The Event Hosts
Amma Whatt
Vocalist | Performer | Vice President, Egbe Iwa Board
Amma Whatt is a dynamic vocalist and performer known for her genre-blending sound that fuses Soul, Afro-Caribbean rhythms, House, and Jazz. A proud graduate of Egbe Iwa and current Vice President of its Board, she continues to inspire through both music and mentorship.
Described by PopMatters as “a distinctive soul singer who absolutely seduces your ear,” and praised by The New York Times for her “silk-infused vocals,” Amma’s artistry is both powerful and deeply expressive.
She has performed internationally, collaborated with renowned artists, and created viral a cappella performances rooted in Afro-Cuban spiritual traditions. Beyond the stage, she is an educator and advocate, using her voice to promote social justice and empower communities through music.
Instagram @ammawhatt
Andres Chulisi Rodriguez
Actor | Poet | Author | Producer
Andres Chulisi Rodriguez is a HOLA Award-winning and AUDELCO-nominated actor, author, and performance artist. His work spans theater, poetry, and live performance, with a strong focus on storytelling that reflects lived experience.
He is the self-published author of Slips, Trips and Falls, a collection of personal essays and poetry. As a member of the spiritual institution FUENTE, he is also engaged in teaching inclusive spiritual practices.
Andres is a passionate advocate for the POC and LGBTQ+ communities, producing work that centers their voices and experiences. He facilitates acting and writing workshops across New York City and continues to develop new projects, including his variety show ChuliVision, his one-man show MARICON, and his upcoming book UNMOTHERED.
Facebook- Andres Chulisi Rodriguez
Instagram- chuliboo
TikTok- Andres Chulisi Rodriguez
Red Carpet Host
Robert G. Siverls
Actor | Mentor | Egbe Iwa Oluko
Robert G. Siverls is a dedicated actor whose return to the stage after a 17-year hiatus reflects both faith and purpose. He trained at The Acting Studio under James Price and John Grabowski of the Chelsea Repertory Company, where he refined his craft and renewed his commitment to performance.
In 2014, he was recognized as the Acting Studio Story Book Contest Winner. His work spans a variety of independent film and television projects, showcasing his versatility as a performer.
Within Egbe Iwa, Robert is known as “Baba Robert,” serving as a mentor (Oluko), workshop leader, and committed supporter of the organization’s mission to uplift youth through culture and education.
robertsiverls926@gmail.com RobertSiverls.com
The Honoree
José Antonio Rivera
Civil Rights Attorney | Community Advocate (Posthumous Honor)
José Antonio Rivera (June 18, 1947 – April 10, 2025) was a civil rights attorney, U.S. Air Force veteran, and graduate of NYU School of Law. Over the course of his career, he built a respected law firm and later a consulting practice focused on community organizing and advocacy.
José was deeply committed to advancing civil rights and empowering underserved communities. Among his many accomplishments, he was appointed by President Jimmy Carter to serve on the Board of the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.
Through an introduction by Melody Capote, José began working with Egbe Iwa and quickly became a trusted advisor and advocate. He generously gave his time and expertise, helping to establish the organization’s legal and fiscal foundation, work he continued until his passing.
Egbe Iwa honors him with the Ogun Seriki Citizenship Award in recognition of his service, legacy, and enduring impact. His contributions will continue to guide the organization for years to come.
Melody Capote
Accepting Award on Behalf of
Baba Jose Antonio Rivera
Executive Director, Caribbean Cultural Center African Diaspora Institute (CCCADI)
Melody Capote has served as Executive Director of the Caribbean Cultural Center African Diaspora Institute (CCCADI) since 2018, continuing a remarkable journey with the organization that began in 1984. Over the years, she has established herself as a leading voice in arts administration and cultural activism, championing cultural equity and social justice for African descendant communities.
Melody is known for building meaningful partnerships that strengthen and uplift marginalized communities. Through her vision and generosity, she connected Egbe Iwa’s Founder, Amma Oloriwaa!, with nonprofit advocate and legal consultant José Rivera. That introduction grew into a lasting relationship that helped shape and strengthen Egbe Iwa’s foundation.
She accepts this honor in recognition of that legacy and on behalf of her dear friend and colleague, Baba José.
The Master of Entertainment
DJ Paul Howard
DJ | Radio Personality | House Music Curator
DJ Paul Howard is a seasoned DJ whose career spans more than three decades. Born in Queens and raised in New Rochelle, he came up alongside the evolution of Hip Hop and House music, developing a deep connection to both genres.
A graduate of Howard University, Paul refined his craft in Washington, DC, where he performed in numerous clubs and on radio stations. He was one of the original Mixshow DJs on WKYS 93.9 FM in the early 1990s.
Today, he continues to share his passion for music as the host of House After Dark on WPFW 89.3 FM, airing Mondays from midnight to 2 AM. His mixes and live sets continue to energize audiences both online and on the dance floor.
Follow him on all social media platforms @DjPaulHoward and on Twitch @DjPaulHoward914. Look for his mixes on Mixcloud @DjPaulHoward.