Power of Women: A Night Where Stars and Executives Unite for Philanthropy

The Glittering Gathering

When I stepped into the Beverly Hills Hotel for Variety's Power of Women event, I wasn't just attending a gala—I was witnessing the convergence of entertainment royalty and industry influence. The air buzzed with energy as A-list stars like Stassi Schroeder and Paige DeSorbo mingled with powerhouse executives from Disney, Netflix, Amazon, and more.

"This isn't just about glamour," said one executive who preferred to remain anonymous. "It's about amplifying the voices that have shaped our industry and using them for good."

The evening was hosted by comedian Iliza Shlesinger, whose sharp wit and genuine enthusiasm perfectly encapsulated the spirit of the night. She effortlessly transitioned from emceeing the cocktail hour to highlighting the remarkable achievements of the honorees: Jennifer Hudson, Pearlena Igbokwe, Melissa McCarthy, and Sharon Stone.

A Night of Recognition and Impact

The real magic happened not in the spotlight of the ballroom but in the quiet conversations between industry leaders and celebrities who have made their mark both on screen and off. Karen Pittman, Courtney Kemp, and Channing Dungey—three powerful women in television—shared stories of how they've used their platforms to champion diversity and inclusion.

As I walked through the crowd, I spotted Ayo Davis, president of Disney Kids & Family, engaging in deep conversation with a young producer about her journey in the industry. Later, I watched Aline Brosh McKenna—screenwriter of The Devil Wears Prada—share her insights on creating complex female characters that resonate across generations.

Empowerment Beyond the Spotlight

What struck me most was how these women didn't just celebrate their own achievements—they used the event to spotlight others. In a room full of 300+ industry professionals, every conversation seemed to carry a deeper meaning. It wasn't just about who was there; it was about why they were there.

The night also highlighted how philanthropy has become an integral part of the entertainment world. As I spoke with Dea Lawrence and Ryan Pauley, co-presidents of Variety, they emphasized how crucial it is for media leaders to use their influence for social good.

"We're not just reporting on what's happening in entertainment—we're shaping it," said Lawrence, her voice filled with conviction.

Even the most casual observers of the event couldn't miss the sense of shared purpose that permeated the entire night. From the tech moguls to the film stars, everyone seemed united by a common belief: that entertainment can be a force for change.

The Women Who Shape Our Industry

At the heart of this celebration were several remarkable women whose influence spans across multiple sectors. Take, for instance, Yvett Merino, a producer at Disney Animation Studios, who was there alongside Cathleen Taff, president of entertainment studios and consumer products for Walt Disney Studios.

These two women are responsible for bringing beloved animated stories to life, but their impact extends far beyond the screen. Through initiatives focused on educational outreach and cultural representation, they've made sure that Disney's storytelling continues to evolve with the times.

In a similar vein, the presence of executives like Debra OConnell, who chairs Disney Entertainment Television, and Sylvia Dong, executive VP at Disney, reminded me of how crucial it is for leadership to be diverse and inclusive. Their voices, both on screen and in boardrooms, continue to reshape what we see in mainstream media.

From Stars to Strategists

One thing became clear as I navigated the evening: this wasn't just a party—it was a masterclass in how storytelling can be used for empowerment. When I caught up with Tracey Pakosta and Starr Silver-Baker from Netflix, they spoke passionately about the importance of creating content that reflects real-life experiences.

"We're not just telling stories—we're creating opportunities," said Pakosta. "Our goal is to ensure that every voice gets heard, especially those that have been historically underrepresented."

The evening also showcased the power of collaboration between different industries. From entertainment executives like Jennifer Dodge from Paramount Animation to tech leaders like Shannon Mattingly from Meta, it was clear that the future of storytelling depends on breaking down silos.

Looking Forward

As I left the Beverly Hills Hotel that evening, I reflected on how this event perfectly embodied the essence of Variety's mission. It wasn't just about celebrating the women who have shaped our industry—it was about acknowledging their role in shaping a better future for all.

The Power of Women event reminded us that true empowerment isn't just about achieving success; it's about lifting others up along the way. In a world where so much attention is focused on individual achievement, this night served as a powerful reminder of the collective strength that comes from working together toward common goals.

As I walked through the bustling streets of Beverly Hills, my mind was already racing ahead to next year's event, wondering which new voices would join this growing chorus of empowerment. After all, when you're surrounded by women who've changed the game, the only question is: what will they do next?