The LadyLike Foundation hosted its dazzling 16th Annual Women of Excellence Awards Luncheon on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at the iconic Beverly Hilton Hotel – International Ballroom, drawing more than 2,000 guests from across Los Angeles and beyond. The sold-out celebration honored phenomenal women, showcased the brilliance of future female leaders, and marked a historic milestone—the grand opening of the foundation’s brand-new headquarters in the heart of Los Angeles’ Crenshaw District.
This year’s event shimmered with energy, elegance, and heartfelt moments, as supporters gathered to uplift the foundation’s mission to mentor, educate, and empower inner-city girls to thrive and lead. Hosted with poise and charm, the red carpet reception began at 10:00 a.m., followed by a captivating luncheon and awards ceremony from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
A Visionary Leader in Pink
Founder and CEO Leah Cher Pump stole the spotlight in a radiant pink designer gown, delivering an emotionally stirring message about the power of legacy, community, and faith. As she stood before a crowd of supporters and changemakers, Pump shared the joy of opening the LadyLike Foundation’s first permanent headquarters at 4715 Crenshaw Boulevard—a beacon of hope and opportunity in the Park Heights community, which is part of Los Angeles’ District 8.
Pump’s story, deeply rooted in faith and education, began when she served as an elementary school teacher for nine years and a principal for two. Her journey took a pivotal turn in 2004 when her pastor, Dr. R.A. Williams Jr., appointed her as director of the Youth and Young Adult Ministry at McCoy Memorial Baptist Church. There, she launched the first “LadyLike” class to help young women embrace virtue, purpose, and leadership through spiritual growth.
Honoring Women Who Inspire
This year’s Women of Excellence honorees were trailblazers in business, sports, philanthropy, and media, each of them representing the foundation’s core values of excellence, strength, and purpose. The 2025 honorees included:
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Constance Schwartz-Morini – Co-Founder and CEO of SMAC Entertainment, a business incubator and Emmy-nominated production company.
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Allyson Felix – Olympic gold medalist and founder of Saysh, a female-focused lifestyle brand.
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Monique Rodriguez – Visionary Founder and CEO of Mielle Organics, a leader in natural hair care.
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Patricia Weston – Philanthropist and community advocate with a deep commitment to service.
Their powerful acceptance speeches and humble reflections left an indelible mark on everyone in the ballroom.
A Fashionable Future: The Youth Runway Show
A cherished tradition at the luncheon, the LadyLike Foundation Youth Fashion Show lit up the stage as girls aged six to twenty-one walked the runway with confidence and poise. The show was more than a fashion display—it was a celebration of individuality, creativity, and the blossoming of tomorrow’s leaders.
Seven standout young women were awarded college scholarships, recognized not only for their academic excellence but also for their community engagement and character. Each scholarship recipient symbolized the foundation’s mission to uplift and equip young women with the tools to succeed.
Fundraising and Festivities
The afternoon was filled with engaging moments and interactive experiences. Comedian Chris Spencer led a spirited live auction, blending humor and heart to raise significant funds for the foundation’s year-round programs.
Guests also enjoyed:
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A beautifully curated lunch and gourmet cupcakes.
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Vibrant vendor booths with unique offerings and community resources.
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A gallery of past honorees, including Angela Bassett, Zendaya, Kelly Rowland, and Cookie Johnson.
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The opportunity to meet celebrity supporters such as Magic Johnson, Cedric the Entertainer, and Pauletta Washington.
All proceeds from the event will fund the LadyLike Foundation’s programs, including mentorship, leadership training, scholarships, community service, and performing arts initiatives for underserved girls.
A Global Impact Rooted in Local Love
Beyond Los Angeles, the LadyLike Foundation continues its international outreach, supporting Mountain High International School in Ghana and improving conditions at the Abosamso Orphanage in Obuasi. The foundation has helped build vital infrastructure and provides medical insurance and care for orphaned children.
To date, the foundation has awarded 85 college scholarships to inner-city girls maintaining a GPA of 3.5 or higher, many of whom continue volunteering with the foundation throughout their academic journey.
Moving Forward with Purpose
“This year marks a monumental chapter for the LadyLike Foundation,” said Leah Pump. “Our new headquarters will allow us to deepen our impact, inspire more young women, and build a stronger community for generations to come. I’m proud of the work we’ve done—and even more excited for what’s ahead.”
To learn more about the LadyLike Foundation or to support their mission through donations, visit the official website at www.theladylike.com. You can also contribute directly via their donation portal at ladylike-foundation.square.site.
