The Friendship Circle Annual Award of Leadership and Service in honor of Charles Bisong (aka Charlo Biz) is an annual honor given to individuals who have made significant contributions to building and strengthening their community through leadership, collaboration, and engagement. This award honors those who have shown a strong commitment to creating positive change and improving the lives of the people around them.
The Friendship Circle Annual Award of Leadership and Service was established in 2023 in honor of Charles Bisong (aka Charlo Biz), who was a community builder and leader; and is presented annually by The Friendship circle during the gala ceremony.
Born on September 2nd, 1985 to parents Pa Joseph Bisong (of blessed memory) and Ma Prundencia Bisong, Charles Bisong, known affectionately as Charlo Biz, completed his primary and secondary education in Cameroon before immigrating to the United States in 2006 to reunite with his parents and seek new opportunities. Determined to improve his life, Charles worked tirelessly to put himself through school at the Prince George’s Community College, Maryland while reconnecting with friends who shared his passion and drive.
Throughout his life, Charles was known for his kind and gentle nature, welcoming many young Cameroonians to the US and supporting his friends as a loyal member of Spartan FC, a prestigious men’s group in the DMV area. In 2015, when Charles announced his engagement to his Fiancé and the upcoming arrival of their son; His friends rallied around him, forming the flamboyant and extraordinary group of gentlemen known today as The Friendship Circle (TFC). However, in 2016, Charles was diagnosed with gallbladder cancer and faced many challenging months as he pursued his career ambitions as a Cyber Security Analyst while maintaining his faith in God. Despite his illness, Charles lived beyond medical expectations before relocating to Dallas, TX for further medical evaluation in early 2018. Tragically, on February 22nd, 2018, Charles Bisong, beloved husband, father, son, and friend, passed away, leaving behind a loving family and many friends who will always remember him.
The Friendship Circle Annual Award of Leadership and Service in honor of Charles Bisong (aka Charlo Biz) is mirrored after the values exemplified In Charles Bisong’s life. Recipients have demonstrated exceptional leadership skills, promoting inclusivity, diversity and successful entrepreneurial pursuits while also supporting their local communities. Through their efforts, they have helped to create a more vibrant, resilient, and connected community.
The Friendship Circle Annual Award of Leadership and Service is an opportunity to celebrate and honor the work of those who have made a significant impact in their community. It encourages and inspires others to follow in their footsteps, to work towards building a stronger, more cohesive community, and to lead by example. By recognizing these leaders, we can inspire others to work towards creating positive change in their communities, and build a better world for all.
