In its 13th year, the Bayside Gospel Concert has proven that it is more than just a concert—it’s a San Diego summer tradition. Year after year, the event brings together faith, fellowship and unforgettable music, making it one of the most anticipated gospel celebrations in America’s Finest City.
Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the San Diego skyline aboard the historic USS Midway Museum, concertgoers enjoyed an evening filled with soul-stirring performances from some of gospel music’s most gifted artists. As the sun set over the bay, the music took center stage, and this year’s lineup did not disappoint.
Artists blessing the audience included Alexis Spight, La’Kea Stokes, Carolyn Traylor, Sonya Griffin, Amari Michelle and Diamond Brandon. Each performer brought a unique style and powerful message, leaving the audience inspired and uplifted.
Dallas native La’Kea Stokes delivered an energetic, non-traditional blend of gospel and R&B with her performance of “Who Am I,” quickly getting the crowd on its feet. Sonya Griffin, accompanied by local back-up singers, brought the house down with a spirited and heartfelt rendition of “Thank You,” filling the flight deck with praise and celebration.
Presented by Mandate Project Impact, Inc., GODRadio1.com and M.A.N.D.A.T.E. Records, Inc., the evening celebrated more than music. It also honored extraordinary women whose leadership and service continue to strengthen the San Diego community.
Among those recognized was Chida Warren, a second-generation Black newspaper publisher of The Voice & Viewpoint, San Diego’s longest-running African American newspaper. Warren currently serves in the administration of San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria as Director of Appointments, Boards and Commissions, helping ensure that diverse community voices are represented in local government.
Francine Maxwell, a lifelong San Diegan, entrepreneur and respected community advocate, was also honored. A product of California’s second-largest school district, Maxwell learned early the importance of advocacy and leadership, often serving as one of the few African Americans in key decision-making spaces.
The evening also recognized Rhonda Hunt-Phillips, an accomplished executive, mentor and community leader whose distinguished career spans more than four decades in federal leadership and logistics. As Executive Director of the Naval Air Technical Data and Engineering Service Center, she led transformative initiatives that modernized Navy aviation technical data systems, earning the prestigious Navy Meritorious Civilian Service Medal.
Poet, advocate and community leader Diamond Brandon was honored for her work rooted in healing, justice and collective empowerment. As Director of Community Partnerships for the California Labor Federation, she leads statewide initiatives that expand protections and opportunities for workers, particularly within Black and Brown communities. She also serves as Chief Consultant for S&S Friendly Ranch, LLC, her family’s Black-owned ranch in San Diego’s Tijuana River Valley, where she helps create healing retreats, cultural celebrations and community wellness programs.
Another honoree, Kea Hagan, Chief Operating Officer of the Urban League of San Diego County, was recognized for her visionary leadership. As the first woman to serve as COO of the affiliate, Hagan continues to inspire through her commitment to advancing equity and empowering others.
Sabrina D. Bishop was celebrated for her unwavering dedication as a caregiver, advocate and community leader. Her commitment to service, shaped by her personal experiences caring for her mother, reflects a life devoted to compassion, equity and servant leadership.
Olympian and World Championship bronze medalist Sheila Burrell was recognized for her extraordinary impact both on and off the track. Now entering her 17th season as head coach of San Diego State University’s track and field program, Burrell continues to develop champions in athletics and in life through her mentorship and leadership.
Also honored was Zykina Stewart, CEO of Evolve Coaching Solutions and First Lady of Greater Life Church. A faith-filled leader, Stewart has spent more than 16 years helping individuals navigate life’s challenges as an Advanced Grief Recovery Specialist, Certified Life Coach, Christian Coach and community mentor.
There are few ways to spend a summer evening more inspiring than beneath the stars aboard the USS Midway, surrounded by the beauty of San Diego Bay and the uplifting sounds of gospel music. The Bayside Gospel Concert once again delivered an evening filled with hope, joy and community.
Congratulations to this year’s honorees, the outstanding performers, and the dedicated hosts—GODRadio1.com, Mandate Project Impact, Inc., and M.A.N.D.A.T.E. Records—for 13 years of bringing the power of gospel music and community together in San Diego. Here’s to many more years of inspiration on the bay.