Trailblazers and Torchbearers: California Think Thank Celebrates the Power of Black Women
Honorees of the 2025 California Black Women’s Trailblazer Hall of Fame were celebrated for their exceptional leadership, innovation, and service to the community pictured with honorees LA County Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell and LA City Councilmember Heather Hutt. Recognized at the event were: 2025 Legacy Trailblazer Hall of Fame Honorees Tinisch Hollins, Adimika Meadows Arthur, Dana Sherrod, MPH, Lyndsey C. Wilson, MA, Hon. Cassandra James, Hon. Dr. Tonia Lediju, Hon. Courtney Welch, Shantay R. Davies-Balch, Dr. Arrickia McDaniel, Shaunelle Curry, Hon. Dr. Gwen Dowdy-Rodgers, Tige Charity, Veronica Gunn, Tiffany Nicole Massey, Kikanza Nuri Robins, Diane Robertson, Esq., Brittany Walker, Ernesta Banks Wright, Dedra "Dee" Sandford, and Cheryl Alethia Phelps. 2025 Legacy Trailblazer Hall of Fame Awardees: Wendy Calhoun, Bridgid Coulter Cheadle, Lisa Collins, Teri Holoman, Nichol Whiteman, and Dr. Lynn Richardson. 2025 Trailblazer Hall of Fame President’s Award, MC Lyte; 2025 Trailblazer Hall of Fame Chairperson Award, Senator Laura Richardson;2022 Legacy Trailblazer Hall of Fame Award, Keisha Thompson Photos by Leroy Hamilton
MC Lyte, Kellie Todd Griffin, and Dr. Lynn Richardson pictured during the 2025 California Black Women’s Trailblazer Hall of Fame celebration. Photo by Leroy Hamilton On June 13, the California Black Women’s Collective Empowerment Institute (CBWCEI) hosted its annual event honoring over two dozen women from across California at the Luxe Sunset Boulevard Hotel in Los Angeles. Themed “The Power of Her: Honoring the Black Women’s Strength, Resilience, and Brilliance,” the evening celebrated the extraordinary leadership of Black women making an impact in every corner of society — from grassroots movements to state government and beyond.
This year’s event was co-chaired by hip-hop icon MC Lyte and nationally recognized financial empowerment strategist Dr. Lynn Richardson. Together, they helped create a space where Black women — often the behind-the-scenes changemakers — were placed squarely in the spotlight, celebrated for their brilliance, resilience, and unwavering dedication to community.
“This event is special because we are honoring our best and brightest,” said Kellie Todd Griffin, President and CEO of CBWCEI.
“We’re creating a safe space for Black women who work tirelessly behind the scenes to have their brilliance recognized and their impact felt—not only across our state but across the nation.”
The Power of Her was more than a theme — it was a declaration of presence, excellence, and legacy.
MC Lyte offered a powerful reflection on the purpose of the gathering:
“This event doesn’t just honor greatness — it nurtures it, documents it, and ensures it becomes a resource for generations to come. Every woman we celebrate tonight is a symbol of what’s possible when purpose meets opportunity.
From grassroots activism to corporate boardrooms, they lead with integrity and impact. These women are not just trailblazers — they are torchbearers, lighting the way for future generations of Black girls and women.”
Dr. Richardson — known for empowering women to build generational wealth through financial literacy and purpose-driven leadership — summed up the evening’s impact:
“This event lifts up Black women leaders shaping a better California for all.”
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