In All Things of Entertainment Galas
On Saturday, February 7, the Fifteen Percent Pledge Gala hosted its annual fundraising gala at Paramount Studios in Los Angeles as part of the 15th Street Block Party Weekend.
Hosted by CNN anchor Abby Phillip, the star-studded evening honored Ms. Tina Knowles for her extraordinary leadership and advocacy, while also awarding a $100,000 grant to Black-owned beauty brand MAED.
The gala brought together a dynamic group of leaders, creatives, and changemakers—including Kelly Rowland, Law Roach, Winnie Harlow, Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, Chlöe Bailey, Rachel Zoe, Kimora Lee Simmons, and more—united in celebration of Black entrepreneurs and the Fifteen Percent Pledge’s continued national impact supporting Black-owned businesses.
The event is especially important because it not only raises critical funding, but also amplifies visibility, access, and retail equity for Black founders—core pillars of the Fifteen Percent Pledge’s mission to encourage major retailers to dedicate 15% of shelf space to Black-owned brands.
By convening influential cultural figures, investors, and business leaders in one space, the gala helps drive partnerships, open doors for emerging brands, and sustain long-term economic empowerment within Black communities.
Supporters can get involved in several meaningful ways: by taking the Fifteen Percent Pledge as consumers and consciously shopping Black-owned brands; by advocating for their workplaces or favorite retailers to commit to the pledge; by donating or sponsoring future initiatives and grants; and by attending or promoting local Fifteen Percent Pledge events and activations. Every purchase, partnership, and pledge helps expand opportunities for Black entrepreneurs and strengthens a more equitable retail landscape.
