10/17/2026
SPECIAL RECOGNITION | 3RD ANNUAL IME AWARDS
The power of resilience is not measured by what life takes from you, but by what you continue to give to the world.
The 3rd Annual Indie Music Empowered (IME) Awards is proud to present Lee “SmooveLee” Welch with a Special Recognition Award in honor of his work with the MNFST Foundation and its commitment to breaking barriers, empowering individuals, and inspiring possibilities.
A multifaceted artist, entrepreneur, creative director, philanthropist, and disability advocate from Compton, California, SmooveLee has transformed adversity into purpose. After being shot in the heart in 2017, he began a journey of perseverance that continues to inspire others as he fights to walk again while pursuing his vision across music, entertainment, fashion, and community advocacy.
💥I GOT INSPIRATION 4 SALE💥
As co-founder of the MNFST Foundation, SmooveLee represents the power of using creativity and personal experience to uplift others, support artists, and champion individuals