At the Black Music Action Coalition’s (BMAC) sixth annual gala in Beverly Hills on September 24, 2026, Nicole Wyskoarko was honored with the inaugural Sylvia Rhone Visionary Award. This new accolade, named after the legendary music executive Sylvia Rhone, recognizes leaders who demonstrate innovation, mentorship, influence, and a commitment to creating opportunities for artists within the music industry. Wyskoarko, a veteran music executive and attorney with over two decades of experience in business affairs and executive leadership, described the award as deeply personal given Rhone’s role as a mentor and trailblazer whom she admired early in her career.

Sylvia Rhone, who presented the award, highlighted Wyskoarko’s unique blend of legal acumen, creativity, and compassion, praising her commitment to championing artists and elevating underrepresented voices in the industry. Rhone emphasized the current challenges in music, including the impact of artificial intelligence and the diminishing presence of Black executives, and celebrated Wyskoarko’s leadership in these critical areas. For both women, the award symbolizes not only individual achievement but also broader efforts to advance diversity and inclusion in executive roles throughout music.

Wyskoarko used her acceptance speech to underscore the ongoing responsibility that comes with such recognition. She announced a partnership between Interscope and BMAC to sponsor two interns for the 2027 HBCU internship program, along with a personal $20,000 contribution to support summer housing for HBCU students—addressing key barriers to access for emerging talent. She framed her vision around truly empowering people with real decision-making authority, challenging the industry to actively nurture potential and increase representation among Black and female executives in leadership positions.

The gala also celebrated other influential figures in music and culture, including Common, Patti LaBelle, and Public Enemy, reflecting a wide-ranging commitment to artistry, advocacy, and industry infrastructure. Beyond the awards, BMAC continues to focus on systemic change through grants, mentorship programs, and advocacy for equitable treatment in the evolving music business landscape. Wyskoarko’s journey and the introduction of the Sylvia Rhone Visionary Award spotlight the transformative power of mentorship, leadership, and a purposeful vision for an inclusive future in Black music.