WIBA Awards: A Disrespectful Treatment Exposed
By Maureen Martin | September 4, 2025 | Beauty, Celebrity & Culture
We are deeply appalled by the ignorant and biased treatment that artists endured at the WIBA Awards in Paris, France (@wibaawards).
Bilonda was presented with an award, yet denied the dignity and recognition that every honoree deserves. She was excluded from the official ceremony and photographs, only to have the event manager, Mariia (@mgchaplin), dismissively claim that her award was “fake.”
This is more than a simple oversight—it is a blatant act of disrespect and discrimination. To celebrate someone with one hand while erasing them with the other is unacceptable. Bilonda is a powerhouse of talent and impact, and she should have been honored, not humiliated, on such a global stage.
The WIBA Awards (@wibaawards) must do better. We call on the organizers to issue a public apology to Bilonda Alice Mukendi and to ensure that no artist, creator, or visionary is ever subjected to such treatment again.
Here is the account in Alice’s own words.
Respect is not optional. Recognition must be real.
Regardless of how this event went down, we encourage content creators to research all opportunities that are presented to them. If you are not familiar with the company or organization, please have an appearance contract that outlines the expectations and the manner of execution of all functions. If they are not willing to ensure your safety and how you will be presented in writing, walk away. Your peace is not worth it.
