CHICAGO, IL – Kierra Sheard Kelly will host the 2027 SOAR Awards next year. Justin Francis, CEO and founder of SOAR Radio, made the announcement on his Instagram page on Monday (Jun. 22).
By overwhelming demand, we’re excited to officially announce that @kierrasheard (Kierra Sheard Kelly) will return as Host of the 10th Anniversary SOAR Awards,” Francis told his social media followers. “After an unforgettable performance as host during this year’s celebration, the response was undeniable,” the SOAR Radio founder continued.
“You asked, and we listened,” Francis told supporters. “We are thrilled to welcome Kierra back as we celebrate a historic milestone—10 years of honoring excellence in Gospel music, media, and ministry.”
This year’s SOAR Awards was filmed on March 2, 2026, and included several notable moments Among the most impactful segments was Kierra Sheard Kelly’s spontaneous shift from hosting the show to worship that included her praying for everything from mental health issues to physical ailments. Mrs. Kelly even prayed for individuals to accept salvation during the 8-minute segment.
“I’m sorry,” Kierra said at one point. “I want to be hired again,” she added. “Jesus is good.”
Dozens responded to the impromptu segment with praise as they were grateful for Kierra Sheard Kelly’s decision to go off script for a moment of prayer and worship. “She spoke to that atmosphere for a reason,” wrote one supporter after watching the clip on YouTube. “Full obedience to God in Heaven is so needful,” another social media follower said.
The 2027 SOAR Awards will include performances by Darrel Walls, Jabari Johnson, Melvin Crispell III, Anaysha Figueroa-Cooper, and more. Honorees of the night will include Vanessa Bell Armstrong, Pastor Mike Jr., Phil Thornton, Charles Jenkins, Don Jackson, and the late Richard Smallwood.
Taping for the 2027 SOAR Awards will be held in Chicago, Illinois, on March 1, 2027.