MC Lyte @mclyte at the Black Excellence Brunch hosted by Trell Thomas

Essence Festival of Culture 2026 | Interviews, Culture, Community

Thank you to all the amazing talent that came through the press rooms. The ESSENCE Festival of Culture Presented by Coca Cola, is the nation's largest celebration of Black culture, bringing together music, entertainment, wellness, business, fashion, beauty, and community in the heart of New Orleans. More than a festival, it's a cultural homecoming where artists, entrepreneurs, thought leaders, and changemakers come together to celebrate Black excellence through powerful conversations, unforgettable performances, and meaningful connections. (essence.com

Married to Medicine to the ESSENCE Festival stage, Dr. Mimi Sanders Interview

From Married to Medicine to the ESSENCE Festival stage, Dr. Mimi Sanders continues to use her voice to advocate for mental health-especially within the Black community. It was a pleasure connecting with Dr. Mimi and her husband Steve Sanders, at #ESSENCEFest and hearing her lead such an impactful conversation on Black women's mental health, healing, and advocacy. She reminded us that wellness isn't just about getting through the day-it's about intentionally caring for ourselves. Instagram @drmimi.care

Five Film Fridays, Create The Writers Room LA Red Carpet

FIVE FILM FRIDAYS, powered by Create The Writers Room, is more than a program-it's a launchpad for the next generation of filmmakers. Biannually, FIVE standout short films are handpicked by industry insiders and screened directly for our network of studio and production partners, creating real momentum beyond the screen. Founded by actor, director, writer, producer, and author R.D. Castleberry. SEE YOU SOON Director/Writer: Jay Pendarvis Jr.Starring: Asante Blackk, Isaiah John HALFRICAN Vic Mensa BUKRA Director/Writer: Alex Aljouni MIRAGE Director: Jhanvi Motla BUBBLE POP Director/Writer: Aeryn Michelle WilliamsStarring: Emmy Raver-Lampman SINCERELY BRAD Director/Writer: Isaac YowmanStarring: Patrick Walker, Cynthia Carmona, Carl Anthony Payne II

Kendra G attends The Black Excellence Brunch hosted by Trell Thomas during Essencefest 2026

The Black Excellence Brunch curated Trell Thomas honored the legendary Ms. Patti LaBelle during this year's 2026 Essencefest in New Orleans. The event continues to highlight and honor those creatives that have made footprints in our lives. Instagram @blackexcellencebrunch @trellworld @kendragmedia

Beyond The Gates, Colby Muhammad & Brandon Claybon celebrant the Black Excellence Brunch by Trell Thomas

The Black Excellence Brunch curated Trell Thomas honored the legendary Ms. Patti LaBelle during this year’s 2026 Essencefest in New Orleans. The event continues to highlight and honor those creatives that have made footprints in our lives. Instagram @blackexcellencebrunch @trellworld @Beyondthegatescbs