The Ebony Power 100 Gala is back, spotlighting the unstoppable force of Black excellence in entertainment, culture, and leadership. This year’s honorees include some of the most dynamic and influential figures, such as Teyana Taylor, the star of "One Battle After Another," and Olandria Carthen, who rose to fame on "Love Island USA." But here’s where it gets controversial—these selections not only celebrate success but also spark conversations about what it truly means to shape culture today.
Teyana Taylor will be honored as Entertainer of the Year at the gala, set for November 4 at the Beverly Hilton in Los Angeles. This award recognizes her as a multifaceted artist who is redefining entertainment for a new generation. Her recent achievements include a critically acclaimed role in Paul Thomas Anderson’s latest film and the release of her innovative visual album, "Escape Room," which blends music and storytelling in fresh ways. Taylor’s journey exemplifies how artists today wear many hats—singer, actor, director—and challenge traditional boundaries.
Meanwhile, Olandria Carthen, who captured hearts and social media attention on "Love Island USA," will receive the fan-voted People’s Choice Award. Her win is particularly notable because she was up against heavyweights like Tony-winning legend Audra McDonald, acclaimed singer Elmiene, Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett, tennis star Taylor Townsend, and Emmy nominee Tracee Ellis Ross. This highlights how reality TV stars can now compete with established icons for cultural influence, a shift that some might find surprising or even contentious.
Speaking of Tracee Ellis Ross, she will also be specially honored with the Pathbreaker of the Year award. This accolade celebrates her outstanding artistry and her tireless efforts to promote representation and inclusion within both the entertainment and beauty industries. Ross’s work challenges the status quo and opens doors for more diverse voices, making her recognition a powerful statement about progress and ongoing challenges.
The gala’s lineup of honorees continues with legendary supermodel Iman, who will receive the Icon of the Year award in honor of her groundbreaking 50-year career in fashion. Lonnie G. Bunch III, the 14th secretary of the Smithsonian Institution, will be recognized as Humanitarian of the Year for his impactful leadership and dedication to preserving history and culture. NBA legend turned business mogul Shaquille O’Neal will be celebrated as Entrepreneur of the Year, showcasing how athletes can successfully transition into influential business roles.
Hosting the event is comedian, writer, and actor Robin Thede, whose sharp wit and insightful commentary promise to keep the evening engaging and memorable. This year’s gala also marks Ebony’s 80th anniversary, a milestone that underscores the brand’s enduring commitment to uplifting Black voices and achievements.
Under the leadership of CEO Eden Bridgeman Sklenar, Ebony continues to champion Black excellence across all fields. The Power 100 list this year features a diverse array of trailblazers, including former First Lady Michelle Obama and actor Craig Robinson as hosts of "The IMO Podcast," music prodigy Blue Ivy Carter, television creators Mara Brock Akil (known for "Girlfriends" and "Forever"), Emmy winner and Oscar nominee Sterling K. Brown, Tony Award winner Kara Young, Indianapolis Colts linebacker Zaire Franklin, recent "Saturday Night Live" cast member Ego Nwodim, activist and creator RaeShanda Lias, Waymo co-CEO Tekedra N. Mawakana, NASCAR driver Bubba Wallace, and stars of the series "Sinners," Wunmi Mosaku and Miles Caton.
The full roster of Power 100 honorees celebrates leaders who are shaping culture across ten distinct categories: artists in residence, business disruptors, community crusaders, entertainment powerhouses, generation next (rising stars under 40), influential creators, leaders in sports, media mavens, music innovators, and STEM trailblazers. For those eager to explore the complete list and learn more about these inspiring figures, Ebony’s website offers detailed profiles and insights at https://www.ebony.com/power-100-2025/.
What do you think about the mix of honorees this year? Does the inclusion of reality TV stars alongside established icons signal a shift in how we define influence and power? Or does it dilute the prestige of such awards? Share your thoughts and join the conversation below—because recognizing Black excellence is not just about celebration, but also about dialogue and growth.
