Empowerment and Celebration at the Strength of a Woman Festival and Summit
By: Angela Redding | Los Angeles, CA | Hollywood Beat magazine | May 6, 2024
Images: MVD/Strength of a Woman Festival and Summit
Mary J. Blige, PEPSI®, Live Nation Urban, and MVD Inc. reveal the lineup, sponsors, and unique opportunities available at the upcoming third annual Strength of a Woman Summit on May 11th at The Glasshouse in New York City. The event will feature co-hosts Jess Hilarious and Gia Peppers, and registration is free for all attendees who sign up online. Register here.
A Free Event
Attendees can enjoy the empowering experience of The Strength Of A Woman Summit without any cost, thanks to the gen erous support of its official sponsors including Mielle Organics, Verizon Business, Starz, and ASCAP.
The Strength of a Woman Summit embodies the festival’s mission of empowerment, elevation, education, and equity through inspiring programming, pivotal panels, keynote speakers, workshops, and experiences. It focuses on wellness, culture, finance, entrepreneurship, style, beauty, podcasts, and more.
Blige’s Vision for the Summit
This amazing event will have well-known speakers like Taraji P. Henson, Tasha Smith, Method Man, Marsai Martin, Larenz Tate, Angie Martinez, Pinky Cole Hayes, Crystal Renee Hayslett, Misa Hylton, Bevy Smith, Claire Sulmers, Michael Rainey Jr., and others. The GRAMMY and Emmy award-winning, Oscar-nominated artist, actress, producer, entrepreneur, and founder of Strength of a Woman Festival and Summit, Mary J. Blige, will also be joining one of the panel discussions.
Blige’s vision for the Summit is not only to showcase amazing talent but also to provide valuable resources to uplift, inspire, and empower the New York community, helping attendees succeed in their fields. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to be part of an event that will leave you motivated and equipped for success.
Pepsi Dig In is set to shine the spotlight on five extraordinary female-owned establishments!
PEPSI® is the festival’s returning partner, bringing a delightful culinary experience to attendees at the Pepsi Dig In Village. Along with delicious food, custom cocktails, and mocktails, the event will provide complimentary beverages, showcasing the vibrant flavors of the city. As part of their commitment to supporting Black-owned restaurants, Pepsi Dig In will highlight five amazing female-owned establishments: Slutty Vegan, Melba’s, 2 Girls & A Cookshop, Aunts Et Uncles, and Je T’aime Patisserie. Festival-goers can contribute to the growth and success of these businesses by purchasing their delectable dishes throughout the day.
The Strength of a Woman Festival and Summit is Created and Curated by an all-Black, Female Team
The Strength of a Woman Festival and Summit is a unique event organized by the renowned Grammy award-winning artist, Mary J. Blige. This festival stands out as the only one in the market that is created and curated by an all-Black, female team. Set to take place in the birthplace of Hip-Hop, New York City, this festival promises to deliver unforgettable experiences with three nights filled with amazing music and entertainment.
Last year, tickets sold out in less than 72 hours, highlighting the immense popularity of this event. Get ready for an extraordinary spring festival!
For additional details visit SOAWFESTIVAL
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Summit Schedule:
*Doors will open at 9:30 AM.
Welcome from Jess Hilarious
- Time: 10:00-10:05 AM
Morning Motivation and Prayer Featuring Tasha Smith
- Time: 10:05-10:15 AM
From Crisis to Care: Navigating Mental Health in the Black Community
- Time: 10:20-11:05 AM
- Program Description: True wealth is mental wellness. We’re bringing togetherpowerful Black voices to drop gems on managing life’s everyday challenges while keeping our minds on point. This isn’t just a panel — it’s a roadmap to inner strength, grace and resilience. Discover practical self-care strategies and unlock a healthier, happier you.
- Moderator: Kristi Henderson, DE&I Executive & Planned Parenthood LA &California Affiliates Board Of Directors
- Talent: Dr. Thema, Notable Black Psychologist; Shanti Das, CEO/Founder ofSilence the Shame; Sharon Content, CEO/Founder Children of Promise NYC
Respect the Architect: Become the Architect of your Life
- Time: 11:10-11:40 AM
- Program Description: From styling music icons to shaping cultural trends, MisaHylton has left an indelible mark on fashion and entertainment. Get ready to be inspired as the fashion icon and her specially curated guests share their secrets to success and resilience through undeniable creativity across the board. Don’t miss a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to embrace your unique vision, unlock your potential, and chart a course towards designing the life you’ve always wanted.
- Moderator: Misa Hylton, Image Architect & Designer
- Talent: LaTonya Blige-DaCosta, COO of MJB Productions; Simone I. Smith,Jewelry Designer; Madison Star Brim, Artist, Designer, Birthworker
Operation Secure The Bag: The Keys to Unlocking Financial Freedom
- Time: 11:45-12:30 PM
- Program Description: Level up and learn wealth-building strategies fromcorporate executives as a discussion about financial freedom takes center stage. The conversation is brought to you by Pepsi Dig In —the brand’s platform designed to drive access, business growth and awareness for Black-owned restaurants, by providing resources, mentorship, and training to restaurateurs to upskill their businesses. Join us for a conversation on entrepreneurship, financial planning, and how the Black community can crack the economic ceiling IRL. Don’t just dream of setting yourself free — gather the real keys to stacking generational coins. Your journey to prosperity starts here.
- Moderator: Pinky Cole Hayes, Founder/CEO Slutty Vegan and Bar VeganAuthority, Philanthropist
- Talent: Rosezena “The BizLawyer” Pierce, CEO & Founding Trademark Attorneyof R.J Pierce Law Group, P.C.; Nicole George-Middleton, SVP, Membership, ASCAP; Sherrese Clarke Soares, CEO/Founder Harbourview Equity Partners
Girl Talk with MJB
- Time: 12:35-1:35 PM
- Program Description: The girls are talkin’! Experience this unfiltered conversation that celebrates the magical bond of Black women’s friendships as MJB and her celebrity besties Angie Martinez, Taraji P. Henson and Tasha Smith talk about life, love, dating, and everything in between. Celebrate the strength and sisterhood of Black women as we toast to the joys and triumphs of everyday life with the women we love most!
- Moderator: Angie Martinez, Radio Icon, Creator and Host of Angie MartinezIRL (In Real Life)
- Talent: Mary J. Blige; Taraji P. Henson, Actress; Tasha Smith, Actress/Director
You CAN Sit With Us: Cultivating and Maintaining Sustainable Community
- Time: 1:40-2:25 PM
- Program Description: Explore the power of community and friendship as wediscuss ways to foster healthier connections among Black women. From overcoming toxic environments or friend groups to embracing inclusivity, discover the keys to building meaningful relationships. Don’t let societal barriers break us — it’s time to redefine sisterhood and create a space where everyone belongs.
- Moderator: Gia Peppers, Award-Winning On-Air Talent, EntertainmentJournalist, and Podcaster
- Talent: Heather Lowery, Founder Next Gem Femme; Marsai Martin, Actress; Crystal Renee Hayslett, Actress, Producer, Host; Shari Bryant, Co President of Roc Nation Label
Verizon Small Business Panel – The State of Small Business: How Female Leaders Can Be The Driving Force of Change
- Time: 2:30-3:00 PM
- Program Description: Small businesses are the fabric of communities acrossthe country, often having a significant economic impact on a local and national scale. Women-owned businesses continue to increase – ranging in the millions if not tens of millions. So, how can female leaders drive true change within their organizations and in the broader business landscape?Join us for a lively conversation with Verizon Business leaders focused on the state of small business, the importance of prioritizing diverse voices, and how we as women are uniquely positioned to navigate the extraordinary challenges many businesses are facing today. Panelists will zero in on trends they’re seeing in the field and what is resonating most with small businesses, such as new technology and social constructs, taking a deep dive into how we can support both the individual business owner and the communities they operate in. And finally, the discussion will cover how organizations like Verizon are championing small businesses, from tailored solutions, to programs such as Small Business Digital Ready, which offers over 50 courses, peer networking, 1:1 expert coaching and incentives such as grant funding to small businesses across the country.
- Moderator: Brave Williams, Entrepreneur, Multi-unit Developer & Owner, BeBRAVE Founder & CEO
- Talent: Aparna Khurjekar, SVP & CRO, Business Markets & SaaS;Dawn McNellis, Senior Director, Business Sales; Sonal Patel, Vice President, Business Marketing
We Set The Trends: Developing Your Personal Style
- Time: 3:05-3:35 PM
- Program Description: Don’t know which looks match your vibe? Say less. Gainthe skills you need to elevate your style game and discover how Black culture influences fashion from designer OGs and today’s rising influencers who are innovating the style & beauty industries. It’ll be an electrifying celebration of Black trends, creativity, and individuality.
- Moderator: Bevy Smith, Author, TV and Radio Host
- Talent: Claire Sulmers, CEO/Founder, Fashion Bomb Daily; Kim Kimble,Celebrity Hairstylist, Entrepreneur; Tahira Wright, Founder, The Cut Life
Black Women’s Health: Everything Your Mother Never Told You
- Time: 3:40-4:20 PM
- Program Description: Trust. This isn’t your mother’s typical health talk. In fact,it’s an eye-opening discussion that will delve into rarely discussed topics from fibroids to perimenopause to that feeling you get when “your nerves are bad.” We’re breaking the silence and equipping you with the tools not passed from generation to generation. Don’t miss a chance to learn new knowledge and reclaim more power.
- Moderator: Tunde Oyeneyin, New York Times Best Selling Author, PelotonInstructor and Global Nike Athlete
- Talent: Bea Dixon,CEO, Co-Founder and Chief Innovation Officer of the HoneyPot Company; Coach Gessie Thompson, Health Activist & Founder, The Detox Now; Dr. Stephanie Thompson, Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility (REI) Physician
Our Men Honor the Strength of a Woman
- Time: 4:25-5:10 PM
- Program Description: Join us for a dynamic discussion led by a lineup ofinfluential male voices who will share their love of Black women. Don’t miss your chance to hear firsthand from the men who recognize and appreciate the strength, beauty, and magic of Black women.
- Moderator: Da’Vinchi, Actor
- Talent: Method Man, Actor; Larenz Tate, Actor; Michael Rainey Jr., Actor; Mekai Curtis, Actor
Closing Remarks
- Time: 5:10-5:15 PM
The Strength of a Woman Festival and Summit is produced by MVD Inc., an internationally acclaimed creative production agency led by co-founders and sisters Miatta Johnson and Massah David.
HB | Hollywood Beat magazine 
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