Women En Blanc Honors Brunch 2026: An Elegant Celebration of Excellence, Leadership and Legacy

The 8th Annual Women En Blanc Honors Brunch once again set the standard for excellence as one of the most anticipated signature events of Essence of July weekend in New Orleans. Produced by Insights Marketing & Promotionsand curated by Keshia Walker, Founder and President of the award-winning experiential marketing agency, the invitation-only celebration brought together influential women, executives, entrepreneurs, civic leaders, and changemakers for an unforgettable afternoon. Held on Saturday, July 4, at Reverie New Orleans, hosted by radio/tv personality, philanthropist, & entrepreneur Jazzy McBEE; the event embodied elegance, purpose, and empowerment from beginning to end. Guests arrived dressed in sophisticated all-white attire, creating the iconic visual experience that has become synonymous with the Women En Blanc brand. Every detail reflected the organization's commitment to honoring women whose leadership continues to make a lasting impact.

Through Insights Marketing, BLM Sports, & Smirnoff, the brunch was elevated through the support of sponsors and partners committed to celebrating Black excellence and community leadership. The beautifully curated experience featured delicious food,elegant décor, exceptional hospitality, meaningful networking, and inspiring moments that resonated throughout the afternoon. The atmosphere was filled with celebration as attendees connected with accomplished women representing a variety of industries and organizations. More than an awards ceremony, Women En Blanc served as a platform to recognize purpose-driven leadership while encouraging collaboration and sisterhood. The event once again demonstrated why it remains one of the premier gatherings of the holiday weekend.

The 2026 class of honorees reflected excellence across media, advocacy, sports, culture, education, and community service. Cathleen Trigg-Jones, Founder and CEO of iWoman TV, received the Media Visionary Award for her groundbreaking work empowering women through media, storytelling, and entrepreneurship. Cicley Gay, CEO of The Amplifiers, Founder of BLM Sports, and Chairwoman of the BLM Global Network, was honored with the Social Impact & Innovation Award for her visionary leadership and commitment to advancing meaningful social change. Christina Granville, CEO of the I HOOP TOO Foundation, received the Sports Excellence Award in recognition of her dedication to empowering youth through athletics and mentorship. Their remarkable accomplishments highlighted the power of leadership, innovation, and service.

The celebration continued by recognizing women whose work has strengthened communities and preserved culture. Alana Harris, Deputy Director of Arts & Culture, received the Civic & Cultural Award for her commitment to enriching communities through arts, culture, and public service. Sinnidra Taylor, Founder and Executive Director of Friends of Codey's NOLA, was presented with the Community Champion Awardfor her unwavering dedication to youth development, education, and community advocacy. Oluwamodupe "Dupe" Oloyede, the first female Head Drum Major of the Florida A&M University Marching 100, received the HBCU History Maker Award for breaking barriers and inspiring future generations of HBCU students. Each honoree represented the spirit of excellence that defines the Women En Blanc experience.

Under the visionary leadership of Keshia Walker, Women En Blanc continues to evolve as more than an annual brunch—it has become a movement dedicated to celebrating women who lead with purpose, passion, and impact. Every standing ovation, heartfelt tribute, and award presentation reflected the event's mission of recognizing those whose work is transforming communities and industries alike. Guests departed inspired by the stories shared and the remarkable accomplishments of this year's distinguished honorees. Through the continued support of Smirnoff and BLM Sports, valued sponsors, and the dedicated team at Insights Marketing & Promotions, the event once again delivered an unforgettable experience rooted in excellence. As another successful chapter comes to a close, Women En Blanc continues to cement its legacy as a premier celebration of Black women, leadership, and lasting impact.