Created in 1994, in honor of Women’s History Month, Women’s Empowerment was designed to enhance the lives of African American women by addressing issues that specifically impact their “health, hearts and pocketbooks.” Throughout the day, this expo-styled event offers seminars, workshops, demonstrations, sampling, and shopping.

Over the past 16 years we have featured many noted personalities from all walks of life. From entertainers to politicians, we have featured some of the world’s most prominent female leaders of our time.

1995 Dr. Joyceyln Elders former U.S. Surgeon General	1996 Susan L. Taylor former editor-in-chief of Essence Magazine	1997 Rolanda Watts N. C. native and former host of ROLANDA!	1998 Phylisha Rashad TV, Film, and Stage actress
1999 Iyanla Vanzant Author and Television Personality	2000 Debbie Allen noted actress and choreographer	2001 Queen Latifah hip hop musician and talk show host	2002 Angela Bassett award-winning actress
2003 Susan Taylor former editor-in-chief of Essence Magazine	2004 Vivica A. Fox Actress	2005 Star Jones Noted Lawyer and TV Personality	2006 Robin Roberts Co-Host of ABC’s Good Morning America
2007 Natalie Cole Singer/Song Writer	2008 Pattie LaBelle Singer/Song Writer, Actress	2009 Mary J. Blige Singer/Song Writer, Actress