Koshie Mills, founder of The Diaspora Dialogues, a multimedia platform connecting Black communities globally, is set to honor Black women from the African diaspora through her Heirs of Afrika Awards.
The 2024 Heirs of Afrika Awards will take place on Sunday, November 24 at the Sheraton Grand Los Angeles Hotel.
“I decided to make this my assignment – to bring our people together,” Mills said.
“I felt in my spirit that God had assigned me to this ministry.” She shared that her Ghanaian American background shaped her commitment to honoring Black women’s voices.
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Created as part of Heirs of Afrika, Mills’ International Women of Power event highlights Black women who drive change and foster community, serving as a platform for global connection and empowerment.
“The beauty about International Women of Power is the manifestation of the physical form of the conversation,” said Mills. “We are owners of our own destiny, and we are together. That’s the power of International Women of Power.”
“People leave the room transformed, they leave the room high, and they send me messages saying, ‘Queen, I felt like royalty,’” Mills continued. “Once you step into the space, you’re elevated into your greatest self.”
Mills said that growing up with a strong sense of heritage inspired her vision for Heirs of Afrika. The awards were created to elevate and showcase Black women’s global contributions.
“That’s why we chose the name ‘Heirs of Afrika,’ because everyone outside of the continent is just as invested and an inherent heir as those from the Motherland,” said Mills.
Actress Wendy Raquel Robinson returns as this year’s host. Mills notes Robinson will bring energy to the event, adding depth to the evening.
“She [Robinson] hosted in 2019, and when I made the call, she said, ‘Koshi, that room is such a special room. I’d be honored to come back,’” Mills said. “Last time she hosted; she was so phenomenal – so impactful. Everyone was riveted by her.”
The Heirs of Afrika Awards aims to create a dignified and affirming space. Mills described the event as elegant and inviting, reflecting the strength of Black women’s contributions. Each detail is crafted to provide an empowering experience for attendees.
“Someone described the event as a ‘big giant hug,’” said Mills. “You walk in, you see your sister from Africa, your sister from Haiti, Jamaica, Grenada, America, and you’re like, ‘wow.’”
Mills shared that this year’s honorees include actress Meagan Good, recognized for her impact in entertainment, along with 9-1-1 actress Sierra McClain and Caroline Wanga, CEO of Essence, celebrating a diverse group of trailblazing Black women.
“It’s going to be phenomenal! Amazing,” Mills said.
Grammy-winning artist Estelle will provide entertainment, adding a musical highlight to the celebration.
Looking ahead, Mills plans an event to recognize Black men, inspired by the men in her life. She sees this upcoming gathering as a way to highlight Black men’s achievements.
“International Men of Power will be coming in 2025,” Mills said. “I have four men in my house – my husband and my three sons… I’ve been wanting to do International Men of Power, but it hadn’t been the right time. Now, it’s the right time.”
Through Heirs of Afrika and The Diaspora Dialogues, Mills creates platforms for Black voices worldwide. This year’s awards will celebrate Black women’s impact, fostering pride and unity across the global Black community.
For more information and ticket details for the Heirs of Afrika Awards, visit heirsofafrika.com.
