90's Nostalgia Commemorative Issue April 2017 | Page 7

MADEXXXX MADEUS Enchanted Closet representatives accept check for $1,000 towards Enchanted Closet. Photo Credit: Justin Stafford James Brown‘s daughter, Dr. Yamma Brown, Former “Atlanta Exes” star Monyetta Shaw, “Social Butterfly” Kim- berly Byer-Clark and Georgia Power executive and arts supporter Charmaine Ward. story. “I’m really excited that BMW decided to launch the series in Atlanta for 2017,” she began. She invited each honoree to accept their award and share words of empowerment. Before the honorees accept- ed their awards, dozens of guests participated in the “Drive 4 A Cause” portion of the afternoon, where BMW showed off their latest BMW 2, 3, 4 and 5 series models. For each guest who took a test-drive, the company made a donation to En- chanted Closet, a 501 c3 that provides tools for enhanc- ing the self-awareness, self esteem, self sufficiency of underserved girls. Lalohni Campbell kicked things off empowering the audience and reflecting, “I learned early on that it’s OK to be a dreamer. But, you have to be a dreamer with a shovel in your hand.” Upbeat R&B and pop tracks set the mood for the spirited event as guests sipped on mimosas and nibbled on STK’s coveted brunch bites. BMW even gave guests a special experience in which they could ride an engine-red motorcycle with virtual reality headsets. Simone Harrison discussed women in executive positions and the importance of women sponsors and supporters in corporate America. Deanna Hamilton gathered the crowd’s attention so each honoree could share their heartfelt, empowering The series underscores BMW’s commitment to celebrating diversity in professional industries and local communities.” Kevin Williams Kevin Williams, head of multicultural marketing at BMW of North America, presented Enchanted Closet with a check for $1,000. Enchanted Closet CEO, Bonita Johnson, accepted the donation, sharing an inspiring message and information on its prom programs. Johns encouraged the audience to support the organization’s 15th Annual Prom Dress Giveaway on March 14 as wardrobe stylists. Sojourner Grimmett spoke about how social media plays an important role in spreading a message globally and how people can continuously use it to make their voice heard. Kris Williams, publisher of MADE Magazine, closed the program out by challenging the group to pay it forward in their local and global communities. Check out the video for more: Sonya Halpern professed her love for arts education and urged the crowd to partici- pate in their local community forums. Before the buzz of the evening came to a close, made-magazine.com | CLICK TO SEE MORE OF THE EVENT 7