news that his wife is now cancer-free and announcing a generous $25,000 donation to Moving Mountains—drawing a standing ovation from attendees.
The program featured powerful testimonials from current and former Moving Mountains participants, who spoke about the profound impact the organization has had on their lives. One speaker, Domo from the 90s section of East Flatbush, recalled how the program steered him away from crime during his youth, crediting Moving Mountains with changing his perspective on life and his personal evolution as a man.
Others shared stories of becoming college graduates and launching careers in acting, photography, and other creative fields—all under the mentorship of Jamie Hector. His steady guidance was credited as a pillar of their transformation.
The emotional night was punctuated by short theatrical performances, with young actors reenacting scenes from Hamilton, The Greatest Showman, and Textbook Shakespeare, alongside more musical moments from the chorus that stirred laughter and tears in equal measure.
Renowned educator Geoffrey Canada served as keynote speaker, pledging to match tens of thousands of dollars in donations—a move that inspired a flurry of support from guests.
High school graduate Nasir Augustin took the stage with a touching message: “It’s hard to put in words what Moving Mountains meant to me. Gave me a stage to express myself, a place to grow and a family that has supported me every mile of the way.”
Later in the evening, Leoñ presented Malik Yoba with the Dream Builders Award. Yoba, taking the stage to a thunderous ovation after singing “I Was Born by the River”, reflected: “Ain’t this beautiful? Y’all feel community, y’all feel connection.”
His acceptance speech emphasized intentional living, presence, and purpose: “In real time we have to do real work.” He joked that Leoñ never comes out unless it’s a movie premiere or a Knicks game, drawing laughs before shifting to a more serious tone about community accountability.
Rapper and actor Busta Rhymes also spoke candidly about his early years as a Five Percenter, his gratitude for being honored, and his respect for Jamie Hector, Malik Yoba, and Leoñ. “All this craziness we see, put our arm on this younger generation and give them what they need,” he said, acknowledging the late Ananda Lewis as well: “This woman really took on the initiative and responsibility—Ananda Lewis. Rest in peace ‘cause she moved mountains too.”
The night was a stirring celebration of resilience, mentorship, and community—proof that through purpose and commitment, mountains really can be moved.
Here are some photos capturing the 17th Annual Moving Mountains Gala red carpet and other key moments from the event.
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