On the evening of Wednesday, June 11, 2025, Brooklyn came alive with purpose and prestige as actor Jamie Hector hosted the 17th Annual Moving Mountains for the Arts Gala. Held in celebration of creativity, community, and cultural excellence, the star-studded affair was emceed by NBC’s Kay Angrum and spotlighted achievements across music, performing arts, dance, sports, and philanthropy.
This year’s gala honored three influential figures whose work continues to uplift and inspire. Hip hop pioneer Busta Rhymes received the Hip Hop Icon Award, presented by Mona Scott-Young. Three-time WNBA champion Breanna Stewart was celebrated with the Athlete Icon Award, presented by Hector himself. Actor and activist Malik Yoba was honored with the Dream Maker Icon Award, presented by legendary performer LEON.
The evening’s energy soared with vibrant performances from Moving Mountains youth, whose acting, singing, and dance showcases brought the audience to its feet, underscoring the transformative power of the organization’s work.
Among the distinguished guests in attendance were Reverend Dr. A.R. Bernard, Harlem Children’s Zone CEO Jeffrey Canada, actor Chad L. Coleman, Councilwoman Rita Joseph, and actress Alfie Fuller, all unified in support of Hector’s mission to uplift the next generation.
Founded in 2007 by Jamie Hector, Moving Mountains Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit committed to offering free, professional-level arts training to inner-city youth. Through rigorous instruction in acting, dance, and singing, the organization emphasizes discipline, artistic excellence, and personal growth, providing young people with the tools to dream bigger and rise higher.
Graduates of the program have gone on to thrive in film, television, theater and production; a testament to the power of opportunity and the importance of investing in tomorrow’s visionaries.