The Ebony Foundation hosted its annual EBONY Power 100 Gala to honor strong and influential individuals in the African American community for their massive contributions to society. The honorees were spread across eight categories including Disruptors, Community Crusaders, Entrepreneurs, Entertainment & Arts, Innovators, Power Players, MVPs, and the coveted Women Up category.
Over 600 guests, mostly comprised of the who’s who in politics, entertainment, sports, business, philanthropy and social activism, attended. The jam-packed event was hosted by renowned and internationally acclaimed comedian and actor Chris Tucker.
Tucker said that he appreciates EBONY’s efforts to uplift people lives. He was glad and honored to be a part of it.
The night began when media jammed the red carpet to capture a glimpse of the star-studded guest list as well as get statements and opinions on the event before the gala began.
The Ebony Power 100 Gala strives to foster power, especially for the African American community. When rapper and songwriter Saweetie asked by All Urban Central (AUC) what constitutes power, she said that it was believing in oneself. She believes in herself by praying.
The night featured a diverse array of honorees. The Entertainment & Arts category included big names like Barrack and Michelle Obama as authors and media producers, Cardi B, Travis Scott and Drake as rappers, and the cast of “Power,” Alfre Woodard and Shonda Rhimes as actors and actresses.
Disruptors and the Community Crusaders category included #METOO founder Tarana Burke, political commentator Symone Sanders, and founder of #1000BLACKGIRLBOOKS Marley Dias among others.
Big names in the sports industry like Pittsburgh Steeler’s Antonio Brown, tennis champion Venus Williams, Golden State Warriors’ Stephen Curry and Houston Rockets’ James Harden made up the MVPs category.
The evening progressed smoothly with highly anticipated performances from artists James Davis and Ne-Yo. The gala ended with closing remarks from Tucker after which guests proceeded to the after party for after-hours cocktails.