Andra Day, Erica Campbell, and Wendy Raquel Robinson Set to Light Up L.A. Focus’ 27th Annual First Ladies High Tea — Star-Studded Celebration Kicks Off June 21 at Fairmont Century Plaza

L.A. Focus Newspaper proudly announces the return of its highly anticipated signature event, the 27th Annual First Ladies High Tea, set for Saturday, June 21, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the prestigious Fairmont Century Plaza Hotel. 

This red-carpet celebration will honor an extraordinary lineup of women who continue to lead, uplift, and serve their communities with excellence and purpose.

Headlining the list of honorees is Oscar-nominated actress and Grammy Award-winning artist Andra Day, who will be presented with the Spirit Award in recognition of her artistic brilliance and unwavering advocacy for social justice. 

Also being honored is Michelle Gaskill-Hames, Regional President of Kaiser Permanente for Southern California and Hawaii, with the Focus Award for her innovative leadership and contributions to healthcare equity.

L.A. City Councilmember Heather Hutt, the first African American woman to represent the city’s 10th District, will receive the Gamechanger Award for her historic impact and commitment to community advancement.

“This event has always been a beautiful celebration of faith, leadership, and sisterhood,” said Councilmember Hutt. “To be recognized among so many inspiring women is truly an honor.”

Returning to host the event is acclaimed actress Wendy Raquel Robinson (The Game, Insecure), bringing her signature charm and energy to the celebration.

She will be joined by co-host Erica Campbell, the multi-Grammy Award-winning gospel artist and First Lady of California Worship Center. Campbell, a longtime supporter of the First Ladies High Tea, will also take the stage for a special family moment as her daughter, rising gospel singer Krista, delivers a live performance.

“I’m always excited to be a part of the First Ladies High Tea,” said Campbell. “It is wonderful to be in a room with such amazing women doing great work. I’m honored to be the cohost this year and to appear with my daughter who is performing.”

In addition to its featured honorees, the celebration will recognize four distinguished First Ladies for their dedication to faith and service: Charlé Johnson (Metropolitan Baptist Church), Dr. Micheline McFarland (Lift International Church), Andrea Robinson (Resurrection Church L.A.), and Bukeka Williams (88th Street Temple COGIC).

Guests will also enjoy performances by the Inner City Youth Orchestra of Los Angeles and the recognition of scholarship recipients from the annual First Ladies High Tea Essay Contest.

Two outstanding students will be awarded $5,000 scholarships in honor of the late Dr. Betty Price and legendary music executive Jheryl Busby.

Since its founding in 1998, the First Ladies High Tea has grown into one of the most esteemed events in the Black faith community, drawing a distinguished crowd of civic leaders, clergy, and celebrities in a powerful display of unity, purpose, and celebration. 

Past honorees have included Vice President Kamala Harris, Debbie Allen, Yolanda Adams, Pat Harvey, CeCe Winans, and the late Cicely Tyson.

This year’s attendees are expected to include Supervisor Holly Mitchell, California State Treasurer Fiona Ma, Councilman Curren Price, and a host of influential leaders and supporters.

MEDIA INQUIRIES:

For press credentials, red carpet access, interview requests, and all media coverage opportunities, please contact:

L.A. Focus Newspaper, Email: lafocus@lafocusnewspaper.com, Phone: (323) 938-9948

BNM Publicity Group, Contact: Pamela Broussard, Email: bnmotionpr@gmail.com, Phone: 310.562.4725

The 27th Annual First Ladies High Tea promises to be a heartfelt and unforgettable celebration of women who lead with faith, compassion, and purpose—uplifting communities and inspiring generations to come.