2026 Honorees

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GRAND MARSHALS

J. Alexander Martin is an entrepreneur, cultural visionary, and co-founder of the iconic lifestyle brand FUBU (For Us, By Us), a pioneering company that helped redefine the global fashion industry while celebrating Black entrepreneurship, creativity, and culture. Through his leadership, FUBU grew into a billion-dollar brand that inspired generations and demonstrated the power of ownership and authentic storytelling.

Today, Martin serves as the CEO of the For Us By Us Network, a media platform dedicated to amplifying Black voices, businesses, and culture through original programming, strategic partnerships, and community engagement. A passionate advocate for economic empowerment and creative innovation, he continues to mentor emerging entrepreneurs while building opportunities that uplift communities and preserve cultural legacy.

In recognition of his enduring contributions to business, culture, and community, J. Alexander Martin is honored to participate in the 57th Annual African American Day Parade, celebrating excellence, leadership, and the lasting impact of those who continue to inspire future generations.

Cheryl McKissack Daniel is Chair of the Board of McKissack & McKissack, the oldest minority- and woman-owned design and construction firm in the nation. She previously served as President & CEO from 2000 to 2025. A fifth-generation builder and author of The Black Family Who Built America (Simon &Schuster, August 2025), she carries forward her family’s 230-year legacy while shaping the future of infrastructure, equity, and generational wealth.

A civil engineer with more than 30 years of experience, Cheryl has overseen over $50 billion in construction, leading projects that have transformed skylines and communities nationwide. Her firm’s portfolio includes the NewTerminal One at JFK International Airport, LaGuardia Central Terminal Building Redevelopment, Columbia University’s Manhattanville Expansion, Coney Island Hospital Campus Renovation, the Lincoln and Harlem Hospitals, and consulting for the MTA—the nation’s largest transit system.

Her book traces her family’s journey from enslavement to entrepreneurship, highlighting the McKissack’s pioneering contributions to American architecture and construction while underscoring the broader truth that Black families have been foundational builders of America.

A proud Howard University alumna, Cheryl continues to lead with vision and preparedness—honoring her family’s history while shaping the future of the built environment.

 Chef Charles Gabriel was born on Sunday, October 12, 1947 in Huntersville, North Carolina to hard working parents. As in so many stories of acquired greatness, he too was birthed in struggle with the motivation to succeed against all odds. 

    Chef Charles destination of greatness was groomed in humble beginnings which taught him the essentials of hard work and responsibility. Chef Charles had 19 siblings.  He and his siblings had to commit to picking cotton in the cotton fields with their parents.  After long day's of picking cotton, he and his family would all cook together, each child having a specific responsibility. At the age of 8, Chef was responsible for cooking the chicken. This responsibility included going to the chicken coop, picking a chicken, killing, plucking and preparing it for cooking. Chef Charle’s remained committed to this household responsibility until the age of 19.  It was through his continued commitment and dedication to his family responsibility, juxtaposed with his mother's tutelage that he was able to master the art and skillset of Pan-fried Chicken.

     At the age of 19, Chef Charles migrated to Harlem, New York.  He came with the purpose to work at his brother Hollis' restaurant named Gab Restaurant. Charles then went to work at Copeland’s, at 547 West 145th Street, between Broadway and Amsterdam Avenue. Eventually, he would venture on his own and start cooking and selling plates of food out of his home kitchen. After saving enough money, Chef Charles bought a table and started selling his food outside in front of his building. Subsequently, he saved enough money to purchase a food truck which allowed for him to eventually purchase his first brick and mortar on 153rd Street and 8th Avenue.  The name of his restaurant was Charles Country Pan-fried Chicken.  Chef Charles eventually acquired his second location at 2461 Frederick Douglass Boulevard as he continued to rise to Chef stardom in the Harlem community.  Following a similar format birthed in the South, he continued the responsibilities of planning, preparing and managing his food preparation. He labored daily for hours often getting only 4 hours of sleep before repeating the process all over again. For more than 30 years this was the daily routine of Chef Charles which produced greatness and the continued success of his business.

     As in any business venture Chef Charles experienced ups and downs but always braved the storm valiantly and successfully.  Unfortunately, the pandemic brought about a different set of circumstances.  These circumstances culminated in the closing of Chef's two restaurants, leaving the Harlem community void of one of their beloved restaurants.  While the world continued to travel through its dark pandemic journey, Chef Charles was trudging on through his own. Through his dark journey he never gave up and continued looking for the light. Chef Charles is coming back with not one, not two, but three new locations, 340 West 145th Street /146 West 72nd/125th Street

 Chef Charles Gabriel and Chef Quie Slobert his COO, will bring Harlem an enhanced version of Charles Pan-fried Chicken. With a new look and new additions to the menu, he cannot wait to reintroduce himself to the world.

Michael A. Preston is a native New Yorker, entrepreneur, and community leader. He is the Co-Founder and Vice President of Government Affairs and Customer Experience for Paradise Express Ferry, LLC, the only Black-owned maritime corporation in New York City and operator of the Harlem Rocket the Hazel N. Dukes sightseeing vessel.

For more than 30 years, Mr. Preston has served on the Board of Directors of HARLEM WEEK, Inc., where he has helped coordinate governmental affairs, vendor compliance, and event operations. He is also Executive Producer of Bar Daddy: The Al Jenkins Story, a documentary celebrating the life and legacy of attorney Alfred “Al” Jenkins.

Through business, cultural engagement, and community service, Michael Preston has dedicated his career to creating opportunities, preserving culture, and strengthening the communities he serves.

2026 Marshals

Arva is President & CEO of the New York Urban League (NYUL) an organization that has a rich history and long legacy of service to New Yorkers. Today, the mission of the NYUL is to enable African Americans and other underserved communities to secure a first- class education, economic self-reliance and equal respect of their civil rights through programs, services and advocacy. Arva Rice has more than 25 years experience in the non-profit arena, ranging from working with New York City entrepreneurs in a micro lending program to working with young people as a counselor, mentor and tutor.

Most recently Arva was nominated by Mayor Eric Adams as Interim Chair of the Civilian Complaint Review Board. She currently serves as Co-Chair of the NYC City Council Recharter Commission and a Trustee at First Corinthians Baptist Church. She graduated from Northwestern University in Evanston, IL and lives in Harlem.

Brother-Michael Katlow Cox is a distinguished figure in the fields of media production, photography, and community engagement, with a career spanning over four decades. His contributions have significantly influenced the cultural and artistic landscape of New York City, emphasizing the importance of storytelling, legacy preservation, and underrepresented voices. Professional Background and Achievements.

As the founder and CEO of Memorie 4 Life Photography LLC, Brother-Michael specializes in capturing moments that preserve personal and cultural histories. His company is renowned for its elegant and emotionally resonant photography, ranging from portraits to red carpet events, which serve as visual legacies for individuals and communities.

In addition to his photography enterprise, he serves as the Executive Producer of PIPE TV, a platform dedicated to authentic storytelling and cultural expression. Under his leadership, PIPE TV has garnered multiple awards, including the BRIC TV B Free People’s Choice Award in 2025 for TV and Podcast Audio, and the People’s Choice Award at the B Free Award 2023 for the show On The Move with Mz. Tonni. These accolades highlight his ability to produce compelling content that resonates with diverse audiences.

Brother-Michael also holds the position of Editor-In-Chief of Photography Insight Plus Magazine, a publication that showcases visual storytelling and interviews with artists across various disciplines. The magazine aims to elevate artistic excellence and foster dialogue within the creative community.

Educational Background and Artistic Philosophy

He is an alumnus of Erasmus Hall High School and LaGuardia Community College, where he studied Computer Science. This blend of technical knowledge and artistic skill informs his approach to media production, allowing him to innovate and adapt in a rapidly evolving industry.

Impact and Recognition

Throughout his career, Brother-Michael has mentored emerging talent, supporting the growth of new voices in photography, media, and the arts. His work has earned numerous awards, including multiple film festival recognitions for projects such as Struggle in America – Unarmed and Black and Struggle In America – The March for Freedom, awarded in 2021 through 2024. These projects reflect his commitment to social justice and cultural documentation.

The Honorable Mari Moss, MPA, is an accomplished public administrator, entrepreneur, community advocate, and economic development strategist dedicated to creating opportunities that strengthen families, businesses, and communities throughout New York City.

Mari currently serves as the elected First Vice Chair of the Citywide Community Action Board (CAB), a leadership body that provides oversight and recommendations for more than $35 million in federal Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) funding serving communities across all five boroughs of New York City. She also serves as a member of Community Action Board Region 9 (East and Central Harlem) and the Neighborhood Advisory Board, where she works to expand economic opportunity and improve the quality of life for residents.

She is the Founder and CEO of Midas Touch Consulting Firm, where she assists nonprofit organizations, small businesses, entrepreneurs, and community institutions with grant writing, business development, fundraising, sponsorship acquisition, business credit development, government contracting, strategic partnerships, and access to capital. Through her work, she has helped organizations position themselves for long-term sustainability and growth.

Mari is also the Founder of the We Love Harlem Initiative, a community-based movement dedicated to preserving Harlem's cultural heritage while advancing economic development, neighborhood revitalization, education, and entrepreneurship.

Her public service career includes work with the New York City Mayor's Office, where she served on the Neighborhood Business Assistance Team (NBAT) and Rapid Business Assistance Team (RBAT) following Superstorm Sandy. During that initiative, she helped assist more than 1,000 businesses, contributed to over $1 billion in economic development, and supported the creation and retention of thousands of jobs throughout New York City.

Throughout her career, Mari has held numerous leadership roles, including service with the End Gender & Domestic-Based Violence Task Force, Manhattan Community Board 10, and as Chair of the School Leadership Team at P.S. 175, where she advocated for educational excellence and stronger partnerships between schools, families, and communities.

She earned a Master of Public Administration from Metropolitan College of New York and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Hampton University.

A proud African American woman and Lenape descendant whose ancestral roots trace back to Manhattan, Mari is committed to preserving history while building a more equitable future. Her work bridges government, nonprofit organizations, philanthropy, and the private sector to create lasting solutions that empower communities.

As a member of the African American Day Parade Business Support Committee, Mari is committed to strengthening Black-owned businesses, increasing access to capital, expanding strategic partnerships, and fostering economic development that creates generational wealth. Her vision is rooted in collaboration, service, and the belief that thriving businesses build stronger families, stronger neighborhoods, and a stronger New York City.

"Honoring Our Past. Building Our Present. Investing in Our Future."

Kathleen Adams is an entrepreneur, brand strategist, and community leader whose career reflects the belief that strong businesses strengthen communities. She is the owner of Angel of Harlem, the acclaimed Harlem restaurant and bar that recently celebrated more than a decade of serving New York City and has been recognized as one of the city’s top brunch destinations.

In addition to leading Angel of Harlem, Kathleen serves as a Brand Strategist at a leading pharmaceutical advertising agency, where she helps global brands build meaningful connections with diverse audiences. Her unique ability to bridge corporate strategy with entrepreneurship has allowed her to create a business that is not only commercially successful but deeply rooted in service.

Under Kathleen’s leadership, Angel of Harlem has become much more than a restaurant. It has served as a gathering place for Harlem’s residents, artists, nonprofits, and civic organizations while supporting countless charitable initiatives throughout the year. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Angel of Harlem partnered with World Central Kitchen to prepared thousands of meals for food-insecure New Yorkers while keeping local hospitality workers employed. Kathleen also trained aspiring culinary professionals through the Stanley M. Isaacs Neighborhood Center, demonstrating her commitment to investing in the next generation of hospitality leaders.

Her commitment to community extends far beyond her business. Kathleen serves as Co-Chair of the Associate Board for the Harlem School of the Arts, is a member of the Steering Committee for the Alvin Ailey Young Patrons Circle, serves on the Fordham University Alumni Association Board, and recently completed her term on the Board of Directors of the New York Junior League. She is also the co-founder of Momma’s Hip Hop Kitchen, a nationally recognized social justice initiative that uses music, food, and culture to raise awareness around reproductive justice and HIV/AIDS. Kathleen is also a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®, where she is a member of the Pi Kappa Omega Chapter.

Kathleen earned dual bachelor’s degrees in Women’s Studies and Urban Studies, with a minor in Environmental Policy, as well as a Master’s degree in Urban Studies from Fordham University.

Originally from Shaker Heights, Ohio, she has proudly called New York City and Harlem home for more than two decades. An avid world traveler known by the moniker #KatchKathleen,

Kathleen has explored more than 70 countries across all seven continents, most recently completing that lifelong goal with a journey to Antarctica. Being named a Marshal for the 57th Annual African American Day Parade is especially meaningful to Kathleen. Her late father, Dr. Ronald A. Adams, was a proud Brooklynite, and attending the African American Day Parade together was one of their cherished traditions. To now be recognized by an institution that celebrates Black excellence, entrepreneurship, and community is both a profound honor and a tribute to the legacy of service, pride, and love forHarlem that her father instilled in her.

Jahkeen “Jah” Washington was born and raised in Harlem, New York, where the community shaped his values, resilience, and sense of purpose. Growing up, he witnessed both the strength of his neighborhood and the challenges that too often prevent people from reaching their full potential. Those experiences inspired a lifelong mission to help people become stronger physically, mentally, and emotionally while creating opportunities for others to succeed.

Fitness became the vehicle for that mission.

Over the past decade, Jahkeen has coached thousands of people from all walks of life, helping them build confidence, improve their health, and discover that strength extends far beyond the weight they lift. His approach is rooted in education, consistency, and creating welcoming spaces where beginners and experienced athletes alike can thrive.

That vision led him to found Harlem Kettlebell Club and later The Harlem Method. Together, these businesses reflect his belief that fitness should be intentional, inclusive, and transformative. More than gyms, they are community spaces where people challenge themselves, build meaningful relationships, and invest in a healthier future.

Jahkeen’s commitment to Harlem extends beyond business. He founded The Laurence B. Smith Scholarship Foundation to honor his late grandfather’s legacy by investing in the next generation of leaders. Each year, the foundation awards scholarships to college-bound student-athletes, helping remove financial barriers and expand access to higher education.

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