34rd annual Juneteenth MKE Freedom Ball celebrates young black scholars

On Friday, June 13, 2025, Northcott Neighborhood House, Inc. (NNHI), hosted its “34rd Annual Milwaukee Juneteenth Freedom Ball” at Harley Davidson Museum’s The Garage, 500 W. Canal St. The Freedom Ball empowers the next generation by providing equitable access to higher education. Through community-driven financial support, NNHI awards scholarships that foster academic excellence and develop leaders committed to making a lasting impact in their communities. The Freedom Ball also honors outstanding community leaders. Marcus Carnell Hogans was recognized as Father of the Year; Terri Alice Mim Volunteer of the Year, and Gale Burgess as non-African American ally, who has helped Northcott fulfill its mission of serving disadvantaged residents.

Each year, the Freedom Ball raises critical dollars for the Miss and Mr. Juneteenth Scholarship Program, directly supporting outstanding young black leaders in our community. This year’s court included Sydney Purifoy-Mahone, Miss Juneteenth 2025; Kamari Murray, Mister Juneteenth 2025; Lyric Kendrick, Little Miss Juneteenth; Matteo Cooks Little Mister, Juneteenth 2025; Gianna Cooks Miss Juneteenth 1st runner-up; Zora Penager-Dayidson, Miss Juneteenth 2nd runner-up; Karmyn Fields, Little Miss Juneteenth 1st runner-up, Brooklyn Lloyd, Little Miss Juneteenth 2nd runner-up; Kadence Jones, Little Miss Juneteenth 3rd runner-up; Ethan Hampton, Little Mr. Juneteenth 1st runner-up; and Clifton Frier Little, Mr. Juneteenth 2nd runner-up. The organizer for the Juneteenth pageant is Felicia Williams.