SEA Cares, Inc. a 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Organization

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Southern Entertainment Awards Ignites New Era-Officially Launches as a Non-Profit to Amplify Industry Impact

Nashville, TN – January 19th, 2026 — The Southern Entertainment Awards (SEA), a long-standing and celebrated platform that honors the achievements and contributions entertainment industry professionals across the southern region and beyond, proudly announces its nonprofit entity SEA Cares, Inc.
 

This milestone marks a new era in the organization's 20+ year legacy of elevating the voices and visibility of emerging talent. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, SEA Cares will expand its mission-driven work by providing year-round programming focused on artist development, music education, mentorship, and community enrichment.

“The evolution into a nonprofit organization allows us to deepen our impact and create more sustainable opportunities for independent creatives,” said SEA Cares, Inc. founding board members Jesse Johnson Jr., Dwight Pope & Janiro Hawkins II. “This is more than an awards show—it's a movement built on advocacy, access, and empowerment.”

By operating as a nonprofit, SEA Cares, Inc. will now be positioned to form strategic partnerships, apply for grants, and accept tax-deductible donations that directly support its initiatives. Upcoming efforts include educational workshops, performance showcases, and outreach programs that invest in underserved communities with a focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion in entertainment.

The SEA’s annual awards ceremony, which has grown into a premier cultural event attracting a diverse range of attendees each year, will continue to serve as the organization's flagship celebration. However, the new nonprofit structure ensures that SEA’s influence extends beyond a single weekend, creating lasting change throughout the creative landscape.