HER POWER, HER PROSPERITY: National Urban League Celebrates Black Excellence at the 6th Annual Women in Harmony Awards Luncheon Held During Essence Festival of Culture Weekend, July 5th, 2025 | The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans

New Orleans became the epicenter of Black excellence and empowerment on Saturday, July 5th, as the National Urban League (NUL) hosted its 6th Annual Women in Harmony Awards Luncheon at the luxurious Ritz-Carlton Hotel. This year’s red carpet celebration, held under the powerful theme “Her Power, Her Prosperity,†honored four trailblazing women whose impact has reverberated across entertainment, politics, beauty, and culture: Patti LaBelle, Mara Brock Akil, U.S. Representative Jasmine Crockett, and Danessa Myricks.

As part of the Essence Festival of Culture Weekend, the exclusive, invitation-only affair brought together over 350 guests for an afternoon that was both deeply inspiring and undeniably star-studded.

Honoring Icons Who Shape the Culture

Patti LaBelle, the iconic GRAMMY®-winning “Godmother of Soul,†was recognized not only for her unmatched vocal career but also for her philanthropic leadership and legacy as a cultural matriarch.

Mara Brock Akil, the visionary writer and producer behind Girlfriends, Being Mary Jane, and The Game, was celebrated for her authentic storytelling and the elevation of Black women’s narratives in television.

U.S. Representative Jasmine Crockett (D-Texas) received the honor for her bold leadership in Congress, fearless advocacy for justice, and commitment to uplifting underrepresented communities.

Danessa Myricks, the groundbreaking beauty entrepreneur and founder of Danessa Myricks Beauty, was acknowledged for revolutionizing inclusive makeup artistry and championing diversity in the cosmetics industry.

An Atmosphere of Empowerment and Celebration

Hosted in a setting as elegant as its honorees, the luncheon featured moving acceptance speeches that echoed the afternoon’s theme—power rooted in purpose and prosperity born from perseverance. Attendees were also treated to soul-stirring performances by GRAMMY-winner Howard Hewett, rising star MAJOR, and motivational insight from best-selling author and mindset coach Dr. Cheryl P. Williamson.

The event’s “Self-Care Lounge†offered guests rejuvenating experiences, from skincare and makeup consultations to holistic wellness activations—highlighted, of course, by products from Danessa Myricks Beauty.

Celebrity Guests and Cultural Tastemakers

The afternoon sparkled with the presence of cultural leaders and entertainment royalty. Special guest attendees included Tisha Campbell, Stephanie Mills, Muni Long, Jotaka Eaddy, Dominique Sharpton, D-Nice, Marlo Hampton, Crystal Renee Hayslett, Schelle Purcell, Cortez Smith, and fashion designer Sergio Hudson, among others.

From music and politics to fashion and film, the room radiated Black brilliance and unity.

National Urban League: Uplifting Communities Since 1910

Now in its 114th year, the National Urban League continues to lead the charge for economic empowerment, social justice, and equality. With 92 affiliates in 37 states and D.C., NUL delivers direct services that impact more than two million people annually.

Speaking at the event, NUL President Marc H. Morial and SVP & Chief Marketing Officer Rhonda Spears Bell emphasized the importance of honoring women who are not only successful in their fields but are also courageous enough to use their platforms for good.

“Each year, the National Urban League is pleased to highlight empowering women who are mission-aligned with the critical work we are doing,†said Spears Bell. “This year’s slate of honorees are individuals who not only recognize the power of their platforms but are also not afraid to speak up and empower others to do the same.â€

A Legacy of Impact, A Future of Possibility

The Women in Harmony Awards Luncheon continues to grow in cultural significance, celebrating the evolving stories of Black women leaders who are shaping the world with their vision, voice, and values.

As the weekend’s red carpet moments fade, the message remains clear: Black women are not just breaking barriers—they’re rebuilding systems, reclaiming narratives, and redefining prosperity on their own terms.

For more information about the National Urban League and its initiatives, visit www.nul.org or follow @NatUrbanLeague on social media.