With that in mind, the Tampa Bay Association of Black Journalists hosts an annual banquet called the Griot Drum Awards that includes a guest speaker, a local media  awards competition and the awarding of scholarships to high school students pursuing journalism.

The banquet is held in mid-November and has included renowned speakers, such as Jemele Hill, sports journalist, Eric Deggans, former TBABJ president and NPR TV critic, Leonard Pitts, columnist, Jarrett Hill, professor and journalist, Tiffany Greene, ESPN commentator, Kimberly Godwin, former ABC News president and Don Lemon, former CNN News anchor.

For sponsorship information, volunteering opportunities, or ticket information, email [email protected] or message the TBABJ Facebook page.

Stay tuned for details on our next Griot Drum Awards.