On Friday, November 21st, stars gathered at The Beverly Hilton. The night focused on celebrating women in entertainment. Femme It Forward’s 4th Annual Give Her FlowHERS Awards Gala brought energy and inspiration to everyone present.
Heather Lowery, President & CEO of Femme It Forward, hosted the event. Miatta Johnson and Massah David, from MVD, Inc., served as executive producers. They brought together top creators, leaders, and artists to honor women who shape culture.
Sway’s Universe covered the gala with Khrissy B reporting from the red carpet with images captured by Brandon Dixon. The event honored many talented women, such as Ciara, Jhené Aiko, Kehlani, Normani, Mariah The Scientist, Ravyn Lenae, and Olandria Carthen. Each woman was not only recognized but truly celebrated for her achievements.
The night featured live performances. Jordan Ward, FLO, and Goapele took the stage and impressed the audience. Along with music and awards, the gala shined a light on Next Gem Femme. This important mentorship program matches new talent with leading women executives. It helps women of color find new career opportunities.












Honorees and Memorable Moments
Each honoree shared personal stories and heartfelt speeches. Their words inspired everyone watching.




A Mother’s Influence
The Queens Raising Queens Award went to Nikki Taylor, presented by her daughter, Teyana Taylor. This award celebrates mothers who lift up the next generation. Teyana’s words showed deep love and gratitude for her mom.

Celebrating a True Legend
Ciara received The Muse Award from Victoria Monét. This honor goes to women whose work inspires people both now and in the future.

The Strength of Family
Jhené Aiko was given The Glow Getter Award. Her family presented the award, showing strong support and love. Jhené thanked her loved ones for helping her through hard times.
Embracing Self-Love
Olandria Carthen earned The Self-Love Award, presented by her mother, Felicia. Olandria dedicated the award to all women who have doubted their worth. Her message encouraged self-acceptance and growth.
Rising to the Top
Mariah The Scientist was honored with The Bloom Award. Her sister, Morgan Buckles, presented it. The award recognizes new artists who have grown and blossomed in their careers.
Turning Challenges into Art
Goapele honored fellow Oakland native Kehlani with The Alchemist Award. This award celebrates women who turn hard times into powerful stories. Kehlani’s speech was honest, even starting with a light-hearted joke.
Inspiring Generation Z
Salem Mitchell gave the Fem Z Award to her friend, Ravyn Lenae. The award recognizes Gen Z artists who lift their peers and set new trends.
Leading with Purpose
Ryan Destiny presented The Femme It Forward Award to her friend, Normani. This honor goes to women who show strong, positive leadership in their fields and communities.

Honoring Mentors and Leaders
Gail Mitchell, a leader at Billboard, received The Mentor Excellence Award. She is known for helping the next generation break into the industry.
Sylvia Rhone was honored with the first Sylvia Rhone Legacy Award, newly named for her. Sylvia’s leadership and vision have opened doors for many women. She shared a message of confidence, saying, “The ROI of Black women is infinite.”
Looking Ahead
The 4th Annual Give Her FlowHERS Gala was more than an award show. It created a space where Black women and women of color took center stage.
The event showed what Femme It Forward stands for: a community that celebrates, teaches, and supports women. To end the night, Heather Lowery reminded everyone, “Your story is sacred; your roots are strong; your flower will bloom in its own divine timing.”
The gala made a lasting point: when you give women their flowers, they do more than bloom. They create gardens where others can grow, too.
