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The 15th Annual New York Game Awards is fast approaching, and with it comes a new surprise we’ve been waiting to unveil. Yes, it’s already been announced that Reggie Fils-Aimé and Harold Goldberg would be returning as hosts. But there’s one more important person yet to be announced in terms of the show.
It’s Makeda Byfield! This talented young woman who co-hosted our 12th Awards (video above) lived a portion of her life within New York City’s shelter system. While it may be a place filled with trials and tribulations for most, Makeda made the most of the opportunities given to her and found her way into the Critics Circle’s Playing with Purpose courses held at the Bronxworks shelter.
As an extraordinary writer, Makeda excelled in review writing and secured herself an internship with the Circle. But her potential didn’t just stop there. Her next biggest achievement was an interview with Reggie Fils-Aimé, pouring over his new book “Disrupting The Game” and the various life experiences he witnessed on the road to legend status. The two spoke as equals as Makeda relayed her questions with such tact and precision that even Reggie was stunned at her brilliance afterwards.
Yet she still was not finished, as Makeda would go on to join Reggie and Harold on stage at the 12th Annual NY Game Awards as the first Circle Intern to co-host the show. As the first in-person Awards show right after the pandemic, we knew that the 12th had to be something special, and Makeda helped bring life back into the previously virtual crowd. On stage, Makeda brought enough energy to match the industry powerhouses she was placed in between, simply ecstatic to be on stage in front of the crowd present for our 12th.
Makeda continues to do fantastic work in her college career, pursuing a career in Social Work & Public Affairs for underserved youths, while keeping the Circle close to her heart. We’re more than happy to welcome Makeda Byfield back to the stage as co-host for the 15th Awards and hope all who are coming to the show are equally thrilled for her return!
