The Culture Showed Up and Showed Out at the 2025 Culture Creators Brunch

Los Angeles was glowing with Black brilliance as the 9th Annual Culture Creators Brunch returned for another unforgettable celebration. On Saturday, June 7, the Fairmont Century Plaza played host to a guest list full of game changers, icons, and rising stars — all gathered to honor those shaping the culture.

Known as one of the most prestigious events during awards season, the Culture Creators Brunch is where legacy meets innovation, and this year proved why it’s still one of the most powerful rooms in entertainment.

Mayor Karen Bass opened the event with a warm welcome, applauding the work of Culture Creators in elevating Black voices in LA and beyond.

Performances by MAJOR. and Alex Isley, with DJ Aktive on the decks, set the tone for a celebration that was as soulful as it was inspiring.
Highlighting the spirit of community, journalist Mimi Brown introduced her docuseries To Altadena, With Love, shining a light on families affected by the Eaton fires — including the Mitchells and the Taylors — who were present and honored during the brunch.

But the heart of the morning was all about recognizing trailblazers whose impact cuts across media, music, politics, and entertainment.
This year’s honorees included:
• Larry Wilmore took home the ICON Award for a career that’s changed the game in comedy and TV storytelling.
• Keke Palmer, awarded the INNOVATOR Award, continues to defy labels and lead with authenticity and versatility.
• Kandi Burruss received the TRAILBLAZER Award, cementing her place as a music legend, TV star, and business powerhouse.
• Joy-Ann Reid earned the MEDIA Award for her fearless reporting and influential voice in political journalism.
• Tasha Smith picked up the TV/FILM Award for directing and acting that uplifts real, raw Black stories in Hollywood.
• Tina Davis, honored with the MUSIC Award, has shaped some of the biggest names in the business through her unmatched A&R legacy.
• Kimberly A. Blackwell was presented with the BUSINESS Award for her dynamic leadership and cultural influence in corporate America.

The crowd was a who’s who of cultural impact: Andra Day, Angela Rye, Robin Thede, Mona Scott-Young, Tameka “Tiny” Harris, Da Brat and Jesseca Dupart, Kash Doll, Vic Mensa, Pinky Cole, Keri Hilson, Wood Harris, KiKi Layne, and dozens more came through to witness and uplift.

Culture Creators CEO Joi Brown summed it up best: this brunch isn’t just about recognition — it’s a statement. A declaration that Black stories, achievements, and legacies deserve their place in the spotlight.

Once again, Culture Creators delivered more than a brunch. It delivered a message: the future of the culture is here, and it’s unstoppable.