Beckford, who is of Jamaican and Chinese ancestry, became a household name as the main model for the fashion house of Ralph Lauren. Having graced countless billboards, been featured in numerous ads, and strutted down catwalks worldwide, Beckford hosts the automotive series "Fine Tuned" on the Speed Channel. He's also appeared in a number of films and television shows, including the just-completed films, "Kings of the Evening," in which he co-stars with Lynn Whitfield and Glynn Turman, and "Hotel California," which he co-produced.

"Our theme this year is Fashion, Stars and Cars, and Tyson epitomizes each aspect -- he's a top fashion model, a star, and hosts his own car show on TV," notes Payton. "We're delighted to have him take part in this year's event. It's going to be a great show."

Said Beckford: "Cars have always been a passion of mine and I am honored to be asked to present at the Urban Wheel Awards. Throughout my career I have always worked to have diversity be embraced -- and that's what the UWA does."

The show honors pioneering automotive industry leaders who transcend the mainstream and embrace diversity to create products and services that appeal to a larger customer base. This star-studded awards forum recognizes the top African-American, Asian-American and Latino executives in the automotive and ancillary industries. The event will include top-notch entertainment, industry leaders, and Hollywood stars presenting the UWA awards to winners in 12 categories.

Presented during Press Week of the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, UWA will be at Detroit's elegant Fox Theatre. Reception begins at 5pm, award presentations begin at 7pm.

For more information about the 12th Annual Urban Wheel Awards, to obtain tickets, or to sponsor the event, visit www.urbanwheelawards.com or call (313) 963-2209.