Black Excellence Stole The Show At 2024 EBONY Power 100 Gala

EBONY hosted its annual Power 100 Gala at Nya Studios in Hollywood on Sunday (Nov. 17) in celebration of the 2024 list that honored “Black achievement across 10 diverse categories.”

Hosted by Survival Of The Thickest stars Michelle Buteau and Tone Bell, the event honored six prominent figures. Cynthia Erivo was honored as Pathbreaker of the Year. Fawn Weaver of Uncle Nearest was named Entrepreneur of the Year. Usher was recognized as Global Visionary of the Year. Dr. Kimberlé Crenshaw earned the Humanitarian Award while Da’Vine Joy Randolph won the People’s Choice Award. Vice President Kamala Harris was recognized as Icon of the Year.

Of this year’s Power 100, EBONY CEO Eden Bridgeman said in a statement: “We have been gearing up for the most anticipated EBONY Power 100 yet. This iconic list is not just a celebration; it’s a vital recognition of those who are shaping culture and driving real change in our communities. At a time when honoring Black excellence is more important than ever, the excitement is building, and we are excited to unveil the transformative leaders who will define this year’s EBONY Power 100!”

Guests in attendance included Keith Lee, Jay Pharoah, Jordan Chiles, Nina Parker, Nile Rodgers, Yung Miama, Yaya DaCosta, Sean Bankhead, BIA, Alex Isley, Brandon Blackwood, and more.

Usher, Weaver, Crenshaw, and Randolph all accepted their awards in person while Congresswoman Nikema Williams accepted on Harris’ behalf and Vanessa Bell Calloway accepted on Erivo’s behalf. Both Coco Jones and Durand Bernarr took the stage with captivating performances. Other presenters included Mayor Karen Bass, Michael Strahan, Kelvin Harrison Jr., and Emayatzy Corinealdi.

During her acceptance speech, Randolph shared, “When I think of all the people who came before us and all the things that they accomplished, I’m beyond grateful to stand here today and be counted in that number.”

Additionally, Jonathan Majors and Meagan Good announced their engagement on the Power 100 red carpet, dispelling recent breakup rumors.

“It’s a season of joy,” Majors told PEOPLE when speaking on the proposal. Good added, “It’s a season of all the good things,” with Majors chiming in, “Amen.” The two chose to announce their engagement at the gala because it’s where they met two years ago.

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