Black Women in Music Dinner: A Night of Power, Purpose & Legacy
On June 3, 2025, the inaugural Black Women in Music Dinner, hosted by the Connie Orlando Foundation at the Audrey Irmas Pavilion in Los Angeles, brought together trailblazers, tastemakers, and cultural icons for an unforgettable evening celebrating Black women’s indelible impact on the music industry.
The event honored four phenomenal women:
- Ciara – Avant-Garde
- June Ambrose – Guardian of Vision
- Sylvia Rhone – Vanguard
- Phylicia Fant – New Guard
Each honoree has significantly shaped the cultural landscape, and their recognition underscored the night’s theme of celebrating power, purpose, and legacy.
Ciara and Daughter Sienna: A Stylish Mother-Daughter Duo
Ciara, honored with the Avant-Garde award, graced the event alongside her 8-year-old daughter, Sienna Princess Wilson. The duo captivated attendees in matching monochromatic black-and-white pantsuits, exuding elegance and unity. Sienna confidently posed solo on the red carpet, showcasing her budding star quality.
During her acceptance speech, Ciara brought Sienna on stage, creating a heartwarming moment that highlighted the importance of legacy and the next generation. Sienna praised her mother, saying, “She’s very sweet, very funny, and very fun,” reflecting the deep bond they share. people.com
June Ambrose: Fashioning the Future
Renowned stylist and creative director June Ambrose, honored as the Guardian of Vision, attended the event in a stunning ensemble by Bibhu Mohapatra. Known for her transformative work in fashion and music, Ambrose’s presence underscored her role in shaping visual narratives that define generations.
Her choice of attire—a testament to her impeccable taste—highlighted the intersection of fashion and cultural expression, reinforcing her status as a visionary in the industry.
Niecy Nash: Elegance with Purpose
Actress and comedian Niecy Nash, a beacon of grace and strength, attended the dinner wearing a sophisticated outfit by Andrew Gn. Her ensemble combined classic elegance with modern flair, embodying the spirit of the evening.
Nash’s presence at the event celebrated her contributions to entertainment and her advocacy for Black women’s empowerment, aligning seamlessly with the foundation’s mission.
A Night to Remember
The Black Women in Music Dinner was more than an awards ceremony; it was a gathering of minds and hearts dedicated to honoring the past, celebrating the present, and inspiring the future. The event also served as a fundraiser supporting breast cancer awareness and research, emphasizing the foundation’s commitment to holistic community upliftment.
Connie Orlando, the foundation’s namesake, expressed her vision: “Black women in music continue to be a transcendent and driving force of creative expression, shaping the musical landscape and enriching diverse cultures worldwide. Their contributions are not just transformative; they are the heartbeat of innovation and culture.”
As the evening concluded, attendees left inspired, reminded of the power of Black women in music and the enduring legacy they continue to build.
And Now… The BlkCosmo Fashion watch:
Black Cosmopolitans, when style meets purpose, you get moments like this. The Black Women in Music event—presented in support of the Connie Orlando Foundation—was more than just a celebration. It was a tribute to the beauty, brilliance, and influence of Black women in the music industry. And leading the charge were three powerhouse women who brought the glam and the message: Muni Long, June Ambrose, and Niecy Nash.
Let’s start with Muni Long.
The Grammy-winning singer and songwriter showed up in a flawless look by Hanifa, a Black-owned brand known for making women feel like royalty. Her appearance was not only a fashion statement but also a reflection of her roots in R&B and hip-hop—genres shaped by Black women yet too often gatekept. By wearing Hanifa, Muni brought visibility to both Black designers and the mission of the Connie Orlando Foundation: to uplift and empower Black women in music, on and off the stage.
Fashion designer June Ambrose followed suit in a stunning ensemble by Bibhu Mohapatra, a name synonymous with modern elegance. But Ambrose didn’t just come dressed to impress—she came to represent. As one of the most influential stylists and creatives in hip-hop culture, June’s presence was a full-circle moment. Her outfit embodied the very intersection of style and cultural advocacy that she’s been pioneering for decades. In a room filled with industry legends, her look reminded us that fashion is a language—and she speaks it fluently.
And then came Niecy Nash, who gave red carpet royalty in a look by Andrew Gn. Captured by Getty and shared widely by her fanbase, Niecy’s appearance reminded everyone why she’s a force. With her infectious smile and commanding aura, she brought warmth and confidence to the room. Niecy isn’t just about fashion; she’s about impact. Known for using her platform to elevate underrepresented voices, her attendance solidified the evening as a gathering of women who walk the walk—stylishly, of course.
While each of these women wore vastly different looks, their intention was unified: show up for Black women in music. From Hanifa’s bold silhouettes to Bibhu Mohapatra’s intricate detailing and Andrew Gn’s refined drama, these designers helped tell a story—one of power, legacy, and ongoing progress.
The Connie Orlando Foundation has long worked to spotlight the contributions of Black women behind the scenes and in front of the mic. This event brought that mission to life with elegance and intention. And for BlkCosmo readers who know that real style isn’t just about clothing—it’s about culture—this night was everything.
What we witnessed wasn’t just fashion. It was fashion with meaning.
From Muni Long’s vocal soul to June Ambrose’s visionary artistry to Niecy Nash’s joyful presence, these queens reminded us that Black women in music don’t just participate—they define the genre. And when they show up, the whole room shifts.
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Disclaimer:
For Education and discussion purposes. Please note no copyright infringement is intended, was recorded on BlkCosmo’s own equipment, and we do not own nor claim to own any of the original recordings used in this video and intend to use this as ‘fair use’.
