Celebrating Visionaries: Patti LaBelle, Ursula Burns, Keia Clarke, and More Honored at ESSENCE’s 2025 Black Women in Business Luncheon

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What specific business ventures has Patti LaBelle successfully established beyond her music career?

Recognizing Trailblazers in Business and Entertainment

ESSENCE’s 2025 black Women in Business Luncheon, held today, October 14th, 2025, was a powerful testament to the achievements of black women across diverse industries.The event, a cornerstone of the magazine’s commitment to celebrating Black female leadership, honored a remarkable group of innovators, entrepreneurs, and cultural icons. This year’s honorees included legendary singer Patti LaBelle, tech executive Ursula Burns, marketing leader Keia Clarke, and numerous other inspiring figures. The luncheon underscored the importance of diversity and inclusion in the corporate world and the enduring impact of Black women on the global economy.

Honoree Spotlights: Achievements and Impact

This year’s honorees represent a spectrum of success stories, demonstrating the multifaceted talents and unwavering determination of Black women.

Patti LaBelle: Beyond the Music – A Business Mogul

while globally recognized for her iconic voice and decades-long music career, Patti LaBelle‘s business acumen often goes understated. Beyond record sales and sold-out concerts, LaBelle has successfully built a brand encompassing cookbooks, home goods, and a dedicated fanbase that translates into consistent entrepreneurial ventures.Her ability to connect with audiences on a personal level has been key to her sustained success, making her a role model for Black entrepreneurship and brand building. LaBelle’s influence extends beyond entertainment, inspiring countless individuals to pursue their passions and build lasting legacies.

Ursula Burns: Breaking Barriers in Tech Leadership

Ursula Burns‘s journey to becoming the first African American woman to lead a Fortune 500 company – Xerox – is a story of perseverance and extraordinary leadership. Her tenure at Xerox saw notable innovation and strategic shifts, solidifying her reputation as a transformative figure in the technology sector. Burns continues to champion STEM education for underrepresented groups and serves as a vocal advocate for corporate diversity. Her current role as Chairman of VEON further demonstrates her continued commitment to global business leadership.

Keia Clarke: Pioneering Marketing Innovation

Keia Clarke, a renowned marketing executive, was recognized for her groundbreaking work in building brands and driving consumer engagement. Clarke’s expertise lies in leveraging data analytics and innovative marketing strategies to achieve measurable results. She has consistently pushed boundaries in the digital marketing landscape, advocating for inclusive campaigns that resonate with diverse audiences. Her leadership has been instrumental in shaping the future of marketing and advertising.

The Power of Networking and Mentorship

A recurring theme throughout the luncheon was the critical role of networking and mentorship in fostering career advancement for Black women. Several speakers emphasized the importance of:

* Building strong professional relationships: Actively seeking out mentors and sponsors who can provide guidance and support.

* Creating supportive communities: Connecting with other Black women in business to share experiences and offer encouragement.

* Investing in the next generation: Mentoring young women and providing them with the resources they need to succeed.

* Leveraging professional organizations: Joining groups like the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) or the National Black MBA Association to expand networks and access opportunities.

ESSENCE’s Commitment to Black Women in Business

ESSENCE’s annual luncheon is more than just an awards ceremony; it’s a platform for fostering dialog, celebrating achievements, and empowering Black women to reach their full potential. The magazine’s ongoing initiatives, including its Black Women in business summit and online resources, provide valuable tools and support for entrepreneurs and professionals at all stages of their careers. The event also highlighted the importance of financial literacy and access to capital for Black-owned businesses.

Real-World Impact: Case Studies in Black Female Leadership

The luncheon served as a reminder of the tangible impact Black women are making across various sectors. Consider these examples:

1. Lisa Nichols: Founder and CEO of Motivating the Masses, a multi-million dollar personal progress company, demonstrating success in the personal development industry.
2. Mary Winston: Former Vice President of Nike, showcasing leadership in sports apparel and retail.
3. Janelle monáe: A multi-talented artist and entrepreneur, proving the power of creative entrepreneurship.

These women, and the honorees at the ESSENCE luncheon, exemplify the resilience, innovation, and leadership that define Black women in business.

Benefits of Supporting Black Women-Owned Businesses

Investing in Black-owned businesses yields significant economic and social benefits:

* Economic Empowerment: Creates jobs and wealth within the Black community.

* Community Development: Strengthens local economies and fosters entrepreneurship.

* Innovation and Diversity: Introduces new products, services, and perspectives to the marketplace.

* Closing the Wealth Gap: Addresses systemic inequalities and promotes economic justice.

Resources like the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC) can help connect businesses with minority-owned suppliers.

Practical Tips for Aspiring Black Female Entrepreneurs

For those looking to launch their own ventures, here are a few practical tips:

* **develop a