2026 Glyph Comics Awards Winners Announced, Celebrating Diverse Storytelling in the Comic Medium

The East Coast Black Age of Comics Convention (ECBACC) has unveiled the recipients of the 2026 Glyph Comics Awards, an annual celebration that shines a spotlight on exceptional achievements in comics created by, for, and about people of color. This year’s ceremony, presented by ECBACC, continues its tradition of recognizing the innovation, artistic merit, and compelling narratives that enrich the comic book landscape. The awards serve as a crucial platform for elevating diverse voices and acknowledging the significant contributions of creators who often operate outside the mainstream, fostering a more inclusive and representative industry.

A Legacy of Recognition and Empowerment

The Glyph Comics Awards, established to honor and promote creators of color in the comic book industry, have grown in stature since their inception. The East Coast Black Age of Comics Convention, the driving force behind the awards, has a long-standing commitment to showcasing and preserving Black comic book history and culture. By providing a dedicated space for these narratives, the Glyph Awards empower creators, inspire emerging talent, and offer readers a wider spectrum of stories that reflect a broader range of human experiences. The 2026 ceremony highlights a robust field of nominees, underscoring the continued vitality and creativity within this vital segment of the comic art world.

Story of the Year: A Celebration of Narrative Excellence

The coveted Story of the Year award recognizes the most compelling and impactful narrative. This year, the honor went to "OÃ: Holder of the Heads – The Yam and the White Cloth" by writer and artist Oludare Oredipe. This win signifies a profound appreciation for Oredipe’s unique storytelling prowess and their ability to craft a narrative that resonated deeply with the judging panel.

The nominees for Story of the Year presented a diverse array of genres and themes, demonstrating the breadth of talent within the community. These included:

• "Celestial Eyes Volume 2: The Second Cycle" by John Uche (writer) and Francis Goodluck (artist).
• "Code Vulcan: Chapter Zero" by Tyrel Jackson (writer) and Rafy Odita (artist).
• "Crash Cart" by Ebony Toussaint (writer) and Robert Aultman (artist).
• "The Diary of the Stray Dogs Volume 1" by Nigel Lynch (writer) and Juan Carlos Francisco (artist).
• "Disturbin’ the Peace" by Michael Sales (writer) and Randolph Williams, Kenjji Jumanne-Marshall, Vivian Williams, Daniel Strickland (artists).
• "Fumes #1" by M’Shai Dash and Greg Burnham (writers) and Tiah Ankum and Tahilla Ankum (artists).
• "Hammer: John Henry vs the Robot Apocalypse" by Greg Anderson Elysée (writer) and David Brame (artist).
• "Hounds and Jackals" by Owoade Ifeoluwa (writer and artist).
• "Mail Order Monster" by Orlando Harding, Greg Erb, and Jason Oremland (writers) and James “Doodle” Lyle (artist).
• "Ninja Empire Issue 1" by Bryan “Kaiser” Tillman (writer and artist).
• "NinjaNiko #1" by Nekoe Smith (writer) and Michael Magallanes (artist).
• "Orisha Vol. 1" by Huzayfa Umar (Zayf) (writer and artist).
• "Pawns hop" by LindoYes (writer) and Jaz Malone and Javon McKoy (artists).
• "Rise of the Mafu" by Gerald Vreden (writer) and Hakim Rafai (artist).
• "Spirit the Woman of Hope #2" by H.W. Peete (writer) and Dino Agor (artist).
• "Spoof Streetz (Big Ma and Wildin Out Zombies)" by Jeff Carroll (writer) and Jorge Luis Gabotto (artist).
• "Tezra #3: Toxic Part 2" by CJ McWillis (writer and artist).
• "Worlds: A One-Shot Anthology" by John Uche, Lord Blue, and Cuisel Peach (writers) and Stone Otor, Francis Goodluck, Lord Blue, Jeremiah Abah, and Gabriel Onche (artists).

The breadth of these nominations underscores the diverse storytelling approaches and artistic styles being celebrated, from epic adventures and character-driven dramas to genre-bending narratives.

Artistic Acclaim: Best Cover and Best Artist Awards

The visual impact of a comic book is often first conveyed through its cover art. The award for Best Cover recognized the striking visual appeal and thematic resonance of "Rise of the Mafu," with Gerald Vreden (writer) and Hakim Rafai (artist) taking home the prize. This award highlights the critical role of cover art in capturing reader attention and setting the tone for the story within.

The Best Artist award celebrated the individual who demonstrated exceptional skill, creativity, and storytelling through their illustrations. This year, Hakim Rafai was honored for his work on "Rise of the Mafu," marking a significant recognition of his artistic contributions to the comic medium.

Nominees for Best Cover included:

• "Code Vulcan: Chapter Zero" by Tyrel Jackson (writer) and Rafy Odita (artist).
• "The Diary of the Stray Dogs Volume 1" by Nigel Lynch (writer) and Matthew Clarke (artist).
• "Fumes #1" by M’Shai Dash and Greg Burnham (writers) and Tiah Ankum, Tahilla Ankum, Canaan White, and DeyVision (artists).
• "Hammer: John Henry vs the Robot Apocalypse" by Greg Anderson Elysée (writer) and David Brame (artist).
• "Hounds and Jackals" by Owoade Ifeoluwa (writer and artist).
• "Mail Order Monster" by Orlando Harding, Greg Erb, and Jason Oremland (writers) and Rafael Lanhellas (artist).
• "Ninja Empire Issue 1" by Bryan “Kaiser” Tillman (writer and artist).
• "NinjaNiko #1" by Nekoe Smith (writer) and Michael Magallanes (artist).
• "OÃ: Holder of the Heads – The Yam and the White Cloth" by Oludare Oredipe (writer and artist).
• "Orisha Vol. 1" by Huzayfa Umar (Zayf) (writer and artist).
• "Pawns hop" by LindoYes (writer) and James E Walker (artist).
• "Spoof Streetz" by Jeff Carroll (writer) and Jorge Luis Gabotto (artist).
• "Worlds: A One-Shot Anthology" by John Uche, Lord Blue, and Cuisel Peach (writers) and Erivic Adedayo (artist).

The nominees for Best Artist showcased a diverse range of styles and techniques, from dynamic action sequences to intricate character designs, all contributing to the immersive worlds within their respective comics.

Honoring the Architects of Story: Best Writer and Character Awards

The Best Writer award acknowledged the power of words and the craft of storytelling. Gerald Vreden was recognized for his exceptional work on "Rise of the Mafu," highlighting his ability to weave compelling narratives that captivate readers.

The awards also celebrated the memorable characters that drive these stories. Dwayne “Dady” Glover from "Beware of Toddler" by George Gant (writer and artist) was named Best Male Character. This award underscores the importance of creating relatable and engaging male protagonists.

In the Best Female Character category, Shani Belcourt from "The Diary of the Stray Dogs Volume 1" by Nigel Lynch (writer) and Juan Carlos Francisco (artist) emerged as the winner. This recognition emphasizes the growing presence and significance of well-developed female characters in comics.

The nominees for Best Writer represented a broad spectrum of literary talent, including:

• Jeff Carroll for "Spoof Streetz."
• M’Shai Dash and Greg Burnham for "Fumes #1."
• Greg Anderson Elysée for "Hammer: John Henry vs the Robot Apocalypse."
• George Gant for "Beware of Toddler."
• Orlando Harding, Greg Erb, and Jason Oremland for "Mail Order Monster."
• Owoade Ifeoluwa for "Hounds and Jackals."
• Tyrel Jackson for "Code Vulcan: Chapter Zero."
• LindoYes for "Pawns hop."
• Nigel Lynch for "The Diary of the Stray Dogs Volume 1."
• Oludare Oredipe for "OÃ: Holder of the Heads – The Yam and the White Cloth."
• H.W. Peete for "Spirit the Woman of Hope #2."
• Michael Sales for "Disturbin’ the Peace."
• Jared Sams for "Space Negro – The Last Negro: The Big Black Climax."
• Nekoe Smith for "NinjaNiko #1."
• Bryan “Kaiser” Tillman for "Ninja Empire Issue 1."
• Ebony Toussaint for "Crash Cart."
• John Uche, Lord Blue, and Cuisel Peach for "Worlds: A One-Shot Anthology."
• John Uche for "Celestial Eyes Volume 2: The Second Cycle."
• Huzayfa Umar (Zayf) for "Orisha Vol. 1."

The nominees for Best Male Character showcased a range of compelling male figures, including:

• Reuben Abiola (SP) in "Hounds and Jackals" by Owoade Ifeoluwa.
• Aboki in "Orisha Vol. 1" by Huzayfa Umar (Zayf).
• Mupha Bawen in "Worlds: A One-Shot Anthology" by John Uche, Lord Blue, and Cuisel Peach.
• Jake/Captain Cold in "The Amazing Adventures of Captain Cold" by Leo J. Neal (son) and Chris Neal (dad) (writers) and Leo J. Neal (artist).
• Kyrie Jackson (Black Recluse) in "Kyle Flex Mythical Venom" by KJ FROM CALI (writer) and Ricardo Oliver (artist).
• John Henry of Root in "Hammer: John Henry vs the Robot Apocalypse" by Greg Anderson Elysée (writer) and David Brame (artist).
• Xander Schwarz aka the Black Dragon in "Ninja Empire Issue 1" by Bryan “Kaiser” Tillman (writer and artist).
• Niko Smith aka NinjaNiko in "NinjaNiko #1" by Nekoe Smith (writer) and Michael Magallanes (artist).
• Sotunde: The Wanderer of the White Cloth in "OÃ: Holder of the Heads – The Yam and the White Cloth" by Oludare Oredipe (writer and artist).
• Gerald Vreden in "Rise of the Mafu" by Gerald Vreden (writer) and Hakim Rafai (artist).

The nominees for Best Female Character demonstrated the depth and complexity of female representation in comics, including:

• Big Sis in "OÃ: Holder of the Heads – The Yam and the White Cloth" by Oludare Oredipe (writer and artist).
• Ava “The Toddler” Glover in "Beware of Toddler" by George Gant (writer and artist).
• Onnwanuju in "Celestial Eyes Volume 2: The Second Cycle" by John Uche (writer) and Francis Goodluck (artist).
• Nefertiti Raynes in "Disturbin’ the Peace" by Michael Sales (writer) and Randolph Williams, Kenjji Jumanne-Marshall, Vivian Williams, Daniel Strickland (artists).
• Spirit in "Spirit the Woman of Hope #2" by H.W. Peete (writer) and Dino Agor (artist).
• Yeulah Sumpter in "Fumes #1" by M’Shai Dash and Greg Burnham (writers) and Tiah Ankum and Tahilla Ankum (artists).
• Sydney in "Mail Order Monster" by Orlando Harding, Greg Erb, and Jason Oremland (writers) and James “Doodle” Lyle (artist).
• Wanda Vreden in "Rise of the Mafu" by Gerald Vreden (writer) and Hakim Rafai (artist).

Emerging Talent and Fan Favorites

The Rising Star Award is a testament to the future of comics, recognizing creators who have shown immense promise and potential. This year, the award was presented to Oludare Oredipe for their work on "OÃ: Holder of the Heads – The Yam and the White Cloth." This award highlights Oredipe’s innovative approach and their significant impact on the current comic scene.

The Best Comic Strip or Webcomic category celebrated the accessibility and engaging nature of serialized online and print comics. "Rise of the Mafu" by Gerald Vreden (writer) and Hakim Rafai (artist) was a standout winner in this category, demonstrating the power of this format to reach wide audiences.

The Fan Award for Best Work, voted on by the public, is a crucial indicator of popular appeal and reader engagement. The enthusiastic support of the fanbase led to "The Amazing Adventures of Captain Cold" by Leo J. Neal (son) and Chris Neal (dad) (writers) and Leo J. Neal (artist) clinching this prestigious award. This win reflects the direct connection these creators have forged with their audience.

Nominees for Rising Star Award included:

• M’Shai Dash, Greg Burnham (writers) and Tiah Ankum, Tahilla Ankum (artists) for "Fumes #1."
• Owoade Ifeoluwa (writer and artist) for "Hounds and Jackals."
• Tyrel Jackson (writer) and Rafy Odita (artist) for "Code Vulcan: Chapter Zero."
• LindoYes (writer) and Jaz Malone, Javon McKoy (artists) for "Pawns hop."
• Nigel Lynch (writer) and Juan Carlos Francisco (artist) for "The Diary of the Stray Dogs Volume 1."
• CJ McWillis (writer and artist) for "Tezra #3: Toxic Part 2."
• Leo J. Neal (son) and Chris Neal (dad) (writers) and Leo J. Neal (artist) for "The Amazing Adventures of Captain Cold."
• H.W. Peete (writer) and Dino Agor (artist) for "Spirit the Woman of Hope #2."
• Michael Sales (writer) and Randolph Williams, Kenjji Jumanne-Marshall, Vivian Williams, Daniel Strickland (artists) for "Disturbin’ the Peace."
• Jared Sams (writer and artist) for "Space Negro – The Last Negro: The Big Black Climax."
• Nekoe Smith (writer) and Michael Magallanes (artist) for "NinjaNiko #1."
• Ebony Toussaint (writer) and Robert Aultman (artist) for "Crash Cart."
• John Uche, Lord Blue, and Cuisel Peach (writers) and Stone Otor, Francis Goodluck, Lord Blue, Jeremiah Abah, and Gabriel Onche (artists) for "Worlds: A One-Shot Anthology."
• Huzayfa Umar (Zayf) (writer and artist) for "Orisha Vol. 1."
• Gerald Vreden (writer) and Hakim Rafai (artist) for "Rise of the Mafu."

Nominees for Best Comic Strip or Webcomic included:

• "The Amazing Adventures of Captain Cold" by Leo J. Neal (son), Chris Neal (dad) (writers), and Leo J. Neal (artist).
• "Crash Cart" by Ebony Toussaint (writer) and Robert Aultman (artist).
• "Hammer: John Henry vs the Robot Apocalypse" by Greg Anderson Elysée (writer) and David Brame (artist).
• "Kyle Flex Mythical Venom" by KJ FROM CALI (writer) and Ricardo Oliver (artist).

Nominees for Fan Award for Best Work included:

• "Beware of Toddler" by George Gant (writer and artist).
• "Celestial Eyes Volume 2: The Second Cycle" by John Uche (writer) and Cuisel Peach, Emmanuel Udofia, Francis Goodluck (artists).
• "Code Vulcan: Chapter Zero" by Tyrel Jackson (writer) and Rafy Odita (artist).
• "Crash Cart" by Ebony Toussaint (writer) and Josh Jones, Robert Aultman (artists).
• "Hammer: John Henry vs the Robot Apocalypse" by Greg Anderson Elysée (writer) and David Brame (artist).
• "Hounds and Jackals" by Owoade Ifeoluwa (writer and artist).
• "Mail Order Monster" by Orlando Harding, Greg Erb, and Jason Oremland (writers) and Rafael Lanhellas, James “Doodle” Lyle (artists).
• "Ninja Empire Issue 1" by Bryan “Kaiser” Tillman (writer and artist).
• "NinjaNiko #1" by Nekoe Smith (writer) and Michael Magallanes (artist).
• "OÃ: Holder of the Heads – The Yam and the White Cloth" by Oludare Oredipe (writer and artist).
• "Orisha Vol. 1" by Huzayfa Umar (Zayf) (writer and artist).
• "Pawns hop" by LindoYes (writer) and James E Walker, Jaz Malone, Javon McKoy (artists).
• "Saturday Wars: The Manga Multiverse Crossover" by Frederick L. Jones (writer) and Odunze Oguguo, Eddy Frye, Morganne Walker, Jey Odin, Raymond Brown, Oscar Fong, Issaka Galadima (artists).
• "Space Negro – The Last Negro: The Big Black Climax" by Jared Sams (writer and artist).
• "Spirit the Woman of Hope #2" by H.W. Peete (writer) and Dino Agor (artist).
• "Spoof Streetz (Big Ma and Wildin Out Zombies)" by Jeff Carroll (writer) and Jorge Luis Gabotto (artist).
• "Worlds: A One-Shot Anthology" by John Uche, Lord Blue, and Cuisel Peach (writers) and Erivic Adedayo, Stone Otor, Francis Goodluck, Lord Blue, Jeremiah Abah, and Gabriel Onche (artists).

Broader Impact and Future Outlook

The 2026 Glyph Comics Awards underscore a dynamic and evolving comic book industry. The continued success and recognition of creators of color at events like this are vital for fostering a more representative and equitable field. The stories honored this year not only entertain but also provide crucial cultural touchstones and narratives that resonate with diverse audiences. The ECBACC’s dedication to the Glyph Awards ensures that these important voices will continue to be heard and celebrated, inspiring future generations of storytellers and readers alike. As the comic medium continues to expand its reach across various platforms, the Glyph Awards remain a cornerstone in acknowledging and promoting the rich tapestry of talent that defines it.