Hundreds of Black women gathered in Las Vegas for the 20th annual BLACK ENTERPRISE Women of Power Summit, the premier professional development conference for women of color. The four-day event provided attendees with essential tools, networking opportunities, and information to advance their careers. A highlight of the summit was the Luminary Awards Luncheon, where five distinguished leaders were honored for paving the way for future generations of women executives and business titans.
Honorees Share Inspirational Messages
Each honoree delivered an inspirational message while accepting their award, sharing insights from their journeys and encouraging others. The summit featured a comprehensive agenda, including panel discussions, one-on-one career and financial coaching, and networking opportunities designed to foster growth and connection among attendees.
The honorees recognized for their extraordinary contributions include Bozoma Saint John, Angela Rye, Jotaka Eaddy, Sandra Douglass Morgan, and Shelly Cayette-Weston. Their achievements span various fields, from marketing and policy advocacy to sports business and corporate leadership, reflecting the diverse impact Black women are making across industries.
Profiles of the Honorees
**Bozoma Saint John:** An acclaimed marketer, author, and founder of Eve by Boz, Saint John is a cultural force who has led marketing efforts for major brands like PepsiCo, Apple Music, Uber, and Netflix. Her memoir, “The Urgent Life,” was published in 2023, and she appeared on “The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills” in 2024. Forbes named her the “Most Influential Chief Marketing Officer in the World.”
**Angela Rye, Esq.:** An award-winning host, attorney, political strategist, and social justice advocate. As CEO of IMPACT Strategies, Rye has mentored over 500 leaders in government, corporations, and nonprofits. She co-created “State of the People” and co-hosts the NAACP Image Award-winning podcast “Native Land Pod.”
**Jotaka Eaddy:** A recognized advocate, strategist, and connector with over 20 years of experience in policy and movement building. She is the visionary leader behind Win With Black Women, a network that has influenced major national moments, including Kamala Harris’s presidential run and the confirmation of the first Black woman Supreme Court Justice.
**Sandra Douglass Morgan:** Made history in 2022 as the first Black woman president of an NFL team, the Las Vegas Raiders. She has driven revenue growth, community engagement, and secured major events like the Super Bowl and Pro Bowl. Morgan previously broke barriers as Nevada’s first Black city attorney and the first Black chair of the Nevada Gaming Control Board.
**Shelly Cayette-Weston:** A powerful figure in professional sports, serving as president of business operations for Hornets Sports & Entertainment. Previously, she was the executive vice president and chief commercial officer of the Cleveland Cavaliers, becoming the first Black woman to hold that title for an NBA franchise. She significantly expanded fan experiences and youth sports access during her 12-year tenure.
Which of these Women of Power inspires you the most? What lessons can we take from their journeys? Share your thoughts in the comments below!