2025 HONOREES
Game Changer of the Year Award
To honor an individual who has demonstrated exceptional leadership in using their platform—whether as an athlete, entertainer, or public figure—to create long-lasting change, particularly in raising awareness for social causes and uplifting underserved communities.
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Strategist, CEO & Board Member | Speaker & Thought Leader | Founder N-Ovate Solutions | Former CIO/CTO City of Atlanta
Tye Hayes, the visionary Founder and CEO of N-Ovate Solutions, is a trailblazer in digital transformation across sports, technology, government, and education. With a distinguished career that began in the United States Navy, Tye developed a unique combination of discipline, leadership, and forward-thinking that continues to fuel her success. Her expertise has been instrumental in driving innovation within the NFL, where she has collaborated on transformative technology initiatives to enhance operations, fan engagement, and infrastructure. Under her leadership, N-Ovate Solutions has become synonymous with delivering cutting-edge solutions that reimagine possibilities in the sports industry and beyond. Tye's dynamic approach and unwavering commitment to progress position her as a leading force shaping the future of digital revolution.
The Legacy Leader Award
To recognize an individual whose longstanding commitment to community service and philanthropy has paved the way for others to follow, leaving a lasting legacy of social impact and empowerment.
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CEO of Covenant House New Orleans
Rheneisha is a passionate public health professional with over 20 years of experience in nonprofit leadership and community public health. She has been instrumental in improving health outcomes and quality of life for marginalized communities, particularly women, youth, and communities of color. Rheneisha spent 15 years with the Institute of Women and Ethnic Studies (IWES), a national nonprofit health organization, where she held significant leadership roles, including Chief Program Officer and Chief Operating Officer.
Her current and past board service includes Girls on the Run NOLA, the Greater New Orleans Breastfeeding Advocacy Coalition, Emerge LA, Iggie’s House (a Nia Robertson Foundation), and New Orleans Metro Stars. She was also a member of the Off the Field Players’ Wives Association, a national group of active and retired professional football players' wives.
Rheneisha holds a Master’s in Public Health from Tulane University and a bachelor's from Xavier University. She is a graduate of the Brian Bell Metropolitan Leadership Forum and the Rockwood Leadership Institute’s Art of Leadership program. A proud native of New Orleans, Rheneisha is also a wife and mother of two.
The Community Advocate Award
To celebrate an individual or organization whose work directly impacts their local community, focusing on initiatives that foster empowerment, resilience, and sustainable solutions for positive change.
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President of Heroes of New Orleans
Dedicated to improving the health, educational attainment, human welfare, and opportunities for youth, adults and families in New Orleans. Heroes Of New Orleans is a nonprofit that implements a combination of workforce development, education, training, case management, mentorship, restorative justice and community-wide violence reduction components. Heroes focuses on helping youth succeed in high schools, colleges, vocational training, apprenticeships, GED programs, and internships which lead to a credential-demanded job in an industry that stimulates the economy.
The Rising Star Award
To acknowledge the achievements of a young or emerging leader who is making a significant impact in their community, demonstrating innovative approaches to addressing social issues and inspiring others to take action.
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HBCU Correspondent, HBCU Pulse
Destinee Kerr is a passionate advocate for education and personal development, with a deep commitment to the HBCU community. A proud graduate of Xavier University of Louisiana, she has leveraged her unique experiences to build a successful career in Marketing and Communications. With over five years of expertise, Destinee specializes in collegiate branding and marketing, particularly within the HBCU space.
In addition to her professional accomplishments, she leads impactful community initiatives and takes pride in championing the legacy and influence of HBCUs. Destinee's unwavering dedication to these causes makes her a deserving honoree of this award.
Allyship Award
To recognize an individual or group who has shown unwavering support for community-driven causes, even if it is outside their professional scope or industry. This award honors those who leverage their platforms to amplify the voices and efforts of grassroots initiatives and changemakers.
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NFL Safety for the New Orleans Saints & President and Founder of The Tyrann Mathieu Foundation
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NFL All Pro & Super Bowl Champ and Philanthropist
Bryant McKinnie, a 2012 Super Bowl Champion, is celebrated for his achievements in football and philanthropy. A standout offensive lineman at the University of Miami, McKinnie earned First Team All-American honors, the Outland Trophy, and played a key role in the Hurricanes’ 2001 National Championship. Drafted seventh overall by the Minnesota Vikings in 2002, he enjoyed a successful NFL career, highlighted by a Super Bowl XLVII victory with the Baltimore Ravens.
Off the field, McKinnie is dedicated to giving back through initiatives like "Operation Turkey," building schools in Uganda, and supporting global causes. He leads BMajor Music Group and the BMajor Foundation, focused on empowering single-parent households and promoting mental health awareness.
McKinnie also co-hosts the podcasts Bleav in Vikings and Mac and Meeka Live and serves as COO of Letz Chat, a language translation company collaborating with Comcast. With a vast network spanning sports, entertainment, and business, McKinnie continues to inspire through his work on and off the field.
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2025 Cause Connections
S.M.O.O.O.T.H. - Website, Instagram, Facebook, X (Twitter)
A New Cause
Every Year
Every year during Super Bowl week, The Real Game Changers event highlights a specific cause to make a real difference where it matters most. By focusing on a new issue annually, we aim to bring attention, rally support, and create lasting change in our communities.
Domestic Violence Awareness
Shining a Light on Change
For 2025, we’re turning the spotlight on Domestic Violence Awareness, a cause close to our hearts. Part of the event proceeds will go toward helping local survivors, funding prevention efforts, and supporting advocacy programs. Together, we’re working to create safer communities and brighter futures.
2025 CHAIRPERSON
As the founder of S.M.O.O.O.T.H. (Speaking Mentally, Outwardly Opening Opportunities Toward Healing) and a dedicated advocate for domestic violence awareness, Sabrina Greenlee leads the 2025 Real Game Changers Mixer with passion and purpose.
Her personal journey as a survivor inspired her to create S.M.O.O.O.T.H., a nonprofit that provides critical support, resources, and education for domestic violence survivors. Through her work, Sabrina has empowered countless individuals and driven meaningful change in communities nationwide.
As Chairperson, Sabrina brings her expertise and unwavering commitment to raising awareness and funds for domestic violence prevention and survivor support, ensuring this year’s event makes a lasting impact.
2025 SPONSORS
