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WASHINGTON, D.C., April 3, 2025 — On Thursday, March 27, 2025, the U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. (USBC) hosted a sold-out celebration of excellence, leadership, and sisterhood during the 2025 Power 50 Women of Influence Luncheon, presented by American Airlines. Held at the elegant Salamander Hotel in Washington, D.C., this year’s theme — “The Art of Influence” — recognized women who have mastered the power of impact across industries.
The unforgettable afternoon was expertly guided by our Mistress of Ceremonies, Laura Coates, acclaimed host of CNN’s Laura Coates Live. Guests were treated to an exquisite culinary journey curated by Chef Tiffany Derry, American Airlines DFW Flagship® Lounge Partner and chef/owner of Roots Southern Table and Radici Wood Fired Grill.
Among the afternoon’s distinguished honorees was Jotaka Eaddy, Founder & CEO of Full Circle Strategies and Win with Black Women–who was named the 2025 Woman of the Year for her visionary leadership, strategic impact, and unwavering commitment to equity and justice.
The event also celebrated the legendary Janice Bryant Howroyd, Founder & CEO of The ActOne Group, who was honored as the 2025 Global Trailblazer of the Year. As the first African-American woman to build and own a billion-dollar company, Howroyd stands as a towering figure in business — blazing a path for generations of women to follow.
“This event is more than a celebration — it’s a movement,” said Ron Busby Sr., President & CEO of the U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. “These women are rewriting the rules, breaking barriers, and lifting communities as they rise. The Power 50 Women of Influence Luncheon is one of USBC’s premier fundraisers — and a vital part of our mission to drive economic empowerment for Black businesses nationwide.”
Additional highlights included a powerful address from 2025 Power 50 honoree Congresswoman Yvette Clarke, who spoke passionately about the importance of legacy, leadership, and lifting as we climb. Michele Ghee, Power 50 alum and Chief Content Officer at Essence Media, delivered heartfelt remarks on the strength of sisterhood and the importance of being able to pivot with purpose. Nate Gatten, Executive Vice President of American Eagle, Corporate Real Estate, and Government Affairs at American Airlines, offered inspiring words on the company’s unwavering commitment to championing women in leadership, especially during Women’s History Month.
The program overflowed with unforgettable moments
Nate Gatten, EVP of American Eagle, Corporate Real Estate, and Government Affairs at American Airlines, affirmed the airline’s commitment to elevating women in leadership during Women’s History Month and beyond.
Congresswoman Yvette Clarke, a 2025 Power 50 honoree, delivered an impassioned speech on legacy, leadership, and lifting others as we climb.
Michele Ghee, Power 50 alum and Chief Content Officer at Essence Media, inspired the crowd with a powerful message on the importance of sisterhood, grace, and embracing the pivot.
One of the day’s most powerful moments was the intimate armchair conversation between Laura Coates and Jotaka Eaddy—a vulnerable and victorious exchange that explored what it means to “own your power,” build coalitions with intention, and lead with strategy and authenticity.
Sponsors included Title Partner American Airlines, Gold Partner Walmart, and Official Toast Partner IBest Wines, whose red and white wine blends added a celebratory sparkle to the afternoon.
The U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. invites all who believe in advancing Black women in business and leadership to support our work. To donate, visit: https://tinyurl.com/USBCPower50.
To become a member and join the movement to strengthen the Black business ecosystem, visit us- blackchambers.org.
About U.S. Black Chambers, Inc.:
The U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. (USBC) provides committed, visionary leadership and advocacy in the realization of economic empowerment. Through the creation of resources and initiatives, we support a network of African American Chambers of Commerce and business organizations in their work of developing and growing Black enterprises. Learn more at usblackchambers.org.
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