InnaStar Trailblazer Awards 'celebrate expression,' honor Black and Latino artists

ALLENTOWN, Pa. — Sparkling dresses, sharp suits and a roaring sense of excitement filled Archer Music Hall during the annual InnaStar Trailblazer Awards — a night dedicated to celebrating Black and Latino artists across the Lehigh Valley.

The red-carpet ceremony, founded by actress and film producer Jacinth Headlam, shone a spotlight on creativity and leadership in the arts, entertainment and the community.

Now in its fourth year, the event recognized excellence across 17 categories, honoring everyone from seasoned entrepreneurs, actors, models, and filmmakers to emerging young talent.

The Saturday night gala opened with a dynamic ensemble medley inspired by "The Lion King" and featured the music of Beyoncé.

InnaStar Empowers Marginalized Creators to Find Their Voices Through the Power of Storytelling 

With the support of the United Way’s FRJE grant, InnaStar continues to break new ground in empowering individuals through various initiatives and programs.

One of InnaStar’s signature programs is the Trailblazer Awards, an annual event that celebrates and honors individuals who have made significant strides in their personal and professional lives, serving as role models for others in the community. This year’s award ceremony is on Saturday, Oct. 5, at the Miller Symphony Hall in Allentown.

The grant has also funded workshops like the Acting/On-Camera workshop and the InnaStar Glow: Confidence Workshop, both of which teach students valuable skills in public speaking, presentation and self-expression. These classes have not only been conducted locally but have also had an international impact, reaching students in Nigeria and the Cayman Islands.

The InnaStar Trailblazer Awards highlights the talents of Black, Latino artists, leaders

ALLENTOWN, Pa. — Young actors and a Grammy-winning hip-hop artist shared the stage at the InnaStar Trailblazers Awards on Saturday at Miller Symphony Hall.

The star-studded ceremony, founded by Jacinth Headlam and now in its third year, focuses on celebrating creativity and excellence in arts, entertainment and leadership.

The audience stood on its feet, danced and cheered as honorees of this year's ceremony belted out some of their biggest hits.

Performing live sets were rapper and Grammy winner Mr. Cheeks, house music vocalist Lady Alma ("Let it Fall"), R&B crooner Sammie ("Kiss Me Through the Phone") and Colombian singer Engell Melody.

" I appreciate the love and support through all the years. New music [is] on the way," Mr. Cheeks, a former member of the hip-hop group Lost Boyz, said before performing the group's 1996 hit "Renee."

Dream Big, Dream Bold, Dream Endless" with JAcinth Headlam | Influence Unplugged

Lindsay Watson is joined by JAcinth Headlam, an actor, producer, and author who's determined to create her own success and help form an entertainment hub in the Lehigh Valley. JAcinth talks about the Innastar Trailblazer Awards and what inspired her to start them.

JAcinth also highlights the need to support the next generation of entertainers. She shares details about her film Love After the Holidays and the work that went into making and distributing it.

Influence Unplugged: Celebrating Black Legacy is a powerful series celebrating Black history and greatness. The show highlights remarkable stories of African American leadership, creativity, and contributions shaping our community and beyond.

InnaStar Trailblazer Awards recognize community's finest

The InnaStar Trailblazer Awards recognize excellence in the arts and more.  This year is the second year and features some new elements including a ribbon cutting by the Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce.  WFMZ's Jaciel Cordoba spoke with the founder of InnaStar on 69 News at Sunrise. 

The 4th Annual InnaStar Trailblazer Awards Gala Returns to Allentown on October 18, 2025

The InnaStar Trailblazer Awards are more than a gala. They are a movement. Proceeds from the evening support InnaStar’s year-round creative arts and empowerment programs, including youth filmmaking workshops, confidence-building initiatives, and mental wellness programs for underserved communities.

Gala to honor trailblazers in entertainment industry, local community at Archer Music Hall

Trailblazers in the entertainment industry and our community will be honored at Allentown's Archer Music Hall next Saturday.

Jacinth Headlam, founder and CEO of the 4th annual Innastar Trailblazer Awards Gala, joined 69 News at Sunrise Thursday morning to tell us more.

She discussed the focus of this celebration, and who some of the honorees are this year.

Innastar Trailblazer Awards recognize unsung heroes

The Innastar Trailblazer Awards is set to kick off its third annual celebration of talent in various artistic fields.  WFMZ's Jaciel Cordoba spoke with the event's host and producer on 69 News at Sunrise. 

Make a Difference

InnaStar is a 501c3 nonprofit organization. Your investment in this generation of history-makers and trailblazers comes with an exciting set of benefits and privileges.

This sponsorship package provides you with a wealth of brand exposure, name recognition, and logo placement, keeping your name and brand at the forefront! All donations for InnaStar Youth Creative Programming & Workshops are greatly appreciated.