The CCAs celebrate and honor the world’s most inspiring and impactful creators — fierce trailblazers as we like to call them. The honorees are unique in transcending fields and industries — spanning the arts, sciences, technology, and education. The awards show inspires and entertains, while promoting creativity’s critical role throughout our communities, economy, and society.

All proceeds from the CCAs, our main fundraiser, fund the delivery of our flagship Learn with Creative Confidence curriculum to schools and after-school programs across the country.

VIDEO PORTRAITS OF PAST HONOREES

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Carla Zakhem-Hassan

Authentic Leadership

For consistently bringing her whole self and style to her professional and personal lives, and sticking to what’s authentic even in the face of pressures to stray from that core. View Carla’s acceptance speech, presented by Gary Vaynerchuk, here.
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Johnny Weir

Intuitive Icon

For fearlessly embracing his identity, breaking down barriers and challenging stereotypes in the sports world. View Johnny’s acceptance speech, presented by Britt Stewart, here.

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Martin Schoeller

Curious Photography

For his curiosity to understand the stories behind the eyes and expressions of his portrait subjects. View Martin’s acceptance speech, presented by Jeff Koons, here.

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KARA SWISHER

AUTHENTIC JOURNALISM

For her sharp wit and no-nonsense approach to journalism. View Kara’s acceptance speech here.

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ANGELA ZEPEDA

INTUITIVE LEADERSHIP

For an impressive marketing career built on consumer-centric campaigns.

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GRIMANESA AMORÓS

INSPIRED ILLUMINATION

For her inspired use of light to create immersive monumental sculptures.

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Kristin Lemkau

AUTHENTIC LEADERSHIP

For creative and authentic leadership throughout her career.
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John Zorn

INVENTIVE MUSIC

For giving other musicians a venue to authentically experiment and express themselves.
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Hope Jahren

INSPIRED SCIENCE

For inspiring a renewed interest and passion in the natural world.
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AIMEE EUBANKS DAVIS

INTUITIVE EDUCATION

For the intuitive risk she took to build a thriving and impactful organization.
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SUTAN AMRULL

EXPRESSIVE ARTISTRY

For transforming himself and others through costume, make-up, and performance.