Hip-hop superstar Megan Thee Stallion brings star power and purpose to New York City this July. Her Pete & Thomas Foundation will host its first-ever black-tie gala at Gotham Hall on July 16. The event promises to celebrate emerging trailblazers and influential changemakers in the Black community.
The star-studded guest list includes acclaimed actress Taraji P. Henson, singer Muni Long, and DJ D-Nice. This gathering proves that Megan continues using her cultural influence to uplift and inspire others. Moreover, the gala represents a significant milestone for the foundation’s growing philanthropic impact.
Pete & Thomas Foundation Honors Two Powerful Changemakers
The foundation will recognize two remarkable women at the upcoming gala. LaTosha Brown, founder of the Southern Black Girls & Women’s Consortium (SBGWC), represents decades of dedicated activism. Additionally, 13-year-old Mila Henry, the inspiring force behind MH Boxes, showcases the next generation of leadership.
Henry launched her nonprofit in January 2024 when she was just 12 years old. She received a microgrant from the Pete & Thomas Foundation and SBGWC to start her mission. Her organization creates care packages filled with journals, affirmations, and self-care tools for young Black girls.
The connection between these two honorees demonstrates the foundation’s commitment to supporting Black women across generations. Both women embody the spirit of radical possibility that drives the foundation’s work. Their partnership shows how investing in Black girls creates lasting change.
Entertainment and Celebrity Support Drive Gala Success
Taraji P. Henson will serve as the evening’s host, bringing her dynamic presence to the event. Meanwhile, Muni Long and DJ D-Nice will provide entertainment for guests and luminaries attending the gala. This celebrity involvement helps amplify the foundation’s message and mission.
Ticket sales and package purchases directly support the foundation’s groundbreaking initiatives. The funds benefit programs in education, housing, and health and wellness for underserved communities. Therefore, each ticket purchase contributes to meaningful change in vulnerable communities.
The entertainment lineup reflects Megan’s ability to bring together influential figures for a common cause. These partnerships demonstrate how celebrity influence can drive real social impact. Furthermore, the star power helps attract attention to important issues affecting Black women and girls.
Foundation’s Mission Honors Late Parents’ Legacy
Megan established the Pete & Thomas Foundation in 2022 to honor her late parents. Her mother, Holly Thomas, and father, Joseph Pete, inspired the foundation’s name and mission. The organization has rapidly become a philanthropic powerhouse with clear goals.
The foundation focuses on supporting Black girls and women in launching entrepreneurial ventures. It also assists with creative projects and community-centered ideas. According to the foundation’s website, it provides resources to create meaningful and positive change worldwide.
The foundation’s programs concentrate on education, housing, health and wellness, and community goodwill. These areas reflect the comprehensive approach needed to address systemic challenges. Additionally, the foundation serves communities in Houston, Texas, and across the globe.
Southern Black Girls & Women’s Consortium Creates Lasting Impact
LaTosha Brown’s Southern Black Girls & Women’s Consortium has achieved remarkable success since its founding. The organization focuses on empowering Black women and girls in the South through philanthropy and activism. So far, it has awarded $10.2 million to 220 projects across 13 Southern states.
Chanceé Lundy, executive director of SBGWC, praised the partnership with Brown and the foundation. “LaTosha embodies the spirit of radical possibility that the Pete & Thomas Foundation celebrates,” Lundy explained. She emphasized their shared commitment to uplifting Black women and girls.
Brown’s work extends beyond the consortium as co-founder of Black Voters Matter. Her activism demonstrates the interconnected nature of social justice work. Therefore, her recognition at the gala highlights the importance of multi-faceted approaches to change.
Young Activist Mila Henry Inspires Mental Health Movement
Mila Henry’s MH Boxes nonprofit addresses critical mental health needs among Black girls. The organization creates curated toolkits that promote self-care, resilience, and open dialogue. Henry’s work fills a crucial gap in mental health resources for young Black girls.
The 13-year-old founder turned her vision into a healing movement with compassion and creativity. She meets the needs of her peers through thoughtfully designed care packages. Her approach demonstrates how young people can create meaningful solutions to community problems.
Brown praised Henry’s work, noting how she exemplifies why investing in Black girls’ dreams matters. “She turned her vision into a healing movement,” Brown observed. This recognition shows how the foundation supports innovation across age groups.
Gala Represents Growing Philanthropic Movement
The inaugural gala marks a significant moment for celebrity-driven philanthropy. Megan’s foundation joins a growing movement of entertainers using their platforms for social good. The event demonstrates how star power can drive attention to important causes.
The foundation’s rapid growth since 2022 shows the impact of focused philanthropic efforts. By concentrating on specific communities and issues, the organization creates measurable change. Additionally, the foundation’s approach proves that targeted giving produces better results.
The July 16 event will set the tone for future foundation activities. Success at this gala could inspire similar events and partnerships. Furthermore, the foundation’s model may influence other celebrities to create focused philanthropic initiatives.
