Amidst today's daunting challenges, RiseAbove shines as a beacon of hope for Native American youth. At a recent event in Olympia's Nisqually Youth Center, former NBA player Chris Herren shared his journey of overcoming addiction to inspire a different path. Joined by notable figures like Governor Jay Inslee and Sonics legends Lenny Wilkens and George Karl, RiseAbove founder Jaci McCormick showcased the organization's mission: to provide youths with tools for personal development through sports and mentorship. With over 1,300 youths served nationwide in January alone, RiseAbove's commitment to reshaping the narrative for Native youth is undeniable.

The Feels Foundation held its annual art showcase, Still In Our Feels, at AXIS Pioneer Square to celebrate culturally diverse emerging artists from the Greater Seattle Area and beyond. In its 8th year, the showcase left our very own Besa Gordon, host of Back2Besa, in awe of the talent displayed all over the space.

In a world where hate seems to be on the rise, it becomes increasingly vital to address and combat it head-on. Recently, the Black Heritage Society of Washington State, the Wing Luke Museum, and the Washington State Jewish Historical Society joined forces for an event at the Museum of History & Industry (MOHAI) called "Confronting Hate Together."

For a decade now, the Northwest has been graced by the dazzling spectacle of the Reign of Style Hair Show and competition. This annual extravaganza, now in its 10th year, was born from the visionary mind of Aisha Ellis-Asim. Recognizing a void in the region's hair show scene, Aisha set out to fill it, thus giving birth to Reign Competitions NW. The mission was clear: provide a platform for hairstylists, beauticians, makeup artists, cosmetology students, and fashion designers from Seattle, Tacoma, and surrounding areas to showcase their talents, creativity, and passion for hair, beauty, and fashion.

Join Besa Gordon as she engages in a candid discussion with renowned love and relationships coach, and author of The Love Lies, Debrena Jackson-Gandy, delving into the intricate dynamics of modern-day relationships in "The State Of The Union." In this enlightening interview, Debrena unravels the complexities behind the breakdown of marriages and relationships, dissecting the impact of dating apps on communication and connection in budding romances. Explore strategies to reignite passion and foster open communication within relationships, alongside insights on what truly defines a "good date" and much more. Tune in for an insightful exploration into the ever-evolving landscape of love and intimacy.

Written by - Besa Gordon: If there's one thing you know about me, it's that I'm always on the lookout for exciting events with a vibe that everyone can enjoy. So, when I received an invitation to Vibe Bingo in Federal Way, I couldn't resist checking it out. Now, I know what you might be thinking - Bingo? That's something my Gran Gran does! But wait, let me tell you - this isn't your ordinary bingo night. This is VIBE. Bingo.

On a buzzing Friday night, Portland's Roseland Theater was the epicenter of an electrifying atmosphere, hosting a sold-out concert featuring the legendary Too Short and Portland's very own Cool Nutz. The lineup was stellar, with Mikey Vegas, Juma Blaq, DJ Fatboy, and Bad Habit setting the stage on fire, creating an unforgettable night for the city's live music aficionados.

Last Saturday, Vibe Bingo took over Auburn for their RnB + HipHop edition as a line wrapped around the block with guests excited to play the classic game while catching up with friends and listening to their favorite R&B and Hip-Hop music. The event is taking back the stigma of Bingo not being “cool” while creating a fun and electric environment for locals to come out and have a good time.

Last month, Dignity for Divas celebrated a ribbon cutting in partnership with Champions of Change and One Love that launched a fridge and pantry program at the Diva Dream Academy in South Lake Union. — One Love utilized Champions of Change funding to purchase the necessary equipment to install the fridge and pantry needed for Dignity for Divas to nourish the families they serve, which will be stocked by Feeding Feasible Feast. PHOTOS: Adrian Sims - Create and Blend

Seattle artists are making impacts around the world. Recently, a group travelled to Mexico City for Mexico Art Week, a yearly event which brings together artists from all over the world to showcase their work. Led by Seattle artist Soulma Ayers, the group installed their work at Progreso #69.

With it being International Womens Month, and the sun coming out more, there are a lot of fun events popping up across Seattle and we want to make sure you’re not missing them. Below are 6 events happening around Seattle this week you should know about.

This Black History Month, let's take a moment to celebrate the diverse experiences that make Black history so rich. Back2Besa is reliving some of our favorite moments on the show, from golf lessons with former Seahawks legend Jermaine Kearse to taking Seattle Kraken's official DJ, DJ Trunks, to the zoo. We've also covered events like the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences Northwest Chapter's Storytelling Conference, the Terrain Art Festival Pop Up in Spokane, and The Next 50 of Hip Hop celebration at KEXP. Join us in honoring Black history and promoting diversity and inclusion.

Tonight at 7pm PST on FOX 13 Seattle and FOX 13 +, Back2Besa host Besa Gordon presents a new film telling the story of one of Seattle’s most precious Black cultural spaces. Sankofa Theater: Inscape Finale which goes inside the journey of the Sankofa Theater, from its mission to the fight to keep the Black-owned space alive. The film features founder Teme Wokoma alongside many of those who worked hard to create a safe and open space for Black artists in the city. In case you’re not able to watch FOX 13 Seattle on your TV, below are a few ways to watch the film live:

Converge Media’s latest film - Sankofa Theater: Inscape Finale - is set to air commercial free in primetime this Tuesday, February 27th at 7 pm on FOX 13 Seattle and nationwide on the FOX Local app. Produced by Back2Besa host Besa Gordon, the film takes a look at the impact of Seattle’s Sankofa Theater and the fight to save what has become an important space for Seattle’s Black artists.

FOX 13 Seattle Evening Anchor Sabirah Rayford is set to host a primetime special centered around the premiere of Converge Media’s latest film - Sankofa Theater: Inscape Finale.

Seattle’s Black Arts and Culture scene took a hit with the closing of the Sankofa Theater, a space created for Black artists and storytellers to share their talents with the world in Seattle’s Central District. The Theater, which was located at the Inscape Arts Building, was forced to close in September due to a lack of funding and a push from other tenants. While owner Teme Wokoma looks for a new space, Back2Besa host Besa Gordon took a deep dive into the remarkable story behind the theater and those who served as it’s driving forces.

As we continue our Black History Month uplift, on episode 33 of Back2Besa, we highlight some of our favorite people we've met this season on the show, like Seattle's Tiffany Willison, who is playing Madam Z in Teatro Zinzanni, the Rose City Father, and Son DJ duo, DJ OG ONE, and DJ OG TOO.

Black History Month is an opportunity to celebrate and share the stories of talented individuals. This week on #Back2Besa, we're highlighting some of our favorite people we've met this season. Stay tuned for this week's spotlight and catch up on past episodes at whereweconverge.com/back2besa or on the FOX Local App.

Back2Besa airs Saturdays at 10:30 pm on FOX 13 Seattle and replays Sundays at 10 am on FOX 13 +

The Harlem Globetrotters are more than just basketball players. They’re global icons of family entertainment. With over 90 years of breaking down barriers and acts of goodwill, the Globetrotters have entertained over 148 million fans in 123 countries. Last week, I had the pleasure of watching them take on The Washington Generals at Climate Pledge Arena, and as usual, they didn’t disappoint. From the slam dunk to the fast break, the Globetrotters have left their mark on the sport. And those who watch this play.

Excited to announce that youth-led radio station, Ground Zero Radio, will be joining us once a month right here on Back2Besa! Their goal is to connect local communities, amplify youth voices, and inspire new leaders. This week, Lucia Flores-Wiseman brings us a story about Totem Star, a new studio near the King Street Station that's FREE and open for youth ages 14-25. It's amazing to see a space where money isn't a barrier for young musicians to make their music.