Mary J. Blige’s name has always been synonymous with empowering others, specifically through her iconic music, but she’s now extended that reputation to another successful project. : Festival of Women’s Strength. This year, the Atlanta event has elevated, educated, and empowered to be the number one goal in every aspect of the four-day event (May 11-14) — from a heartwarming gospel brunch on Valentine’s Day. from Mother’s Day and lavish proms to vibrant celebrity-led concerts. But that mission is most evident in Blige’s thoughtful summit held May 13 at AmericasMart, where stars gather to share their knowledge of entrepreneurship, entrepreneurship, health, wellness, etc. to those who attend the festival in the name of solidarity.
Entering the building – decorated with all sorts of fun activities, booths and vibrant pink decor – feels like going to a family reunion. Celebrities and attendees, both seasoned and young, all came together in one space with the aim of making real connections and spreading the word. knowledge. As a Black woman, I feel affirmative to be surrounded by people who look like me. And to think, the event itself is only in its second year.
“It started with a rooftop meeting at the Waldorf Astoria in Los Angeles so far, so it means a lot to have it here.”
Backstage at the event, Blige expressed to POPSUGAR that it was incredible to watch her festival and summit grow from humble beginnings as a simple idea conceived on a rooftop. of a hotel. “It’s amazing. It’s weird because it’s an idea that we had two, three years ago, myself and my team, and now it’s here,” explains the R&B icon. “It started with a rooftop meeting at the Waldorf Astoria in Los Angeles so far, so it means a lot to have it here.”
Curated by Blige and Ayars Agency founder Ashaunna Ayars, in partnership with Pepsi and Live Nation Urban, the Power of Women summit includes panel discussions and programs that highlight the beauty of the community. agreement among women. The all-day event is led by some of the most influential Black voices in a variety of industries — including but not limited to stars like Blige, Ciara, Marsai Martin, Angelica Ross, etc. — and they all have something powerful to offer.
In Martin’s side chat with panelists Gail Bean, Brandee Evans, Raven Goodwin, and Mara Brock Akil, the 18-year-old actress and producer talked about the power she discovers in telling stories. The story of Black people on screen. “I’m constantly growing. I started on ‘Black-ish’ when I was 9 years old… now to be able to create my own content, hire and fire people, can create my dream project. , my strategy, and my plan are the best awards I’ve ever had in my life,” she shared.
Elsewhere, the summit was filled with more touching moments, such as when Blige appeared on the panel stage and was greeted affectionately by the audience while singing back the famous lyrics. Her “Just Fine”. Soon after, the “Power Book II: Ghost” singer and star shared the inspiration behind her festival with the crowd. Blige explains: “The thought process that came from performing and observing how much female audiences love and respect me and love my music has benefited them. “My music is a movement that has touched so many women and saved so many lives, so the pinnacle is about that; what music did, uplifting, encouraging, inspiring. and bring us all together to love each other.”
“Mary is the The woman who overcame it all.”
Blige’s warm intentions behind the Second Power of Women event are evident in every setting; even the stars themselves are amazed at the end result. Speaking to POPSUGAR before his panel, Bean described Blige’s participation in this year’s festival, saying, “Oh my God, it feels great.” The “Snowfall” and “P-Valley” star added, “It’s like old Atlanta. We’re talking about old Atlanta and new Atlanta, so see all the Blacks come out, celebrate it, love, success, good times, all the good things of Atlanta.”
Regarding Blige being the face of the Feminine Power festival, Bean said, “Mary is the The woman overcame it all. So to be able to see her standing here, shining, celebrating, wearing something and giving it back to us, women just need to tell you, one thing: salvation is real. . Two: the undefeated Black woman. So it’s a harbinger of what my future will look like because representation is so important.”
Indeed it is, and Blige couldn’t be a more perfect representation of a woman’s power. This year’s summit is proof.
