EBONY celebrates 80 Years with a Star-Studded Power 100 Gala
Reflecting on 80 years of EBONY, one thinks about its innovation and history. Teh Power 100 Gala highlighted a moment of new beginnings. The evening was a party of the new era of talent and tastemakers leading change within the community.The night brought together notable honorees to commemorate the achievements and contributions of those who influence the world. Hosted by the talented Robin Thede,the night was filled with inspiring moments,vivacious performances,and heartfelt tributes at the Beverly Hilton in los Angeles.
Attendees arrived dressed in their finest attire, exuding nothing but style and grace. Team EBONY, along with our stunning red carpet host Gia Peppers, caught up with many of our EBONY friends and family. Led by CEO Eden Bridgeman Sklenar, EBONY’s legacy continues to celebrate and elevate Black excellence, and the year’s Power 100 honorees embody that mission. “This evening we remember two visionaries, John H. Johnson and Junior Bridgeman, born into eras that made little room for their dreams, yet they dreamed anyway,” Bridgeman Sklenar said.
The success of the EBONY Power 100 Gala was made possible through the generous support of key sponsors, including Nationwide, United Airlines, and AARP, who demonstrated their commitment to diversity and inclusion by partnering with Power 100.
The evening started with a warm welcome from Thede, whose dynamic personality and wit set the tone. Known for her comedic technique, Thede navigated the program with fun, charm and grace, keeping the audience entertained while highlighting the significance of the Power 100 honorees. “When EBONY magazine was created, it immediately became a national treasure in our community, [and] tonight, we celebrate the fact that 80 years later, it still is,” Thede said.
Among the standout performances of the night were the soulful voices of Ari Lennox and Lucky Daye. The room was filled with an electric energy, igniting a joyous atmosphere of celebration throughout their performances.
The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly the recognition of the notable honorees. Entertainer of the year, Teyana Taylor, a multi-hyphenate, is recognized as a force in music, film, and fashion, redefining the term for a new generation. “God is the author, and he is the mediator,” taylor said. “God was the one who wrote my story before I even knew I’d be standing here tonight.”
Icon Awardee Iman, a supermodel and entrepreneur, was celebrated for her pioneering career in fashion spanning over 50 years, her business innovations and her enduring influence as a philanthropist and activist. Shaquille O’Neal, a b
## EBONY Celebrates Black Excellence at the 2024 Power 100 Gala
The EBONY power 100 Gala, held recently, was a resounding success, fostering a spirit of unity and celebrating the achievements of influential Black individuals across various fields. The event brought together leaders, innovators, and artists, recognizing their contributions and highlighting the richness of Black culture. The gala underscored EBONY’s commitment to honoring Black excellence and inspiring future generations.
### A Night of Recognition and Reflection
The gala was characterized by moving speeches, captivating performances, and a palpable sense of camaraderie. Attendees celebrated the honorees, representing a diverse range of accomplishments and backgrounds. A central theme of the evening was the importance of remembering and learning from history.
As EBONY’s CEO, Eden Bridgeman Sklenar, noted, the awards are not simply about individual accolades. “This is not about celebrating me; what this award does is celebrate history,” she stated, echoing the words of James Baldwin: “History is not about the past, it’s about today.” [https://www.ebony.com/power-100-gala-2024-photos/](https://www.ebony.com/power-100-gala-2024-photos/)
### The significance of the EBONY Power 100
The EBONY Power 100 list and accompanying gala have long been a cornerstone of recognizing Black achievement. established in 1989, the Power 100 highlights the accomplishments of African Americans who are shaping culture, driving innovation, and making a notable impact in their respective fields. [https://www.ebony.com/news/ebony-power-100-list-2024/](https://www.ebony.com/news/ebony-power-100-list-2024/)
This year’s list included figures from entertainment, business, politics, sports, and beyond. The event served as a powerful reminder of the strength, resilience, and talent within the Black community. The gala’s vibrant atmosphere and celebration of intergenerational talent embodied the spirit of creativity, empowerment, and recognition.
### A Lasting Legacy
The EBONY Power 100 gala was more than just an event; it was an affirmation of Black excellence and a commitment to a brighter future. attendees departed inspired, carrying with them the knowledge that the legacies of those honored will continue to inspire and uplift generations to come.The gala reinforced EBONY’s role as a vital platform for celebrating Black culture and driving positive change.