The SuperMom Mission held its inaugural gala on March 8 in Brooklyn, celebrating and honoring Black mothers who balance career success with motherhood. Founded by Shaquasia ‘Quay’ Brooks in 2023, the event recognized five powerhouse moms for their achievements and dedication to both their families and communities.
Hot 97’s TT Torrez hosted the evening that honored HelloBeautiful’s Shamika Sanders, DMX’s ex-wife Tashera Simmons, author Christina Wilds, model Bre Scullark, and entrepreneur Avery J. Watson. Each honoree received personalized awards reflecting their unique journeys and impacts as mothers.
Black Motherhood Celebrated at Brooklyn Gala Event
“SuperMom Mission has given back to me in so many ways,” said founder Quay Brooks during the celebration. “The messages I receive from moms expressing how much our support has impacted them remind me why I do this. It’s humbling and fulfilling to know that something I created is truly making a difference.”
Brooks carefully selected each honoree with intention. “I was very intentional,” she explained. “Choosing moms that I admire, moms that inspire me, and moms whose journeys I deeply respect. Every woman honored is someone I’ve looked at and thought, ‘Wow, she’s amazing.'”
Despite limited resources, Brooks successfully organized the entire event with help from just one friend, Tiffany. “Organizing the gala was both challenging and rewarding, especially because I don’t have a big team—it’s literally just me. Every detail required so much effort, but seeing it all come together made it worth it.”
HelloBeautiful’s Shamika Sanders Reflects on Motherhood Honor
For HelloBeautiful’s Shamika Sanders, being recognized as a “super mom” offered a rare opportunity for reflection. “Being honored for anything is rare for me, I’m usually on the other side of the microphone,” Sanders shared. “It’s even rarer for me to call myself a super mom.”
Sanders resonated with the challenges that all mothers face. “Let’s face it, most of us moms are just trying to make it through the day. It surely doesn’t feel super when you’re in the middle of a breakdown and your child asks you for a snack.”
The evening allowed Sanders and fellow honorees to acknowledge their common experiences. “If there’s one thing I deduced from all the women’s acceptance speeches, it’s that I am not alone when it comes to dealing with mom guilt, the challenge of being selfless, and the power of your village.”
SuperMom Mission Continues to Support Black Mothers
Founded in 2023, SuperMom Mission focuses on providing resources, community, and recognition for Black mothers. The organization has quickly grown from Brooks’ personal vision into a meaningful support system for mothers across Brooklyn and beyond.
The gala represents just one facet of the organization’s work. Throughout the year, SuperMom Mission offers various programs designed to address the unique challenges faced by Black mothers, from practical support to emotional resources and community building.
Brooks emphasized how the mission has transformed her own life and purpose. “It’s strengthened my sense of purpose—not just as a mother, but as a woman determined to uplift others. It’s been a journey of learning, growth, and so much love.”
Honorees Receive Curated Gift Packages from Black-Owned Businesses
The celebration extended beyond the ceremony itself. Honorees received thoughtfully curated swag bags filled with products from several Black-owned businesses, highlighting Brooks’ commitment to supporting the broader community.
Gift bags included items from Dr. Bobbi’s Big Mouth Toothbrush, Black Girl Sunscreen, and DollHouse Cosmetics. Personalized jello shot boxes by Koffis Jello Bar added a festive touch to the evening’s offerings.
Sanders particularly appreciated the encased floral arrangement by Your Story Is Our Story and the SuperMom plaque, which now adorns her dresser. These personalized keepsakes serve as daily reminders of the recognition these mothers received for their ongoing dedication.
Celebrating Motherhood Beyond the Challenges
The gala created a space for these accomplished women to be celebrated specifically for their motherhood journeys. This recognition comes at a time when many mothers struggle with burnout and lack of acknowledgment for their daily sacrifices.
For one evening, honorees like Simmons, Wilds, Scullark, Watson, and Sanders could set aside the “mom guilt” they discussed in their speeches. Instead, they embraced being called “super” for the work they do every day without recognition.
Through events like this gala, SuperMom Mission aims to change the narrative around motherhood in the Black community. By highlighting these women’s stories, Brooks creates visibility for the often invisible labor of mothering while building community among those who understand the journey.
